The Energy Transition Skills Hub at Pembrokeshire College is a ground-breaking initiative designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge required for careers in renewable and low-carbon energy industries. Supported by Shell UK and the Swansea Bay City Deal Skills and Talent Fund, which is run by the South West Wales Regional Learning and Skills Partnership, this innovative facility provides immersive, hands-on training in control systems crucial for offshore floating wind, hydrogen production, solar photovoltaics, and other emerging energy technologies. Pembrokeshire College has worked with City and Guilds to develop an assured programme, which rewards the learners with a digital badge upon completion. 

Sam Egerton from City and Guilds highlights "City & Guilds is thrilled to work with Shell UK and Pembrokeshire College on the Energy Transition Skills Hub. This fantastic and innovative initiative is all about equipping people with the skills needed for careers in renewable and low-carbon energy, addressing the huge global skills gap in this sector. We are proud that over 150 individuals to date have been awarded with a City & Guilds assured digital credential upon completion of the programme”

The Impact of the Project

The Energy Transition Skills Hub has been developed in response to the rapidly evolving energy sector and the increasing demand for a workforce skilled in renewable and low-carbon technologies.  

The facility includes a state-of-the-art virtual control room, enabling students and professionals to gain hands-on experience in managing complex energy systems. This practical exposure is critical to preparing individuals for real-world industry challenges.

The initiative plays a pivotal role in positioning Pembrokeshire as a leader in energy transition. By providing a pipeline of skilled workers, the Hub supports regional investment and attracts businesses looking for a trained workforce. The project aligns with broader national objectives to enhance the UK's renewable energy capabilities, reduce carbon emissions, and create sustainable employment opportunities.

One of the key focuses of the Hub is to support the growing renewable energy opportunities in the region, particularly Offshore Floating Wind and Solar PV, as well as other emerging technologies expected to be introduced in Pembrokeshire. By ensuring that local people have access to high-quality training in these areas, the Hub is playing a crucial role in preparing the workforce for the jobs of the future.

One of the key successes of the Hub is its ability to serve multiple stakeholders, including school leavers, apprentices, existing energy professionals looking to upskill, and local businesses in need of a highly trained workforce. The facility also offers outreach programmes for schools and the wider community, raising awareness of energy transition and inspiring the next generation of engineers and energy professionals.

College Principal, Dr Barry Walters: “We would like to thank Shell UK, Dragon LNG, the Swansea Bay City Deal Skills and Talent Fund and City and Guilds along with industry partners and local Members of the Senedd, Paul Davies and Sam Kurtz for supporting this important facility which will not only train college learners and industry professionals but will also support the local community and schools by giving them the opportunity to understand more about how energy transition will impact the way we live and work in the future.” Barry Walters, Principal Pembrokeshire College

“I’m delighted that UK Government funding, via the Swansea Bay City Deal, is being used for such a great facility. Pembrokeshire has an important part to play in achieving our mission for clean energy by 2030. This training facility will mean that local people will be able to gain the skills they need to access the good jobs of the future.” Jo Stevens

“The past four years of my apprenticeship have been nothing short of amazing. Whilst onsite I have had the privilege of working with some of the most experienced and talented professionals in the industry and spent one day a week in College where the lecturers are just as passionate and inspiring. The blend of practical, hands-on work and theoretical learning through my qualifications has been incredibly rewarding.Today, having toured this incredible new process control simulator, and experimented with the software, I can’t help but feel excited about the future. This facility is truly state-of-the-art, and it’s going to further elevate an already outstanding programme in the energy sector. I can’t wait to make the most of this space as I continue to learn and grow in my field.”  Kelly Williams, Apprentice

Anthony Harte, Head of Social Impact, Shell UK commented: “We want as many people as possible to benefit from the energy system of the future. And we’ve seen this coming to life in Pembrokeshire with the first new energy transition skills hub. This is part of our ambition to support 15,000 people into jobs with a focus on the energy transition by 2035. It is the latest important step to ensure the energy transition is an opportunity for everyone.”

Collaboration and Funding

The Energy Transition Skills Hub is supported by Shell UK and the Swansea Bay City Deal Skills and Talent Fund, which is run by the South West Wales Regional Learning and Skills Partnership. The involvement of these key partners has been instrumental in bringing the project to life.

The collaboration between Pembrokeshire College, industry partners, and government stakeholders demonstrates the power of strategic investment in skills development, providing people across the region with the skills and knowledge necessary to support the Energy Transition. By aligning training provision with industry needs, the Hub ensures that learners graduate with relevant and in-demand competencies.

Future Prospects and Sustainability

The establishment of the Energy Transition Skills Hub marks a significant step towards a sustainable and skilled energy workforce. As the UK accelerates its efforts to meet net-zero targets, initiatives like this will play a crucial role in ensuring that skilled professionals are available to support the transition.

Moving forward, Pembrokeshire College plans to expand the programme, incorporating emerging technologies and additional training modules. A key focus will remain on Offshore Floating Wind, Solar PV, and other renewable energy technologies expected to develop in Pembrokeshire. The success of this project may also serve as a model for similar training hubs across the UK, reinforcing the importance of education-industry collaboration in driving the energy transition forward.

Conclusion

The Energy Transition Skills Hub at Pembrokeshire College is a pioneering example of how education, industry, and government can work together to address the challenges of energy transition. By providing cutting-edge training facilities, the Hub is not only preparing individuals for meaningful careers in renewable energy but also strengthening the local economy and contributing to the UK's broader sustainability goals.

Through hands-on learning, strong industry partnerships, and a commitment to upskilling the workforce, the Energy Transition Skills Hub stands as a beacon of innovation and opportunity. With continued investment and collaboration, it has the potential to shape the future of energy education and workforce development for years to come.

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