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Nazrin Abdul

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As climate change poses a significant challenge globally, governments are increasingly prioritizing the transition to renewable energy resources. Azerbaijan is no exception, recognizing that sustainable energy initiatives not only address environmental concerns but also bolster economic growth and create employment opportunities.

The implementation of renewable energy projects is vital for enhancing workforce employment. As green energy initiatives proliferate across Azerbaijan, there is an urgent need to prepare the unemployed and job-seeking citizens for the modern labor market. The State Employment Agency, under the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, is actively engaged in various training programs aimed at equipping individuals with the necessary skills for the renewable energy sector.

This year has been designated "Year of Solidarity for the Green World" in Azerbaijan, aligning with the country's commitment to environmental sustainability. In response, the State Agency for Vocational Education has introduced new specialties focused on alternative energy. According to the agency's director, beginning in the 2024-2025 academic year, new qualifications such as solar panel repair technicians, wind turbine repair technicians, and alternative energy systems management specialists will be offered. Furthermore, training for hybrid and electric vehicle repair specialists has already commenced, and a program for managing newly developed irrigation systems is set to launch.

We discussed green energy projects and their potential to create new business opportunities in Azerbaijan with British expert Neil Watson.

Job creation potential: What specific sectors within green energy (such as solar, wind, or hydroelectric) show the most promise for job creation in Azerbaijan, and what types of roles are likely to emerge in these sectors?

- Solar energy is already being installed widely in the Azerbaijani liberated territories, which are being rebranded as smart cities. I have noted these installations particularly during my visits to Lachin and Shusha. There is a great opportunity for Azerbaijani factories to produce such technologies, and there is already a massive business in undertaking these installations. This trend is expected to increase as Azerbaijan seeks to export a higher proportion of its oil and gas while generating more of its energy from solar sources. Azerbaijan has a strong history of hydroelectric power and is well-positioned with specialists to become heavily involved in wave energy. Wind farms, however, are still at a nascent stage; as generating capacity increases, it is logical that they be installed in the City of Winds (Baku). Former petrochemical sites can certainly be redeveloped or repurposed to produce all such technologies in Azerbaijan.

Skills and training: How can Azerbaijan ensure that its workforce is adequately trained for the jobs created by the green energy sector? What programs or initiatives are needed to support this?

- There needs to be a state program for the production of green energy technologies in Azerbaijan, replacing factories that produce components related to oil and gas. Additionally, there should be a program for retrofitting existing buildings with renewable energy, and all new constructions should be thermally efficient and incorporate renewable energy by default.

Global comparisons: Can you share examples from other countries that have successfully transitioned to green energy and created jobs? What lessons can Azerbaijan learn from these experiences?

- No economies have completely transitioned, but in UK cities, electric vehicles and related infrastructure have been installed widely, accompanied by tax incentives for transitioning to electric vehicles. Moreover, if solar panels are installed and the energy is fed back to the national grid, the government provides payment, with the cost of the panels and installation being subsidized.

Economic impact: In addition to direct job creation, how might the growth of the green energy sector in Azerbaijan impact the broader economy, including related industries and local communities?

- I believe that the integration of renewable energy across Azerbaijan will result in job creation, particularly in the liberated territories, where there is currently no industry other than agriculture. Factories can be constructed, and renewable energy is reliable as it is generated automatically and stored in substations until it is used. This should help ensure a consistent and reliable supply across the country.

As Azerbaijan embraces renewable energy initiatives, the nation stands at the forefront of a transformative shift that promises not only to combat climate change but also to invigorate its economy. The potential for job creation in solar, wind, and hydroelectric industries is immense, particularly in newly liberated territories, which can be reimagined as hubs of innovation and sustainable development. By drawing on global best practices and investing in local talent, Azerbaijan is poised to harness its rich natural resources and expertise, paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous future.

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Nazrin Abdul is AzerNews’ staff journalist, you can follow her on Twitter: Nazrin

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