Amidst the Philippine energy transition, the power industry is facing a growing talent shortage. This is due to a number of factors, including the retirement of experienced workers, the shift to renewable energy, and the global competition for talent.
According to Aboitiz Power Corporation (AboitizPower) Chief People Officer MaLu Inofre, there is a need to build a skilled talent pipeline that can effectively adjust and work with the fast-paced transformation within the industry’s energy mix, digital systems, and regulations.
“It has become exceedingly vital to ensure that workforce skills align with the changes of the times,” she said. “In the same way, attracting talent in a competitive global market is crucial to a sustainable, efficient, and innovative Philippine power sector that meets our country’s growing energy demands and sustainability objectives.”
Another factor influencing the labor shortage is the shift in the type of skills sought by employers, especially as the sector tries to balance the entry of renewable energy whilst maintaining traditional energy systems.
“Knowing this, upskilling will be key to facilitating a just transition for those who will be affected by the transition to a greener economy, as well as the new generation of workers. It is imperative that we successfully cultivate both thermal and renewable energy so that we can ensure a reliable and affordable energy supply for the country,” Inofre said.
The Philippine power industry is facing a number of challenges, but the talent shortage is one of the most pressing. Upskilling and talent development will be key to bridging the gap and ensuring that the industry has the workforce it needs to succeed in the future.
