The GETI 2025 report highlights the urgent need to address skills gaps in renewable energy, as traditional and transitional sectors adapt to decarbonisation, rising salaries, and workforce challenges amid global energy transition

As concerns grow over a widening skills gap that could jeopardise the future of renewable energy, a timely new report underscores the urgent need for action within the industry.

With the global energy transition at a critical juncture, closing this gap has never been more vital to securing a sustainable future.

The Global Energy Talent Index Report (GETI) draws on the views of about 11,000 energy professionals of 150 nationalities.

The 2025 report dives into the past five years of data to present a five-year trends report, exploring the challenges, opportunities, and movements that have shaped the journey of energy businesses, professionals, and hiring managers.

This year’s report looks a little different as it has condensed its insights into three chapters to better reflect how the industry is evolving. Petrochemicals and oil and gas have been combined into the Traditional Energy chapter, nuclear and power into the Transitional Energy chapter, and previous years’ Renewables chapter has become the Future of Energy.

TRADITIONAL ENERGY

Traditional energy, encompassing oil, gas, and petrochemicals, has undergone significant changes over the past five years.

While there is still strong demand for fossil fuels, the pressure to decarbonise is reshaping the sector.

According to the GETI 2025 report, 65 per cent of professionals believe their organisation is doing enough to enable the energy transition, an 11 per cent increase from 2023.

This reflects a growing commitment to cleaner energy production and investment in technologies to reduce emissions.

Despite efforts to transition, traditional energy companies are still vital to global energy security.

The industry has experienced fluctuations in hiring trends, with a notable increase in salaries.

Around 71 per cent of professionals in this sector expect a pay raise next year, signaling confidence in job stability and career progression.

Currently, half of the workforce reports an increase in earnings, and 26 per cent have enjoyed raises exceeding 5 per cent. Hiring managers echo this optimism, with 61 per cent reporting salary increases.

The aging workforce remains a concern, with the proportion of professionals aged 35-44 growing from 28 per cent in 2021 to 32 per cent in 2025, while younger professionals are showing declining interest in traditional energy roles.

Geopolitical uncertainty continues to impact investment in the sector. In regions like North America and Australia, policy shifts and fluctuating government support have made companies hesitant to commit to large-scale projects.

Meanwhile, investment in engineering techniques and technologies is seen as a key opportunity, with 37 per cent of professionals identifying it as a driver for future growth.

The implementation of AI and automation is also gaining traction, improving efficiency and safety within traditional energy operations.

TRANSITIONAL ENERGY

The transitional energy sector, comprising nuclear and power industries, is at the heart of the global shift toward cleaner energy. Nuclear energy, in particular, is gaining momentum as a low-carbon alternative, with investors pushing for the development of small modular reactors (SMRs).

These reactors are seen as more scalable and cost-effective compared to traditional nuclear plants, positioning nuclear power as a critical component of the energy transition.

The GETI 2025 report highlights that 66 per cent of professionals in transitional energy believe their company is doing enough to support the transition, though opinions vary by region.

The workforce in this sector is experiencing rising salaries, with 74 per cent of professionals expecting a pay raise next year.

Currently, 54 per cent of professionals report salary increases, and 24 per cent state that their pay has risen by more than 5 per cent.

Among hiring managers, 66 per cent say pay has increased, with 37 per cent reporting raises of more than 5 per cent.

Global mobility trends are shifting, with fewer professionals willing to relocate for work. Now, only 74 per cent of professionals would consider relocating, down from 87 per cent in 2021.

While expatriate roles are still available, companies are focusing on local talent to fill critical positions.

Europe remains the preferred destination for relocation, but interest has dropped from 37 per cent in 2023 to 33 per cent in 2025.

The demand for skilled workers is also rising in Asia due to extensive power infrastructure investments.

One of the major challenges in transitional energy is talent retention. The sector competes with technology-driven industries, attracting skilled workers who seek innovation and cutting-edge developments.

To keep professionals engaged, companies are emphasising work-life balance, exposure to emerging technologies, and opportunities for career advancement.

Moreover, AI is playing an increasing role in shaping the industry, driving automation, and optimising operations to improve efficiency.

FUTURE OF ENERGY

The future of energy is centered on renewables, including wind, solar, and emerging technologies such as hydrogen.

The GETI 2025 report underscores the rapid growth of the renewable energy sector, with 65 per cent of professionals expressing satisfaction with their roles.

As the industry expands, salaries continue to rise, with 73 per cent of professionals expecting a pay increase next year.

Currently, 48 per cent report salary increases, with 21 per cent seeing raises of more than 5 per cent. Among hiring managers, 61 per cent say pay has increased, with 32 per cent reporting significant raises.

One of the most significant trends in the future of energy is the evolving nature of global mobility.

Unlike previous years, fewer professionals are willing to relocate, preferring to advance their careers within their home regions.

Now, only 73 per cent would consider relocating, a 12 per cent drop from 2021.

Employers are adapting by focusing on local hiring strategies and leveraging digital collaboration tools to engage a global workforce.

Career progression remains a top priority for renewable energy professionals. However, competition from adjacent sectors, particularly technology, poses a challenge.

The tech industry continues to attract skilled workers with promises of innovation and rapid career growth.

In 2025, 43 per cent of professionals are open to switching to another energy sector, while 26 per cent are considering a move to a non-energy sector, with technology and manufacturing being the most popular choices.

Diversity and inclusion also remain key focus areas in the future of energy. The GETI 2025 report notes that while gender representation has remained relatively static, with women making up 22 per cent of the workforce, efforts are being made to attract a more diverse workforce.

Companies are implementing policies to create inclusive work environments, recognising the importance of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and sustainability.

Hydrogen is emerging as a major player in the renewable energy landscape, with increased investment and government support.

Green hydrogen projects are gaining traction, and professionals with expertise in hydrogen production are in high demand.

As the industry matures, hydrogen is expected to play a crucial role in decarbonising sectors such as transportation and heavy industry. Moreover, advances in engineering techniques and new digitally enabled skills are considered among the top opportunities for the future, with 37 per cent of professionals identifying these areas as key drivers of growth.

SETTING PRIORITIES

The GETI 2025 report provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving energy landscape. Traditional energy remains a cornerstone of global energy security, though it is adapting to meet decarbonisation goals.

Transitional energy is experiencing growth, with nuclear power playing a pivotal role in the shift toward low-carbon solutions.

Meanwhile, the future of energy is defined by the rapid expansion of renewables, evolving workforce dynamics, and emerging technologies such as hydrogen.

As the energy transition accelerates, companies must prioritise talent development, innovation, and sustainability.

By addressing workforce challenges and embracing technological advancements, the industry can navigate the complexities of the global energy market while ensuring a cleaner and more efficient future for generations to come.

By Abdulaziz Khattak