Spotlight on… Renewable Energy

At a time when our energy systems have never felt more fractured and fragile, Earth Day 2025 is calling for a rapid transition to renewable energy sources.

Currently only about 30% of the world’s energy is generated from renewable sources, including solar, wind, hydro, bioenergy, and geothermal. Earth Day 2025 is urging policymakers and heads of industry to commit to triple the global generation of clean electricity by 2030.

These ambitious and much-needed targets will only increase demand for skilled technicians and engineers in renewable energy.

Weijun Zhu, WorldSkills Chief Expert for Renewable Energy, is in full support and reflects that these goals are vital to energy security. He says, “Earth is our common home, and renewable energy is the ’unifying force of humanity’.”

WorldSkills Competitors in Renewable Energy are trained and tested on how to operate, maintain, and improve a broad range of equipment that is used for collecting, generating, or distributing renewable power.

Weijun describes the skill competition as one of the most comprehensive in the WorldSkills suite, covering technologies from biomass and hydropower to geothermal systems. He says, “It’s a deep integration of disciplines: electrical, hydraulic, mechanical, control systems, software, and data analysis - all come together in one field.”

Thanks to the WorldSkills Occupational Standards and WorldSkills relationships with sector specialists, the skill competition is closely aligned to the needs of this fast-moving industry. Weijun says, “Our Test Projects are designed to help close the global talent gap identified by organizations like IRENA (International Renewable Energy Agency), which forecasts the need for 30 million renewable energy professionals by 2030.”

He explains, “It focuses on practical skills in areas like photovoltaic installation, wind power operation, and energy storage design. As well as meeting these customer-oriented demands, it equips young people with technical and life skills to address global challenges like climate change and energy security.”

WorldSkills Lyon 2024 saw an encouraging increase in Competitors. At only its second WorldSkills Competition, Renewable Energy attracted five young people from Brazil, China, India, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

Takumi Gunyasu brought home the gold medal for WorldSkills Japan. He believes Renewable Energy is both a solution and a responsibility. He says, “Power generation isn’t stable. Solar and wind depend on the environment and that means [we need] good design and good planning.”

Takumi reflects, “The field is challenging, but it’s essential. That’s why our generation must act. If we do it right, we reduce emissions, avoid energy conflicts, and help stabilize the planet.”

Amaresh Kumar Sahu represented WorldSkills India and won a bronze medal. He says he was drawn to the field by a passion for sustainability and innovation.

Amaresh says, “My skill allows me to contribute to industries, societies, and the environment, making a meaningful impact on the future of energy. By mastering renewable energy technologies, I am not only advancing my career but also playing a role in solving global sustainability challenges. Every project, installation, or innovation I work on contributes to a cleaner and more stable future for all.”

Danny McBean competed in Renewable Energy for WorldSkills UK and found the training rigorous and, at times, surprising. He recalls, “I had to learn to fly drones to inspect large solar farms and wind turbines. That’s something I never expected when I started.”

This Earth Day, these WorldSkills Champions and Experts are encouraging politicians, industry leaders, and educators to commit to Renewable Energy as a critical skill. Their message is simple: the planet’s future depends on the choices we make today.

Danny says, “Clean energy isn’t just an option, it’s a necessity. Investing in renewables today is investing in a better tomorrow.”

Amaresh also urges young people everywhere to take up the skill. He says, “Renewable Energy is the future, and young professionals have the power to drive this transformation. Keep learning, keep experimenting, and never stop pushing for a greener planet.”

Learn more about Renewable Energy and other WorldSkills skill competitions.