Solarcamps for Future: Practical Training to Combat the Shortage of Skilled Workers

Helmut Göbel presents the SolarCamps for Future initiative at the Greentech.LIVE conference in Hamburg. As a committed climate activist, he and his team are dedicated to engaging young people, career changers, and underrepresented groups in the solar trade. In his presentation, he explained how SolarCamps For Future can help alleviate the shortage of skilled workers in the photovoltaic sector and actively drive forward the energy transition.

The Challenge: Shortage of Skilled Workers in the Solar Trade

According to Göbel, there will be a shortage of around 100,000 skilled workers in the renewable energy sector by 2035 – especially in the skilled trades. Many companies have difficulties attracting young people to the profession, and women are severely underrepresented in this field. Additionally, there is currently no independent, recognized training occupation for solar technology.

This is where the SolarCamps for Future initiative comes in, which Göbel presents as a practical solution: practice-oriented training that teaches basic skills in a short time and sparks interest in the profession.

Greentech SolarCamp: Cooperation and Financing

A central point in Göbel’s presentation was the question of financing and cooperation. Currently, the commitment of cities and companies varies. The city of Munich, for example, is already providing active support, while other regions are still in the start-up phase.

Initial collaborations with the photovoltaic industry, such as with SMA (manufacturer of inverters), show that companies are increasingly recognizing the potential of this initiative. Elektrizitätswerke Schönau (EWS) has already provided funding to relieve the financial burden on local camps, and the integration of refugees is of particular concern to Göbel.

International Collaboration and Expansion

The first SolarCamp to support reconstruction is currently underway in western Ukraine – organized by the same initiators who launched the Berlin SolarCamp.

The SolarCamps for Future team is providing manuals, training materials, and IT support. In addition, regular online information events are offered to support future organizers.

With SolarCamps for Future, Helmut Göbel has managed to establish a practice-oriented solution to the shortage of skilled workers in the renewable energy sector. Through engaging training, direct practice, and close cooperation with craft businesses, participants can find an easy entry into the solar trade.

The energy transition needs skilled workers – and SolarCamps offer an effective way to acquire them.