Introduction: The UK’s Critical Green Energy Transition

The UK energy industry is at a critical crossroads, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050 while ensuring affordable, secure energy. With COP29 approaching, focus is on sustainable energy transitions and the green skills needed to drive them. For the UK, this involves investing in renewables like offshore wind, solar, and hydrogen, and addressing the skills gap to build a workforce for a cleaner, greener future. This article explores how the UK is preparing to meet these challenges and the key role green skills will play in shaping its green energy landscape.

COP29: A Crucial Moment for Global Climate Action  

The 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), set to take place in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, 2024, represents a crucial moment for accelerating global action against the climate crisis. With record-breaking global temperatures and increasingly severe weather events impacting communities worldwide, COP29 will convene leaders from governments, businesses, and civil society to forge practical solutions to this defining challenge.

A central theme of COP29 will be climate finance, as mobilizing trillions of dollars is essential to cutting greenhouse gas emissions and safeguarding lives and livelihoods from the escalating impacts of climate change. Additionally, the conference marks a key milestone for countries to present updated national climate action plans under the Paris Agreement, ahead of the 2025 deadline. These plans, if ambitious and effectively implemented, could help cap global warming at 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels while driving investment aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

UK’s Role at COP29: A Strong Commitment to Climate Action

As COP29 reaches its halfway point, the climate summit—nicknamed the “Finance COP”—has so far been dominated by critical conversations around funding the global response to the climate crisis. Yet, much of the hard work is still ahead, with the second week poised to tackle pivotal questions: Who will finance the necessary actions? And what commitments will shape the next round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs)?

Notably, Brazil and the United Kingdom have stepped up early, presenting ambitious NDCs ahead of the 2025 deadline. The UK pledged an 81% reduction in emissions by 2035 compared to 1990 levels, alongside £3 billion in international climate finance, with a significant focus on nature-based solutions like forest conservation. Meanwhile, Brazil announced a bold target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 67% by 2035 and launched new initiatives to mobilize capital for ecological transformation. Both nations have set an example for how countries can link climate ambition to actionable investment strategies.

As the world advances towards its green energy future, there is an urgent need to focus on the green skills that will be necessary to meet the UK’s net-zero goals. For industries like renewable energy, low-carbon technologies, and energy efficiency, building a skilled workforce is just as critical as the technologies themselves.

Quantum’s Role in Bridging the Green Skills Gap

Quantum plays a crucial role in equipping the next generation of workers with the skills needed for this green transition. Through its renewable energy training facilities, Quantum provides hands-on training to ensure the UK workforce is prepared for the demands of emerging green technologies. Whether it’s ASHP, Solar PV, or Retrofit, Quantum is actively working to deliver practical, cutting-edge training programs that can support the scaling of green industries in the UK. By focusing on the development of green skills, Quantum is helping to close the skills gap and build a workforce ready to lead in the global green economy.

Carbon Market and Climate Finance

Progress on carbon markets also took center stage, with COP29 endorsing a global framework under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. This marks a significant step toward establishing clear standards for carbon credit trading and integrating high-integrity forest conservation into voluntary markets. As a leader in renewable energy and green skills, Quantum sees these developments as essential to creating a thriving green economy—one that not only reduces emissions but also provides opportunities for reskilling and workforce development across key sectors.

As negotiations enter the critical second week, the spotlight will shift to Nature Day, where we expect renewed focus on nature-based solutions and equitable strategies for forest conservation. Quantum believes this is an opportunity to emphasize the connection between sustainable practices, investment in renewable infrastructure, and the green skills needed to make these initiatives successful. Aligning finance with practical training and workforce development is not only crucial to meeting climate goals but also key to unlocking a just and inclusive energy transition.

To find out more and to keep updated with COP29 please click here: PM remarks at COP29: 12 November 2024 – GOV.UK

The UK’s Green Energy Transition: Powering Towards Net Zero

As part of the UK’s strategy to reach net zero emissions by 2050, a significant focus is on transitioning to an electricity system that relies on 100% zero-carbon generation. Renewable energy will play a central role in achieving this target, and the UK has already made substantial progress in incorporating renewable energy sources into its electricity mix.

