How to Become a Renewable Energy Engineer
With a government pledge of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the Australian renewable energy industry is more important than ever. It is therefore no surprise that the demand for renewable energy engineers is projected to grow as a result.
The renewable energy sector is developing quickly and it’s an exciting and innovative career path with a wide range of opportunities. As a renewable energy engineer you will be contributing to building a better future and be at the forefront of this crucial sector.
What does a renewable energy engineer do?
Renewable energy engineers work on the production of energy through natural resources such as wind, hydro, solar or marine power. They look at ways of reducing the impact on the environment by researching and developing new technologies that will result in cleaner ways to supply energy.
What do you need?
To pursue a career in energy engineering you will need to have a degree in an engineering or scientific subject. For example, renewable energy, environmental engineering, earth sciences etc. A degree apprenticeship is also another avenue you could look at taking. It’s not essential, however if your first degree is not an engineering or science related subject, a postgraduate qualification may also be valuable.
- You can work in any of the areas find opportunities such as:
- Renewable energy project designer or manager
- Renewable energy power generation engineering (hydro, wind, biomass)
- Grid connection engineer
- Power systems engineer
- Process engineer and analyst
- Electrified transportation engineer
- Solar PV engineer
- Renewable energy modeller/analyst
- Microgrid, electric mobility and battery storage engineer
- Renewable energy entrepreneur
- Renewable energy accountant, auditor, innovator, or consultant
As a renewable energy engineer you will need to have the following skills and interests:
- An interest in science, technology, and the environment
- Excellent problem solving and analytical skills
- Mathematic and scientific ability
- Strong IT skills
- Be able to work as part of a team and independently
- Knowledge of legislation
- Good communication skills
- Project management skills
- An ability to understand complex data