With the construction industry’s ongoing skills shortages showing no signs of easing up as we head into 2024, electrical continues to be one of the sectors facing particularly high demand for new, qualified talent.
Earlier this year, Checkatrade and Capital Economics released the latest UK Trade Skills Index, which highlighted an ‘alarming skills gap’ in the industry, with a shortage of electrical talent one of the leading causes for concern.
The study, which is the most recent of its kind, predicts that an additional 104,000 electricians will be needed by 2032, representing the biggest share of demand above other major construction trades including plumbing and bricklaying.
Echoing this, the Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB)’s new Labour Forecasting Tool predicts demand for new workers in the engineering construction industry by 2028 is actually much higher than previously thought.
Among its new findings, the ECITB shows there could be a 28% increase in demand for workers in this sector between 2023 and 2028, with nearly 8,000 additional workers potentially needed to meet output targets in 2024 alone.
The role of electricians in the green transition
It’s no secret that electricity has a major role to play in the UK’s transition to greener energy alternatives, making the sector arguably one of the most future-proof careers out there.
In fact, a recent study by Pye Tait on behalf of The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership (TESP) has revealed that the UK’s solar energy plans are likely to add significantly to the skilled labour shortages already being felt across the industry.
The research estimates that between 6,110 and 6,890 full-time equivalent (FTE) qualified electricians will be required to support the increase in solar installations by 2035.
While the traditional day-to-day roles and responsibilities of electricians may shift in the coming years, with some element of upskilling likely to be required, the core skill set will undoubtedly be vital to installing and maintaining new green alternatives like solar panels, heat pumps and wind turbines.
How much can electricians earn?
According to Reed’s latest data (correct at the time of writing), the average salary of an electrician in the UK is £41,168. This figure is notably higher than the average UK full-time salary of £34,963.
There is also of course the opportunity to boost this earning potential by going down the route of launching your own electrical business and setting your own rates and workload.
The unique combination of immediate demand for skilled workers, high earning potential and good long-term career prospects suggest that 2024 could be the ideal time to begin working towards a career in the electrical industry.
If a career in electrical is something you’d like to explore, Able Skills offers a range of expert-led courses to suit all levels of experience, from short introductory courses, right through to in-depth packages that will prepare you for employment in the industry. You can find more information about all of our electrical courses here.