Current State of Renewable Energy in the UK

Today, renewable energy sources are a major part of the UK’s electricity supply. The UK has made remarkable strides in clean power generation, with a significant proportion of electricity now sourced from renewables such as wind, solar, bioenergy, and hydropower.

In 2020, renewable energy accounted for 43% of the UK’s electricity generation, marking a historic milestone. By May 2023, the UK reached another significant achievement, producing its trillionth kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity from renewable sources—enough to power the country’s homes for 12 years. The pace of renewable energy generation is accelerating, and projections suggest that it will take just over five years to reach the next trillionth kWh.

A Rapid Growth in Renewable Energy Use

The UK’s renewable energy share has grown dramatically over the past few decades. In 1991, renewable sources made up just 2% of electricity generation. By 2013, this had increased to 14.6%, and by 2019, zero-carbon electricity generation overtook fossil fuels for the first time. In August 2019, the UK set an all-time high of 85.1% renewable generation, with wind alone accounting for 39%, solar for 25%, nuclear for 20%, and hydro for 1%.

The contribution of individual renewable sources in 2023 was as follows:

• Wind power: 29.4% of total electricity generation
• Biomass: 5% of the renewable mix
• Solar: 4.9% of the renewable mix
• Hydropower (including tidal): 1.8% of the renewable mix

Breaking Records: Renewable Energy Milestones

The UK continues to set new records in renewable energy production. In 2022, zero-carbon generation reached a record 138 terawatt-hours (TWh), and in 2023, it remained strong at 133 TWh. December 2023 marked the 15th consecutive month where zero-carbon generation outpaced fossil fuels. Coal use has also significantly decreased, falling by over 97% since 2013.

The maximum contribution of zero-carbon power in the generation mix was 87.6% on January 4, 2023, and wind generation hit new records in 2023, with the largest-ever wind power generation on December 21, reaching 21.8GW. Solar power also reached new heights in April 2023, with a record 10.971GW generated.

The Path Forward: Expanding Renewable Capacity

The UK is on track to continue increasing renewable energy generation. The government has set ambitious plans to scale up offshore wind capacity to 50GW by 2030, supported by a £200 million investment and other financial incentives. Solar capacity could also rise to 70GW by the same year. Combined with other low-carbon sources like nuclear, which contributed 14.2% in 2023, the UK’s green energy infrastructure is on course to meet the government’s target of 100% zero-carbon electricity by 2035 and ultimately achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

Energy Efficiency: A Cornerstone of the UK’s Energy Strategy

Improving energy efficiency plays a crucial role in the UK’s Energy Security Strategy. By reducing the energy consumption of homes and businesses, we can not only lower energy bills but also enhance energy security, make buildings more comfortable, and contribute to reaching the government’s net-zero goals.

The Importance of Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a key part of reducing the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels and improving our energy security. Over 90% of UK homes are heated by fossil fuels, which contribute to a third of the country’s total gas consumption. Given recent spikes in gas prices, households are particularly vulnerable to rising costs. By improving the energy efficiency of homes, families can save up to 20% on their heating bills and reduce the need for imported gas, making homes more affordable and sustainable in the long run.

Energy efficiency measures, such as double glazing, insulation, and energy-saving appliances, can help reduce energy waste. These initiatives not only lower household expenses but also decrease overall demand for energy, thus contributing to the country’s efforts to combat climate change.

Support Measures Under the British Energy Security Strategy

To support consumers and accelerate the adoption of energy-efficient measures, the UK government has introduced a range of financial assistance programs as part of its broader energy security efforts.

The British Energy Security Strategy builds on several key government initiatives, including the Prime Minister’s 10-Point Plan and the Net Zero Strategy. As part of this strategy, the government has allocated billions of pounds to help consumers reduce their energy consumption and ease the burden of high energy costs.

One of the most significant measures includes a £15 billion package aimed at reducing the impact of rising global energy prices, which includes direct financial support such as:

• A £400 discount on energy bills, non-repayable, to be distributed by energy suppliers from October 2022 onward.
• A £150 Council Tax discount to help with the cost of living.
• Winter Fuel Payments of up to £300 for pensioners and a Warm Home Discount offering up to £140 for over 2.2 million low-income households.

