The renewable energy sector is growing at a rapid rate. HR departments play an important role in supporting this growth. They are responsible for bringing in and retaining skilled workers. They also have to ensure their companies have enough manpower for their projects. 

But like in any other industry, there are unique HR challenges in the renewable energy sector, too. On the brighter side, there are various ways to overcome these hurdles.

The Rise of the Renewable Energy Industry

According to the International Energy Agency, the global energy crisis catalyzed the tremendous growth of the renewable energy industry over the past few years. Global renewable energy capacity is set to rise by 107 GW (gigawatts) to 440 GW in 2023. It is the highest increase in renewable capacity ever, with solar and wind energy leading the expansion.

The Role of HR in the Global Energy Sector

The rapid expansion of the renewable energy sector is creating many job opportunities for people across the globe. HR departments play pivotal roles in helping foster and sustain business growth. They are in charge of talent recruitment, retention, and development. 

HR Tasks in the Global Energy Sector

In particular, human resources responsibilities include:

• Finding and signing up qualified talent. Not all applicants for an open position will possess a skill set that matches the job requirements. HR has to create and implement a recruitment strategy that will attract qualified talents.
• Bridging the talent gap. Most skilled workers are aging and retiring. Meanwhile, younger talents frequently switch industries. All of these result in a skills gap. HR has to determine where talent gaps are in the company and help develop solutions.
• Managing performance. HR teams have to work closely with managers to ensure their team can perform their job to the best of their abilities.
• Nurturing future leaders. HR can help their employees become leaders in their respective fields. They can do this by providing inspiration and easy access to information and expertise. 

How the Rise of the Renewable Energy Industry Changed the Strategies of Companies in Attracting Talents

For HR, maintaining that momentum in the quickly evolving renewable energy industry requires finding the most qualified candidates for open positions. Unfortunately, talent became increasingly scarce because of increased competition as the renewable energy sector quickly grew.

Modern companies now turn to data to help them understand what attracts, retains, and helps employees succeed. 

HR Challenges in the Renewable Energy Sector

Here are some of the main HR challenges in the renewable energy sector

Attracting New Talents

With the explosive growth of the renewable energy sector, businesses in this industry face much competition when looking for new talent. HR has to put significant time and effort into the recruitment process to attract and win over the best candidates.

Retaining Workers

As a highly competitive industry with numerous players vying for a limited pool of skilled talent, retaining employees in the renewable energy sector becomes extra challenging. HR needs to find ways to keep their skilled workers from getting lured away by competitors offering better compensation and benefits.

Lack of Talent for the Leadership Roles 

The tectonic shift in the jobs of the renewable energy sectors has led to the scarcity or unavailability of talented individuals for managerial positions. HR has to nurture their employees to become future leaders or seek help to find one.

Maintaining a Diverse Workforce

Diversity is necessary to grow and succeed in today’s interconnected global business environment. However, achieving diversity in gender and ethnicity can be a challenge in a sector mainly led by men. 

How HR Overcomes Challenges

Here are tips to help HR overcome the common hurdles in the renewable energy sector:

• Smaller companies that cannot compete with industry majors in terms of compensation and benefits should consider advertising unique benefits. For example, they can mention an opportunity to form close connections to attract talent.
• Employees quit even in companies with great culture. To increase retention rates, consider offering ongoing training to upskill employees. Giving regular feedback, letting employees know they are appreciated, and providing fair wages can also help retain staff.
• HR teams need to create an integrated culture and environment to attain diversity. It calls for gender-neutral policies devoid of inadvertent bias.
• Evaluate strategies and make modifications as needed.

Overcome HR Challenges in the Renewable Energy Sector With Kilpatrick Executive’s Guidance

Whether you are searching for managers to oversee your team or for talent to round out your group, Kilpatrick Executive can help. Aside from recruitment services, we have experienced and certified coaches. Our seasoned HR experts can help your company build and manage a powerful workforce. Coupled with our customized digital solutions, your company will likely overcome the HR challenges brought about by the rapid growth of the renewable energy sector.

Talk to our consultants today to learn more about how we can help.