Often, it can feel like the manufacturing industry is being left behind in the modern economy, but renewable energy has proven to be a growing sector that relies on being able to build solar panels, wind turbines and other infrastructure. A new agreement between a trade union and a subsea cable company may lay the foundation for future developments.
New Agreement
These new jobs will be based on a voluntary recognition agreement between GMB Scotland, one of the largest unions supporting jobs in the energy sector, and XLCC, a company that creates subsea cables to transport energy. Leaders from both groups met in Glasgow to formalise the arrangement, and to make a request for the government to offer support. It is thought that collaboration presents the best chance of success for all sides, and if the agreement is successful and the workforce expands, it may lead to a full recognition agreement.
The Jobs
Under the agreement, when XLCC opens a factory in Hunterston, Ayrshire, to manufacture HVDC subsea cables, the 1200 skilled workers required will come from the union. The site of the factory will be a former coal terminal, truly representing the transition to green energy. The aim is to be consistent with government plans to both create 650,000 new jobs and to expand the production and use of renewables in the UK.
Implications
Just one factory manufacturing cables has implications for other industries that supply the materials and equipment. Similar deals could potentially be made for other renewable infrastructure, also supporting workers who fabricate parts or perform treatments like electroless nickel plating, such as that available at https://www.swmf.co.uk/surface-coatings/electroless-nickel-plating. If this agreement is successful, it could pave the way for similar projects in future.
The announcement of these new manufacturing jobs shows that the industry can continue to evolve to meet today’s needs, and that workers’ skills and experience can be utilised in modern manufacturing environments. If this scheme is successful, similar agreements may allow the UK manufacturing industry to remain sustainable for years to come.
