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Engineering

Renewable Energy Engineer

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Primary Secondary Post-16

A Renewable Energy Engineer works on the design, development, and implementation of systems that generate energy from renewable sources such as wind, solar, hydro, and biomass. In the UK, these engineers help to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and support the transition to sustainable energy solutions. Their work may involve designing wind turbines for offshore wind farms, improving the efficiency of solar panels, or developing new bioenergy technologies. Renewable Energy Engineers collaborate with scientists, project managers, and technicians, often working both in offices and on-site. Their roles are crucial in helping the UK meet its environmental targets and in tackling climate change.

Renewable Energy Engineer

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📊 Statistics

Average Salary

The average salary for a Renewable Energy Engineer in the UK ranges from £28,000 for entry-level roles to £60,000 or more for experienced professionals.

Job Growth

The UK renewable energy sector saw employment grow to over 138,000 jobs in 2022, reflecting strong demand for skilled engineers.

Industry Size

The UK aims to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050, with renewable energy accounting for over 40 percent of the country’s electricity generation as of 2023.

🚀 Careers in this path

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Solar Power Engineer

Specialises in designing, installing, and maintaining solar energy systems for homes, businesses, or large-scale solar farms.

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Wind Turbine Technician

Focuses on the installation, maintenance, and repair of wind turbines to ensure efficient energy generation.

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Hydroelectric Power Engineer

Works on the development and management of hydroelectric power stations and associated systems for generating electricity from water.

Build a Strong Foundation

Focus on Maths and Science at School

Take subjects like maths, physics, and chemistry at GCSE and A-level to develop analytical and problem-solving skills.

Strong performance in maths and science subjects is essential, as engineering courses and careers rely heavily on these skills. Consider taking part in STEM clubs or competitions to further your understanding and enthusiasm.

Gain Work Experience

Look for work experience placements or internships in engineering firms or energy companies during your studies.

Work experience can often be arranged through school careers advisers, local businesses, or engineering outreach programmes. It gives valuable insight into the industry and can help you make informed decisions about your future specialism.

Obtain Relevant Qualifications

Pursue a Degree in Engineering

Apply for a university degree in engineering, ideally with a focus on renewable or sustainable energy.

Typical degrees include Renewable Energy Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Environmental Engineering. Look for courses accredited by professional bodies like the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

Consider a Postgraduate Qualification

Some roles may require a master’s degree or further study in renewable energy technologies.

A master’s degree can allow you to specialise in areas like solar energy, wind energy, or energy management. Postgraduate study can also open doors to research and development positions.

Launch Your Professional Career

Apply for Graduate Schemes or Entry-Level Roles

Look for graduate schemes, apprenticeships, or junior engineer roles in renewable energy companies.

Major employers in this field include energy providers, engineering consultancies, and companies specialising in solar, wind, or hydroelectric solutions. Graduate schemes often provide structured training and professional development.

Work Towards Chartered Engineer Status

Join a professional engineering institution and start working towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

Becoming chartered with a body like the IET or the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) demonstrates your expertise and can help you progress to senior roles. You will need to keep a record of your professional development and complete further assessments.

🎯 View Apprenticeships

Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Renewable Energy Engineer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.

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Career Progressions

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Sample Qualifications

The 'Renewable energy engineer' is most closely related to 'Civil engineer' because both roles involve designing, implementing, and maintaining infrastructure related to energy and environmental systems. They often work on projects involving sustainable and renewable energy solutions, requiring similar technical skills and knowledge of engineering principles.

How to become

You can get into this job by studying for a degree qualification.

University

You can do a degree in an engineering or a scientific subject. Some employers might expect you to have a postgraduate qualification.

Relevant subjects include:

  • energy engineering
  • Earth sciences
  • environmental engineering
  • geophysics
  • renewable or sustainable energy

Getting work experience during your studies through a summer internship or year placement scheme can give you an advantage when you start looking for work.

Your university careers service can help you find opportunities.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

More Information

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Energy Institute for training and professional development opportunities. You can also apply for chartered engineer status, for recognition of your skills and expertise in the industry.

Further information

You can find out more about working in renewable energy from:

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