These measures are designed to alleviate immediate financial pressure on households while supporting the broader transition to a low-carbon energy system.

Government Initiatives to Improve Energy Efficiency

The UK government has committed to making substantial investments in energy efficiency. Among the most significant actions is the Heat and Buildings Strategy, which includes £3.9 billion of support aimed at improving the energy efficiency of homes and public buildings. This strategy is expected to upgrade 700,000 homes by 2025, with a long-term goal of achieving low-carbon heating systems in all homes by 2050.

Additional funding includes:

• A £1 billion per year Energy Company Obligation (ECO), which helps over 133,000 low-income households annually improve their homes’ energy efficiency.
• £1.8 billion for low-income households through the Home Upgrade Grant and Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, helping to install energy-saving measures like insulation and efficient heating systems.
• Over £1.4 billion has been earmarked to decarbonize public sector buildings, which will also contribute to the overall reduction in energy use.

The government’s commitment to decarbonizing homes and buildings is a cornerstone of its broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency across the nation.

How Energy Efficiency Benefits Consumers

By improving the energy efficiency of homes, the government is not only helping to reduce energy consumption but also ensuring that families save money. For example, households in low-income brackets have already saved approximately £300 annually through various energy-saving initiatives. These savings will increase as more homes are upgraded with insulation, better heating systems, and energy-efficient appliances.

To make energy-saving improvements more accessible, the government is offering incentives such as zero VAT on energy-saving materials like insulation and heat pumps for the next five years. The £450 million Boiler Upgrade Scheme will further incentivize the installation of energy-efficient heat pumps, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Additionally, to accelerate the transition to low-carbon heating, the government plans to phase out the sale of new gas boilers by 2035. To achieve this, it is supporting the installation of 600,000 heat pumps annually by 2028, providing financial incentives and expanding heat networks across the country.

Achievements in Energy Efficiency

Significant progress has already been made in improving energy efficiency across the UK. The number of homes with an Energy Efficiency Rating (EPC) of C or higher has increased from 13% in 2010 to 46% today. Moreover, around 84% of new builds now meet the top energy efficiency standards, with 40% of homes in England now rated EPC B or C.

In addition, the UK has made considerable strides in improving its public sector buildings, with £6.6 billion allocated for building decarbonization throughout this parliamentary term.

Supporting Low-Income Households

The government has placed a strong emphasis on supporting the most vulnerable households, especially those at risk of fuel poverty. In addition to the Winter Fuel Payments and Warm Home Discount, the government has expanded the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) to help more low-income households. Over 3.4 million measures have already been installed, and the government has committed to a £4 billion extension of the scheme over the next four years.

For those struggling with rising costs, the government offers Cold Weather Payments and additional funding through the Household Support Fund, which provides financial assistance to households in need.

Empowering Property Owners to Improve Energy Efficiency

To help property owners make energy-efficient improvements, the government is fostering the development of a green finance market. Through initiatives like the Green Home Finance Innovation Fund, homeowners can access affordable loans and financing options for energy-saving measures. The £1.8 million Green Home Finance Innovation Fund was one of the early steps to support the development of green financial products for homeowners, with plans for further programs to enhance access to low-cost green financing.

Moreover, the government is working with mortgage lenders to provide support for homeowners seeking to improve the energy performance of their properties, with potential savings of £196 per property by 2030.

Conclusion

The UK is making significant strides towards its net-zero goals, with renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green skills at the forefront of its strategy. As the country accelerates its transition to cleaner energy, the importance of a skilled workforce to support this shift cannot be overstated. Through investments in renewables, energy efficiency measures, and training programs, the UK is building a sustainable, resilient energy system. As the global community prepares for COP29, the UK’s commitment to reducing emissions, enhancing energy security, and supporting its workforce positions it as a leader in the global green transition.

If you want to find out more about what Quantum can offer please get in touch with [email protected] or visit our website here: https://fe.thequantumgroup.uk.com/green-skills-courses-2/

The 2024 Association of Colleges (AoC) Annual Conference was an remarkable event that highlighted the dynamic and transformative role of Further Education (FE) in the UK. As one of the most significant gatherings in the FE calendar, it brought together a diverse array of leaders, educators, and policymakers, all united by a common goal: to explore new ways of strengthening the sector and improving outcomes for learners across the country.

