Need for Increased Competence to Realize 30 GW of Offshore Wind in Norway

The Norwegian Offshore Wind Competence Center recently launched the first phase of the VindKOMP project, aimed at mapping the competence and capacity needs required to realize Norway’s goal of 30 GW offshore wind by 2040.

The project has involved broad participation from both industry and educational sectors to gain insight into the skills and resources necessary for this large-scale effort.

In September, we signed a collaboration agreement with the center (photo) and this week, we were fortunate enough to get a preview of the findings from CEO, Rune Klausen during a meeting with GCE Ocean Technology’s renewable energy working group.

Capacity Needs for Offshore Wind Projects

VindKOMP has estimated that a floating offshore wind park with a capacity of 1.5 GW will require approximately 22,150 full-time equivalents (FTEs) over the park’s lifetime, while a bottom-fixed project of the same size will require 19,400 FTEs.

These estimates include the workforce needed for development, construction, operation, maintenance, and decommissioning. The construction and installation phase is the most labor-intensive, especially for floating wind farms, which require more vessels and longer installation periods compared to bottom-fixed projects.

The Majority of the Workforce Will Be Skilled Workers

Around 65-70% of the FTEs required for these projects will be at the skilled worker level, including operators, technicians, and maritime personnel.

This highlights the need for a stronger focus on secondary school, vocational training, and apprenticeships. Klausen emphasized during his presentation:

– We need to ensure that the education system covers the entire value chain, from secondary school to universities.

Norwegian Conditions Increase Complexity

The VindKOMP project has identified that Norwegian offshore wind projects are more resource-intensive than similar projects in countries like Denmark.

This is due to deeper waters, harsher weather conditions, and longer distances from shore, requiring robust design and extended transport routes.

– Norwegian conditions make our projects uniquely challenging, which will require significantly more labor, Klausen explained.

Need for Early Recruitment Efforts

To secure a sufficient workforce, VindKOMP suggests early recruitment and close collaboration between industry and educational institutions. A key step forward is to bridge the gap between current education offerings and future needs.

Early-stage recruitment has also been a critical topic in GCE Ocean Technology’s renewable energy working group.

– The findings in the report align well with concerns we hear from our members and industry partners, says Karianne Kojen Andersen from GCE Ocean Technology.

– It’s important to inform students about future job opportunities in renewable energy at an early stage. We are looking at a potential project where we, in collaboration with the industry, reach out to students and career advisors at secondary and high schools as well as to advisors in vocational education.

Educational Opportunities in Offshore Wind

Several initiatives are already underway to bridge the competence gap.

The Western Norway University of Applied Sciences recently launched a free course on maritime operations for offshore wind, which provides students with solid knowledge and skills in offshore wind technology and operations.

This is highly relevant considering the growing demand for labor in the sector. Read more about the program here.

Additionally, the University of Bergen is developing an experience-based master’s degree in renewable energy and are asking for feedback to ensure the program meets the industry’s urgent competence needs.