Energy efficient employment

The meaning of having ‘green hands’ is no longer what it used to be. We look at the jobs that helping create a greener and sustainable future.

word by sanelisiwe maliza

The slow demise of Eskom and the growing demand for renewable energy to, not only fill the gap but to create environmentally sustainable electricity supply, has created more opportunities and job roles in the industry. While many may assume that the job roles needed are technically inclined, a number of different and far ranging skill sets are needed in the sector to truly scale and grow the market. Here are seven jobs that are sought-after in renewable energy.

1. Engineers

Responsible for designing, organising and overseeing the construction and production of renewable energy products, engineers have an important role to play in the growth of the renewable energy sector, by designing the process and systems for hydroelectric dams or wind turbines implementation.

2. Construction Managers

With a growing number of wind to solar farms, more people are needed to maintain the development and management of that infrastructure. Construction managers would be expected to plan, manage and coordinate everything concerned with the construction and maintenance of buildings, systems and facilities.

3. Renewable Energy Sales Representatives

Selling will always be a very important part of any sector. As a renewable energy rep, you will be responsible to drive uptake of products in a competitive environment where all companies, from biofuel to solar panels, are trying to dominate the industry. The purpose of the sales representative is to sell the products to the identified target market.

4. Farmers

As one of the oldest professions, farmers, surprisingly, have a range of options in the green sector. Traditionally, farmers were most likely to produce fruits, vegetables and grains for

human consumption. In the new-energy sector, farmers will not just be supplying food to eat but for bioenergy as well. As an expanding sector, bioenergy will receive its supply of corn for corn ethanol from farmers. In the future, farm waste will also become a valuable resource and can be turned into biofuel.

5. Urban Planners

In overpopulated cities where space is becoming a challenge, urban planners will be responsible for finding sustainable plans and programs for the smarter use of land and physical facilities.

6. Solar panel installers

According to Business Insider, solar photovoltaic installers are expected to see a 104.9% job growth by 2026. As more people and companies go off the grid, this manual job will grow in importance and demand. Solar panel installers are responsible for assembling, installing and maintaining solar photovoltaic systems on roofs or other structures in compliance with site assessment and regulation.

7. Renewable Energy Consultants

Consultants work with clients to investigate and advise regarding the installation of renewable energy systems, with a particular focus on increasing efficiency and reducing cost while mitigating environmental impact. Renewable energy consultants also work for government agencies and renewable energy companies — such as solar or wind.

As climate change becomes a more pressing threat and load shedding remains a reality, there has never been a better time to consider a career in renewable energy. A range of higher education institutions offer short and long term tertiary qualifications around the green economy which could be the stepping stone you need to get into the industry.