Forecast: Estonian energy sector in dire need of young talent

TALLINN - The field of electrical engineering in Estonia faces serious challenges in terms of the demand for labor, with a forecast by the OSKA think-tank naming the high average age of employees and shortage of young specialists as the main concerns.

OSKA's forecast of labor needs for 2022-2031 indicates that many energy professionals are approaching retirement age, which would leave a gap in the labor market. The shortage of specialsts, which is already noticeable, may get worse over time. Therefore, the entry of young people and retraining into the sector must be encouraged in every possible way.

Kaarel Jänes, head of the Estonian Association of Electrical Enterprises (EAEE), describes the development and implementation of forward-looking solutions in the electricity sector as critical.

"The demand for skilled labor is very high. We need to support the country's transition to renewable energy and ensure energy security, in a context where electrification is continuing at an extremely rapid pace. It is projected that the sector will need twice as many technically educated skilled workers, engineers and technologists over the next decade as we have entering the labor market today," Jänes said.  

If there are not enough young people opting for electrical professions, serious problems may lie ahead. These include a decrease in the reliability of electrical systems and more frequent and prolonged power outages.

The stagnation of innovation would also be a problem, as without a sufficient generational change, development projects in the field of electricity can slow down, which would also affect our country's ability to meet climate goals. 

Furthermore, economic setbacks are likely, as without sufficient electricity supply, economic growth may begin to slow as companies would cut back on the development of their production capacities.

Positron, an educational festival for young people incepted as an initiative of the EAEE, is aimed at popularizing the professional field of electricity.

The goal of EETEL is to protect the common interests of its members and to promote the professional level of the electricity industry and a sustainable business environment.

The festival will take place at the Eesti Naitused fairs center on Oct. 11 and 12 this year.