The conference served as a powerful reminder of the dedication, passion, and innovation within the FE sector. It was an inspiring environment, filled with discussions on how colleges can evolve to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world. From keynote speeches to panel discussions, the event provided a platform for thought leadership, practical insights, and forward-thinking strategies that will shape the future of FE.

This article reflects on the key takeaways from the AoC Annual Conference 2024, focusing on the pressing challenges and emerging opportunities in Further Education. As the sector continues to adapt and grow, the conference served as a crucial forum for exploring new ideas, forging collaborations, and driving the next phase of progress for colleges, their students, and the communities they serve.

Baroness Jacqui Smith’s Keynote Address at the 2024 AoC Annual Conference:

Baroness Jacqui Smith, the Skills Minister, delivered a powerful keynote address at the 2024 Association of Colleges (AoC) Annual Conference, outlining the government’s ambitious plans to reshape the skills and education landscape in the UK. Her speech was rich with ideas about how to reverse years of systemic challenges and put further education (FE) at the heart of the nation’s economic recovery and future growth.

In this article, we explore the key takeaways from Baroness Smith’s address, including her vision for a more coordinated, inclusive, and effective skills system. She emphasised the importance of colleges in driving social mobility, fostering economic growth, and providing tailored opportunities for learners at all stages of their lives. Below is a summary of the major points she raised, alongside some of her most significant remarks.

A Mission-Led Government: Reimagining Education and Skills for Growth

Baroness Smith began her speech by setting the tone for her government’s broader vision: a mission-led approach to education and skills development. She stated that the government’s goal is not only to drive economic growth but also to build a fairer society where success is determined by “effort and enterprise, whatever your background.”

She expressed her pride in being the Skills Minister, acknowledging the significant role that colleges play in advancing social mobility and improving employment outcomes. According to Baroness Smith, colleges are central to the government’s vision of a fairer, more inclusive society. She highlighted that colleges are responsible for 38% of disadvantaged young people progressing to higher education, and 68% progressing to sustainable employment. This statistic reflects the vital contribution colleges make to the national workforce and economy.

Baroness Smith also recognised the challenges facing the FE sector, particularly the difficulties colleges encounter due to underfunding, fragmented systems, and the increasing gap in skills needed for future economic growth. “I know you share these ambitions,” she said, appealing to the delegates in the room who are committed to shaping the future of education and skills in the UK.

Key Challenges Facing Further Education

Despite the positive contributions of colleges, Baroness Smith was quick to acknowledge the very real challenges within the current system. She highlighted several key statistics that point to the weaknesses in the UK’s skills system, including:

• One in eight young people are not in education, training, or work.
• Nine million adults lack basic English and maths skills.
• The UK has one of the lowest rates of technical skills at levels 4 and 5 in the OECD.

Baroness Smith called these issues “disheartening” but also emphasised that they are not insurmountable. She pointed out that these statistics reflect broader systemic problems that need urgent attention. She also noted that many learners feel “sidelined,” while employers are frustrated by the fragmented system that prevents a coherent approach to meeting skills needs.

“We know we must take steps to fix the foundations of our skills system,” she said, acknowledging that significant changes are necessary for the sector to thrive and better serve both learners and employers.

A New Era for Further Education: Financial Commitment and Policy Change

Baroness Smith pointed to several positive developments in the 2024 Budget as evidence of the government’s commitment to reforming the FE sector. Among the announcements, she highlighted:

• £300 million of additional funding for the FE sector.
• £950 million of capital skills investment, including £300 million for college estates.
• £40 million to support more flexible apprenticeships via the Growth and Skills Levy.

She also confirmed that colleges would receive support for the additional cost of changes to employers’ National Insurance Contributions, which have added financial strain on public sector employers. This financial commitment signals the government’s recognition of the challenges facing the sector, though Baroness Smith made it clear that these initial steps are only the beginning.

“We must go further,” she said. “That is why I intend to set out how, with your help, we can reverse the decline of the past 14 years.”

