A joint initiative to develop a national energy workforce strategy is underway, following the signing of an MoU between the Electricity Engineers’ Association and Energy Resources Aotearoa. The completed plan is expected by December 2025.
Develop Workforce Plan to Address Skills Shortfalls
The initiative will result in an evidence-based strategy covering electricity supply, energy resources, large energy users, and the service sector. The main goal is to identify where the sector is falling short in terms of workforce numbers, future skill requirements, and the education and training pathways needed to fill these gaps.
Map the Workforce Pipeline Across Education Levels
The organisations will assess the effectiveness of existing schooling, vocational, and tertiary programmes in preparing workers for energy sector careers as part of the report. The strategy will propose solutions for attracting, developing, and retaining talent to support the industry’s transition and resilience.
John Carnegie, Chief Executive of Energy Resources Aotearoa, said the collaboration is a strong indicator of how the energy sector approaches workforce development in Aotearoa.
“We can provide a clearer picture of workforce needs and better coordinate investment in talent development by aligning analysis across all forms of energy,” Carnegie said. “It’s about building a resilient, skilled workforce that’s ready to lead the future for our energy sector.”
Break Down Silos to Support a Low-Emissions Future
The MoU is a tangible commitment to extend outside of the traditional industry silos. The report will focus on the integrated planning needed to meet New Zealand’s future low-emissions goals and reflect the complexity of challenges the energy sector faces.
Nicki Sutherland, Chief Executive of the EEA, said the partnership demonstrates a new level of industry alignment.
EA and Energy Resources Aotearoa main goal is to create a more unified energy sector by strengthening cross-industry collaboration and aligning efforts around shared workforce priorities as they journey towards a lower emissions future.
“The partnership seeks to ensure that workforce planning reflects the full complexity of the sector’s challenges and opportunities, enabling smarter, more coordinated action to meet the demands of a low-emissions future.”
Launch Strategy Nationally to Drive Engagement
The final strategy and action plan will be launched at a national event in December 2025. The event will bring together stakeholders from across the country, including government representatives, iwi, educators, energy companies, and community groups.
Two leading energy organisations are working together to support New Zealand’s energy transition by developing a national workforce strategy. The MoU between EEA and Energy Resources Aotearoa focuses on filling skill gaps and aligning training efforts.