RS Roundtable "Powering Possibilities" Challenges and Opportunities of Renewable Energies

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The "Powering Possibilities" roundtable event by RS Components focused on the challenges and opportunities of using renewable energies and how to set the course for a sustainable energy future. You can read the results of the expert discussion in this article.

RS, a global provider of product and service solutions for industrial customers, recently hosted a roundtable event titled "Powering Possibilities" to explore the opportunities and challenges of using renewable energies. Participants included representatives from RS Group, Phoenix Contact, Vårgrønn, James Fisher Renewables, and RenewableUK.

RS Advocates for Upskilling and More Efficiency in the Use of Offshore Wind Energy

The offshore wind sector is on the brink of unprecedented growth, with forecasts of over 100,000 new jobs in the UK alone by 2030. However, the industry also faces significant challenges that threaten to slow progress—including a growing skills gap and inefficiencies that hinder productivity. RS urges industry leaders to address these pressing issues.

The distributor sees solutions in developing skills, diversifying supply chains, and prioritizing bridging critical funding gaps. These measures are considered crucial to unleashing the full potential of offshore wind energy and advancing the transition to renewable energies. During the event, RS brought together key stakeholders to discuss these challenges and outline practical solutions to advance the sector.

Taking Measures to Close the Skills Gap

The renewable energy sector is facing a significant skills gap. There is an urgent need to enhance STEM qualifications and leadership skills to support the rapid growth in this sector. However, the necessary solutions are already taking shape. Nathan Bennett, Head of Strategic Communications at RenewableUK, highlights the introduction of the new Energy Skills Passport in January 2025. It simplifies entry into the sector by aligning individual skills and experience with the needs of the industry. The panelists also agreed: "It's about solving the problem now, not in ten years," emphasized Suzanne Proctor, Supply Chain Manager at James Fisher Renewables.

And Veronica Maxted, Director of Renewables at the RS Group, emphasized the diverse opportunities and dispelled misconceptions about job profiles: "About 60 percent of the positions that will be created in the future require STEM qualifications. But there are also urgent positions to fill that involve leadership skills, project management, and other specialized knowledge." Retraining initiatives and increased awareness that this sector has attractive available positions offer potential for transformative growth.

Challenges for the Supply Chain in Renewable Energies

Industry experts urged a balanced approach to growth in the offshore wind sector, citing the long lead times for key components such as turbine blades.

Suzanne Proctor emphasized: "Everyone would like to switch to larger rotor blades. But a rotor blade change has a lead time of at least five years due to the long production time—it's a bit like fruit growing. From planting the tree to the first harvest, time passes." Diversifying supply chains and managing the relatively early stage of development the sector is in are crucial for sustainable progress. "We must ensure that we do not act hastily," Proctor stressed, highlighting the need to align innovations with practical requirements.

Close the Financing Gap and Promote Offshore Wind Power Investments

The discussion highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure improvements, optimized regulatory frameworks, and efficient due diligence processes to accelerate investments in offshore wind power projects.

Christer Af Geijerstam, SVP Projects at Vårgrønn, emphasized the challenges of securing financing and gaining investor confidence. "Developing the technology is one thing, but convincing banks and lenders of the investment's value is a tremendous effort."

Long-term government partnerships were also highlighted as essential. Since offshore projects have long runtimes that extend beyond typical political cycles, stability must be ensured. "A successful industry is an attractive industry—when it thrives, it attracts talent and investment. A dynamic is created that organically closes skills gaps," added Christer Af Geijerstam, pointing to the further benefits of a robust offshore wind sector.

Digitalization Will Advance the Offshore ector

Digitalization will transform the offshore industry and improve both efficiency and the quality of life for employees.

Amy Quinn, Head of Offshore Wind at RS Group, emphasized the impact of improved connectivity: "From a logistical perspective, the crew typically operates in a two-week offshore rotation, with only limited material stocks stored on each ship. While the crews perform regular maintenance work, they can now place spare parts orders directly from the ship."

"This process is crucial, especially when delays are anticipated. If parts do not arrive on time, it can disrupt the maintenance schedule, and there is a risk of additional costs for the ship. Therefore, investments in advanced technology are essential to ensure smooth operations and minimize potential issues." Digitalization in the offshore industry will increase the sector's competitiveness in the rapidly evolving energy landscape.

Create otential

The future of renewable energies is promising: among the experts, there was great optimism regarding the potential of renewable energies.

Farrukh Quraishi, International Business Development Manager at Phoenix Contact, pointed to the increasing prevalence of hydrogen-powered vehicles and stated: "In cities like Aberdeen, hydrogen-powered buses and refuse trucks are already in use, and this trend will continue to grow. There is no reason why London's buses should not be hydrogen-powered." While hydrogen cars remain a long-term prospect, their immediate value lies in sectors such as transport and public transit.

However, the participants of the roundtable also considered the need for significant investments in hydrogen infrastructure to fully exploit its potential. Renewable energies also offer immense growth opportunities here, which can be harnessed with the right skills, investments, balanced innovation potential, and partnerships.

Result

The discussion highlighted the importance of collaboration and proactive action—whether in bridging funding gaps, combating the skills shortage, or strengthening supply chains. The future of renewable energy offers enormous opportunities. In a concerted effort, the full potential of renewable energies can be unlocked, achieving significant progress towards a sustainable future.

(mk)

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