How you can contribute to the energy transition with your work
The energy transition is one of the most important challenges of our time. But what exactly is the energy transition, why is the energy transition necessary and – perhaps even more importantly – how can you contribute to it with your work? In this blog you can read all about working in the energy transition, what jobs are available, why retraining sometimes helps but is not always necessary, and how your current experience can be surprisingly useful.
What is the energy transition?
The energy transition is the transition from fossil energy sources (such as oil, coal and gas) to sustainable, renewable energy sources such as solar, wind and hydropower. This transition is necessary to combat climate change, reduce CO2 emissions and make our energy supply future-proof.
Why is the energy transition necessary?
The consequences of climate change are becoming increasingly visible: extreme weather, rising sea levels and declining biodiversity. By switching to clean energy, we can limit this impact. In addition, the energy transition makes us less dependent on international energy suppliers, which is good for the stability and affordability of our energy.
What kind of work is there in the energy transition?
The energy transition requires people in all kinds of fields. Think of technical functions, but also communication, policy, IT and administration. Some examples of jobs in the energy transition are:
- Installation technician solar panels or heat pumps
- Project leader sustainable energy projects
- Advisor energy saving or sustainability
- Data analyst energy use and grid management
- Communications officer, Content Specialist, or Marketing Employee at a sustainable energy supplier
- HR advisor for companies in the energy transition
- Lawyer energy law or subsidies
- Researcher or policy advisor at a government agency
As you can see: you don't have to be a technical genius to find work in the energy transition.
Retraining? Sometimes necessary, but certainly not always
Many people think that you need a special sustainable education to be able to work in the energy transition. Good news: that is not always the case. Of course, there are positions that require technical knowledge or specific certificates, but there are just as many jobs where you can use your existing skills.
For example, do you work in communication, sales, administration, planning or HR? There is a good chance that your experience can be directly applied at a company that is active in the energy transition. However, it can be valuable to take a short course or to delve a little deeper into sustainable themes. Think of online modules or workshops on energy saving, the circular economy or the government's climate policy.
Retraining is therefore an option, not an obligation.
The future of work = sustainable work
The energy transition is not temporary - it is a structural change in our society. Jobs in this sector are future-proof and meaningful. You contribute directly to a more sustainable world and help find solutions to the climate problem.
Whether you are at the beginning of your career, considering a switch or want to make your work more meaningful: working in the energy transition is an opportunity to make an impact.
Do you want to get started and work in the energy transition sector?
Do you want to get started in the energy transition? Are you enthusiastic and do you want to get started in the energy transition? On Greenjobs.nl you will find sustainable vacancies at organizations that work every day on a cleaner future. From energy cooperatives and grid operators to sustainable consultancy firms and innovative scale-ups: there is plenty of work. For example, take a look at the jobs of these organizations:
- Jobs at Groendus
- Jobs at kWh People
- Jobs at Quatt
- Jobs at Vandebron
- Jobs and working at Op Naar Nul
Whether you have a technical background, are good with numbers, or are strong in communication or organization - your experience is valuable. Discover the vacancies, get inspired and take the first step towards a job with impact today and contribute to the energy transition.