Three Key Differences in the Government’s Approach to Skills

Baroness Smith outlined three key differences in the current government’s approach to skills compared to previous efforts:

1. Mission-Led Government Focus: The government’s approach is driven by a long-term mission to support national growth, tackle key societal challenges (such as healthcare and energy), and foster a sustainable economy. “Skills are essential to delivering them,” she said. This mission-led focus will help provide clarity and direction for skills policy, ensuring that FE is not just reactive but proactive in addressing the nation’s broader economic goals.
2. Collaboration, Not Imposition: Unlike previous top-down approaches, the government aims to build a skills system that involves collaboration across all sectors of society. “We want to see the whole of society – businesses, trade unions, providers, and learners – come together to reimagine how we deliver skills,” Baroness Smith explained. This collaborative approach aims to create a more flexible, responsive system that serves the needs of both learners and employers.
3. A Cultural Shift in Skills: The third key change Baroness Smith discussed was a cultural shift that recognises the interconnectedness of skills within a wider ecosystem. She highlighted the importance of aligning the skills system with the nation’s industrial strategy, healthcare needs, and green energy goals. “Skills are part of a much wider ecosystem,” she stated, pointing to how government departments will work together to create a more cohesive system that reflects the needs of industries, communities, and the economy.

Improving Inclusion: Supporting All Learners

A central theme of Baroness Smith’s address was the need to provide better support for all learners, particularly those who are currently marginalised or sidelined by the existing system. She explained that too many young people are not having their individual circumstances taken into account, whether due to caring responsibilities, health issues, or a lack of confidence. “Too many young people do not have their personal circumstances or needs taken into account,” she said.

To address this, the government has introduced several initiatives, such as:

• A Youth Guarantee, offering tailored support for young people aged 18-21.
• The introduction of the Lifelong Learning Entitlement from 2027, which will enable individuals to access funding for education throughout their lives.
• Plans for a rejuvenated careers service to help people navigate the job market and provide continuous support for their career development.

Baroness Smith also made a firm commitment to improving the working conditions for FE teachers and staff, highlighting the introduction of a Crown Guarantee for the Local Government Pension Scheme, which will free up essential funding for the sector.

Building a Coherent, Coordinated Skills System

One of the most pressing issues in the FE sector is the fragmented nature of the current skills system. Baroness Smith made it clear that this fragmentation must be addressed, as it causes confusion for both learners and employers. She highlighted that there is an urgent need to consolidate funding streams, reduce regulatory overlap, and ensure that learners understand how different qualifications can help them achieve their career goals.

“We will bring together the currently fragmented system into a coherent one that learners, employers, and providers alike can understand,” she said, signalling the government’s intention to simplify and streamline the system.

As part of this effort, Baroness Smith announced the launch of Skills England, which will coordinate national skills priorities with local and sector-specific needs. This body will work closely with employers, educators, and local governments to create a skills strategy that is both local and national in scope.

The Way Forward: A Call for Collaboration and Action

Concluding her speech, Baroness Smith called for a national conversation on skills, in which all stakeholders will have a say in shaping the future of education and training in the UK. “We all have a role to play,” she said, urging colleges, employers, and communities to work together in both developing and implementing the changes necessary for a stronger, more effective skills system.

Baroness Smith’s vision for the future of FE and skills development is one that aims to create an inclusive, flexible, and sustainable system that empowers learners and meets the needs of the economy. While acknowledging the challenges, she remains confident that with the right investment, collaboration, and policy reform, the UK can build a more equitable skills system that delivers lasting benefits for all.

You can read more about Baroness Smith’s vision here: https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/skills-ministers-keynote-address-to-the-association-of-colleges?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=govuk-notifications-topic&utm_source=0ef0d9e8-9b9d-4565-965f-fd90b3424181&utm_content=daily

Martyn Oliver at the AoC Conference: Working Together to Shape the Future Skills System

Following Baroness Jacqui Smith’s inspiring vision for the future of Further Education, Martyn Oliver, Chief Executive of Outwood Grange Academies Trust, also took the stage at the AoC Annual Conference. His address complemented the government’s aspirations for the sector, but also focused on the practical steps that would be necessary to improve and evolve the education and skills system, particularly in relation to inspections and accountability.

