Job Demand
Job Demand
Demand Across Australia
Australia’s solar and renewable energy industry is experiencing unprecedented growth and is expected to remain one of the strongest sources of employment for electricians over the coming decades — driven by renewable targets, private investment, battery storage expansion, EV adoption, and the transition away from fossil fuels.
The sector faces a significant skills shortage, particularly among licensed electricians, high-voltage technicians, commissioning specialists, and electrical supervisors. Industry estimates indicate around 32,000 additional electricians will be needed to support the transition to an electricity system powered by 82% renewables by 2030.
Rooftop solar
Record numbers of systems installed each year create ongoing demand for design, installation, commissioning, maintenance, and battery integration — electricians remain among the most sought-after workers in residential and commercial solar.
Large-scale projects
New solar farms, wind farms, BESS, transmission, and grid connection projects across QLD, NSW, VIC, SA, and WA. During construction and commissioning, electricians can represent up to 30% of the workforce.
Battery storage
One of the fastest-growing segments, with billions invested in grid-scale projects — creating opportunities in battery installation, testing, commissioning, operations, and maintenance.
Mining electrification
Major miners are investing in renewables, storage, and electrification. Fortescue alone has announced plans to employ up to 1,800 electricians as part of its transition to net-zero operations.
Demand outpaces supply
Electrical trades are consistently identified as one of the most acute workforce shortages in the sector. Renewable projects increasingly compete with construction, mining, infrastructure, and data centre developments for the same pool of qualified workers — further strengthening demand.
With thousands of renewable projects planned, substantial ongoing investment, and persistent workforce shortages, qualified electricians can expect excellent job security, strong earning potential, and diverse opportunities throughout Australia for many years to come.