n By Keith Hatch
“Construction apprenticeships need to be well valued and well paid, giving people the skills they need to progress into a career building the green future the country wants.”
Unite isn’t alone in highlighting the challenges ahead unless there is focus on skills. Last year the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) warned that a nationwide shortage of skilled electricians in the UK could hinder the country in meeting its net zero goals.
The UK’s electricians’ shortage could hinder the safe roll-out of green technologies, such as EV chargers, energy storage systems and solar PV, all of which require the skillset of competent, qualified electricians.
At the time Andrew Eldred, chief operating officer at the ECA said, “The government’s vision for economic growth, clean energy, and expanding opportunities depends on tackling the broken electrical skills pipeline head-on.
“Building a robust supply of apprentices and creating meaningful, employer-backed pathways for those finishing classroom-based courses are essential steps toward a stronger, safer, and more sustainable future.”
Unite has been working with the ECA, industry bodies, education providers and employers and local authorities to set up pioneering new Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliances in areas such as Greater
Manchester and the West Midlands. These alliances aim to strengthen local electrotechnical skills development and careers provision within the regions and Unite has been on board from the start to ensure the voice of electrical workers is at the heart of these initiatives.
Jason said, “Developing a competent electrical engineering and contracting workforce in sufficient numbers is essential to meet the UK’s requirements for economic growth, energy security, protection of the environment, and public safety.
“Unite looks forward to working further with ECA in securing the very best in electrical skills for society.”
This year a deal negotiated by Unite saw wages for first and second year electrical apprentices rise by over £1,000 a year above the minimum wage.
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said, “This deal shows the power of sectoral bargaining in action. Thousands of electrical apprentices will see real material uplifts to their pay from next month. Unite is unrelenting in defending and improving our members’ jobs, pay and conditions.”
Jason added, “Electrical apprentices work hard and deserve a fair rate for the job. Unite is pleased to have secured this deal, which is not only important for the current crop of apprentices but will also help drive recruitment into the industry and close the skills gap.”
FIND OUT MORE
Unite is campaigning for a major uplift in pay rates for fully qualified electricians with its Back the claim campaign.
Talk to your workplace rep for more details.
23 unite buildingWORKER Autumn 2025
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