Oliver highlighted the diverse and critical role of Further Education (FE) and skills providers in the national economy, noting the significant impact that colleges have in meeting local skills needs and contributing to the growth of regional economies. As he reflected on his own experience working with FE providers, he emphasized the importance of a flexible, nuanced inspection framework that takes into account the different types of provision and the varied contexts in which colleges operate.

“I’ve been struck by the scale and diversity of the FE sector,” Oliver remarked, reinforcing how vital colleges are in developing career pathways and meeting national skills demands. He also praised the recent changes made by Ofsted, including the introduction of a new sub-judgement for colleges to assess their contribution to skills needs—an important step in recognizing the role colleges play in local and national growth.

In his speech, Oliver shared insights on the planned changes to the inspection framework, especially the removal of the single-word effectiveness grade, which has long been a point of contention for many colleges. Oliver acknowledged the feedback gathered through Ofsted’s “Big Listen” consultation, noting the sector’s desire for more detailed, context-driven inspection reports that reflect the quality of provision and outcomes in a meaningful way.

“We want to make inspection work for all sectors and provider types we inspect,” Oliver explained, reiterating that the focus should be on improving standards across the FE sector rather than simply detecting failures. This shift toward a more collaborative and supportive inspection model is part of Ofsted’s ongoing effort to reduce pressure on colleges while ensuring that inspection processes are fair, transparent, and focused on continuous improvement.

A key theme of Oliver’s address was the importance of inclusion and support for vulnerable learners. He reinforced that, by improving outcomes for the most disadvantaged students, the entire sector benefits. The message was clear: ensuring that the needs of vulnerable learners are met must remain at the heart of any reform efforts in FE and skills.

Oliver concluded by thanking the AoC and all FE providers for their tireless work and dedication. As he highlighted the importance of continued collaboration with government and sector bodies, it became clear that the future of the FE sector will depend on collective efforts to shape an education system that is inclusive, adaptable, and responsive to the changing needs of learners and employers alike.

You can find out more about Martyn Oliver’s speech here: https://www.gov.uk/government/speeches/martyn-oliver-at-the-aoc-conference-working-together-to-shape-the-future-skills-system

To conclude

Baroness Jacqui Smith and Martyn Oliver were just two of the many inspiring speakers at the 2024 AoC Annual Conference, each offering unique perspectives on the future of Further Education (FE) and the critical role it will play in the UK’s economic and social recovery. Their addresses set the tone for the event, highlighting the need for bold reforms, greater collaboration, and a renewed focus on inclusion and skills development.

But their speeches were only the beginning. The conference also featured a range of expert panel discussions, interactive workshops, and thought-provoking conversations that allowed delegates to explore the latest trends, share best practices, and debate the future direction of the sector. From exploring innovations in teaching and learning, to discussing the impact of digital transformation, to considering how the sector can better meet the needs of employers, the conference was a showcase of the vibrant and diverse voices that make up the FE community.

One of the most powerful takeaways from the event was the shared commitment to driving forward positive change. Whether it was through the government’s financial investment in FE or through the sector’s ongoing efforts to improve outcomes for learners, the conference underscored the importance of unity and collective action in building a stronger, more responsive skills system.

As we look ahead, it’s clear that the future of Further Education is one of exciting possibility. The sector is primed for transformation, driven by innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to supporting learners at every stage of their journey. The AoC Annual Conference 2024 served as both a celebration of the progress made and a call to action for all involved to continue pushing for a system that meets the evolving needs of both students and employers.

In conclusion, the conference reminded us that the strength of the FE sector lies not just in the challenges it faces, but in the shared determination of leaders, educators, and policymakers to overcome them. The work ahead will require dedication, creativity, and collaboration—but with the insights, partnerships, and inspiration gained from this year’s conference, there’s every reason to believe that the future of FE is in safe hands. Quantum had a great time exhibiting and we will see you there next year!

To find out more about Quantum and what we do please click here: https://fe.thequantumgroup.uk.com/green-skills-courses-2/

To get in contact with a Quantum team member please email [email protected]