Energy & Utility Skills

The Low Carbon skills agenda is clearly a priority for the UK economy. It is a key part of the Government's strategy not only in meeting the UK and EU targets of 20% renewable energy by 2020, but also in supporting the economic recovery and creating the economy (and jobs) of the future.

There are many opinions on how this green agenda will impact on the economy particularly with predicted employment opportunities. In a recent House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee it was stated "The Government must establish a leader for the Green Skills agenda to deliver the skills needed for the low carbon transition."

The lack of a single authorative voice is further confused by the range of terminology used which, although having subtle differences, tends to be used interchangeably.

It is clear that a more coherent and collaborative approach is required to understand and deliver the skills required to enable the UK to capitalise upon these opportunities. For the purpose of this document Low Carbon skills will be used as a collective noun and will encompass green skills, renewable energy, low carbon and sustainability.

Purpose

The Group seeks to address the requirement raised by the Environmental Audit Committee and become the authoritative voice on strategic cross-cutting low carbon skills issues for Government and other stakeholders.

The Group will act as a catalyst for the actions required to deliver solutions that will ensure the UK has the skills they need now and in the future.

Key Accountabilities

1. To become an authoritative voice on Low Carbon Skills needs and issues:
i. Provide a reference point for liaising with Governments in a consistent and coherent way;
ii. Deliver timely communications to inform Governments and Supply Chain thinking;
iii. Provide a Group response to consultations and policies.

2. Develop a framework that facilitates SSC's working collaboratively to provide an integrated approach to delivering the Low Carbon Skills required:
i. Provide strategic direction and prioritise the delivery of solutions requiring national collaboration;
ii. Act as a catalyst for implementing solutions, accelerating actions required to support a 'rapid response' approach.

3. Agree and monitor cross-sector strategic work stream terms of reference for the delivery of agreed outcomes.

> Low Carbon Skills Steering Group Terms of Reference