Scotland must double its current number of qualified electricians to successfully achieve its net-zero ambitions, according to Professor Sean Smith, a leading construction expert and Director of the Centre for Future Infrastructure at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, University of Edinburgh.

Speaking on the latest SELECT 'Sparks' Remarks' podcast, Professor Smith emphasised the immense growth in the renewables sector and the "golden travel ticket" of opportunities for those pursuing upskilling and training in electrical work. He noted that while more people are entering the field, a significant expansion of facilities and resources is needed to meet the projected demand. He stated that the sector would need to build at least five times the existing electricity infrastructure within the next 20 to 25 years to transition away from fossil fuels, creating "unprecedented" work opportunities.


Beyond increasing the workforce, Professor Smith highlighted critical challenges in current grid capacity, particularly concerning localised sub-stations in areas like the Central Belt, which are essential for supporting new infrastructure such as electric vehicle (EV) charging points. He also stressed the necessity for a "huge culture change" among the public, ensuring confidence in green technologies, addressing "range anxiety" for EV users, and making low-carbon solutions both affordable and efficient so that no one is left behind in the transition.

Professor Smith encouraged young people to view electrical qualifications as a global passport, offering lucrative and rewarding careers both at home and abroad, suggesting that international experience could bring valuable knowledge back to Scotland. He concluded that the electrical sector's role in the net-zero transition is "absolutely fundamental" and presents a tremendous opportunity for national change.