Balfour CEO warns of ‘critical skills challenge’ in offshore wind

Balfour Beatty’s CEO has raised concerns about urgent skills shortages facing the offshore wind sector. 

Posting on LinkedIn, Leo Quinn said more needs to be done to address the “critical skills challenge” in order to “upskill and attract the expert individuals needed to deliver offshore wind projects”.

Quinn added that the “lengthy and unpredictable planning and consenting process” should also be simplified. 

“If we can do this, we will deliver transformational offshore wind projects, as well as the grid and supporting infrastructure needed to bring offshore energy, onshore,” he said. 

Last year, a report published by the Offshore Wind Industry Council revealed that almost 70,000 additional jobs are needed across the sector by 2030 to support the upcoming pipeline of projects.

Echoing Quinn’s statement, the report called for a comprehensive strategy to tackle skills shortages in key areas, such as planning and consenting, engineering, and digital. 

Quinn comments follow a recent Balfour Beatty event which brought together industry leaders and minister for energy, Michael Shanks, to discuss the key issues impacting the sector.

During the event, Shanks “re-affirmed [the government’s] commitment to the energy market” and ensuring the industry is supported in the delivery of its plans.

“I look forward to hearing more from the government over the coming months as they clearly outline their plans for this market,” Quinn added.