Towards 2030, the demand for workers to support Denmark’s ongoing transition towards a more energy-resilient system is set to rise significantly. With high political ambitions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, advancing electrification, and developing innovative technical solutions, the labour market is already calling for more hands on deck. Demand will increase across all sectors, impacting both those with academic degrees and those with vocational qualifications.
With larger ambitions and a shrinking workforce, it will not be possible to meet future labour market needs in Denmark unless action is taken. Already today, there is a shortage of skilled workers such as plumbers, welders, structural engineers, ground and concrete workers, and electricians. Similarly, there is growing demand for engineers, marine engineers, and other technically trained professionals needed to achieve Denmark’s climate and energy targets.
There is a clear link between investment and workforce needs – and if the necessary skills are not available, Denmark will be unable to fully realise the benefits of its investments in energy resilience and sustainable infrastructure. In the worst case, a shortage of skilled workers could lead to delays in achieving climate goals, higher costs, and lower efficiency of the solutions needed to build a renewable and resilient energy future.
The Solution Lies in the Workforce
It is crucial to engage those who currently face barriers to entering or remaining in the labour market. Denmark’s demographic shift means that large age cohorts are retiring, while fewer young people aged 20–29 are entering the workforce over the next two decades.
At Mentor to Impact, we see a major opportunity to support individuals who are currently outside the labour market. We therefore collaborate closely with trade unions to develop competencies and better equip tomorrow’s workforce. Read more about our collaboration with the trade unions here.
Together, we are also advancing the political agenda by sharing insights and viewpoints to strengthen the link between skills development, labour market participation, and Denmark’s energy ambitions.
To Strengthen Denmark’s Energy Transition and Economic Resilience, We Must:
- Secure lifelong learning and continuous skills development as needs evolve.
- Support individuals outside the labour market into employment or education, especially the many young people who need extra assistance to get started.
- Create better conditions for older workers, enabling them to fully realise their potential during their remaining years in the workforce, and promote frameworks for lifelong learning.
- Leverage digitalisation to alleviate labour shortages and strengthen technical and transversal skills for the renewable energy labour market.
- Increase the share of international workers under fair, collectively bargained conditions.
Mentor to Impact’s mission is to serve as the skills-building link between education providers, businesses, and political actors to help deliver a more sustainable and resilient future.
