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This move is crucial for decarbonising the HDV sector, which involves moving from diesel-powered trucks, buses, and coaches to electric and hydrogen alternatives.
Developing the necessary skills to build, operate, repair, and maintain zero-emission HDVs and their associated charging infrastructure is key to Scotland leveraging the technological and financial opportunities presented by this transition.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop emphasized the importance of this investment: "The transition to net zero will lead to a change in the type of jobs within the transport sector, so it's essential we help workers access the skills they need to adapt to and support that change."
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She added that the fund will support organizations in addressing critical challenges such as access to training, increasing diversity within the workforce, and encouraging private investment in skills development.
The Zero Emissions HDV Skills Challenge Fund is a Programme for Government commitment. It is designed to encourage companies to develop skills for the transition and tackle long-standing workforce challenges, thereby making the sector more attractive to new entrants.
The fund is open to private, public, and third-sector organizations. While the total funding available is £400,000, individual project awards are not expected to exceed £100,000. To qualify, projects must meet at least one of the following objectives: sharing knowledge on training and career opportunities in the HDV sector, supporting greater diversity in the HDV sector workforce, or generating private sector investment in skills development.
All applications must be submitted by 12 PM on July 9, 2025, and all supported activities or projects must be completed by March 31, 2026. This initiative is part of Scotland's broader efforts to achieve its net-zero emissions targets.
