The energy sector is living through a transformative moment in more ways than one. Not only has the novel Coronavirus upended traditional workplace practices, ushering in the era of the hybrid workforce, but significant changes to supply/demand metrics and the need for long-term sustainable energy have put clean energy in the proverbial spotlight.
Renewable energy is on pace to produce more energy than coal for the first time in history, reflecting the sector’s growing significance. However, according to the International Energy Agency, complications related to COVID-19 threaten to stunt the sector’s growth, creating a need for companies to adapt quickly.
To maintain operational continuity, maximize opportunity, and compete in an increasingly digital-first environment, green energy companies will need to become increasingly agile, adapting their approach for a post-COVID-19 reality. Remote operations capacity, the ability to communicate, collaborate, and interact with physical infrastructure, will play a prominent role in this moment. Here’s why:
Remote work helps green energy attract top talent.
Emerging green energy companies are competing with Silicon Valley and other tech-centric sectors for the top talent. Although COVID-19 has forced many companies to shed industry jobs, long term trends suggest that renewable energy companies will need to convince qualified young professionals to join their ranks to ensure that they have adequate staffing to bring their plans to fruition. Before the pandemic, the industry faced a looming skills shortage, which will only become more problematic as new remote opportunities arise in other sectors.