According to a study released a couple of days ago, more than 2200 commercial divers are needed for the offshore wind energy sector in Europe, if this sector is going to proceed with the planned expansion of offshore wind capacity. The projected number corresponds to a period of the next six years.

The study/report was commissioned by the subsea training provider – The Underwater Centre – in Fort William, Scotland. It was carried out by analyst company Douglas Westwood, which focused on the installation and maintenance activities involved in offshore wind projects, over the next six years.

According to the findings, 1700 divers will be needed during the installation phase which is to bring 17.7 GW of new capacity online. The report emphasizes 2013 as the year of peak demand when about 500 divers will be needed mostly in the UK and Germany.

Some of the key findings include:

• 1.3 divers per 10 turbines are needed during installations
• 2010-2016: most of the required divers will operate at depths ranging from 20-39 meters
• depths of 40 meters or more will become more frequent over time
• before 2008, installation depths were between 10-18 meters; nowadays 80% of the projects are installed at depths of more than 20 meters

Renewable energy industry is facing problems with skilled worker shortages, and these anticipated problems will continue as the industry picks up speed over the coming years. If you are feeling a bit adventurous, there may be lucrative career in your near future. It pays well, but you'll have to invest at least GBP 2900 (including VAT) to complete the basic commercial SCUBA diver course, and up to GBP 13,000 for a an industry package course. There are many additional courses as well, if a diver wishes to continue specializing and train for broader expertise.

[via: The Underwater Centre]