EDF Power Solutions UK has launched a partnership with Powering Futures to address a critical worker shortage in the renewable energy sector and accelerate Scotland's transition to net zero. Experts predict that full-time roles in the onshore wind industry alone will need to triple within the next two years to meet essential climate targets.

The collaboration will see EDF employees volunteer in classrooms across Scotland as part of the Powering Futures Challenge Programme.

The Powering Futures initiative, established in 2020, brings together S5 and S6 secondary school pupils and businesses. Students work in teams to devise creative solutions to a real-life challenge set by the industry. This academic year, over 2,500 pupils across 100-plus schools are tackling challenges related to renewable projects, with the goal of earning an SCQF Level 6 qualification—equivalent to a Scottish Higher.

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Stephanie Bouchard-Saliba, Chief People Officer at EDF Power Solutions UK, emphasised the programme's value in expanding their reach near their sites. She highlighted the immense variety of roles available within the sector: "Whether it is project management, communications, engineering, legal or planning, there is a huge variety of roles available which play a critical role in enabling us to achieve net zero and to really make a difference through a meaningful career."

Jennifer Tempany, Co-Founder of Powering Futures, stated that the partnership will empower "tomorrow's business leaders to solve today's business challenges." She added that working with a company at the forefront of Scotland's net zero journey creates "real opportunities for young people across Scotland to shape a cleaner, brighter future."