Australia’s move to expand support for commercial rooftop solar is expected to create further demand for skilled engineers across the renewable-energy sector.
The Federal Government has announced that eligibility under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme will increase from 100kW to one megawatt for medium-scale rooftop solar installations. The change is designed to help businesses, warehouses, factories and farms install larger solar systems, reduce electricity costs and make better use of unused roof space.
While the announcement is positive for businesses and Australia’s clean-energy ambitions, Engineers Australia says the transition will depend heavily on the country’s engineering workforce.
Commercial solar systems require far more than the installation of panels. Projects need engineers with expertise in electrical and structural design, power systems, grid connection, energy storage, safety, commissioning and long-term system performance.
Engineers Australia Chief Engineer Katherine Richards AM CSC said Australia had already demonstrated the value of household rooftop solar, but commercial buildings represented the next major opportunity.
The organisation has warned, however, that Australia must strengthen its engineering capability if it is to deliver renewable-energy projects safely, reliably and at the scale required.
Australia is already facing a significant engineering skills shortage. Engineers Australia estimates that around 150,000 additional engineers will be needed over the next decade, while approximately 70,000 engineers are expected to retire during that period.
For qualified engineers considering migration to Australia, this continued investment in renewable energy, infrastructure and productivity presents an important opportunity. Engineers remain central to Australia’s ability to design, build, connect and maintain the systems that will support the country’s energy transition.
The demand is not limited to one engineering discipline. Electrical, civil, structural, mechanical, environmental and power-systems engineers are all likely to play a role as commercial solar and broader renewable-energy projects expand.
At New World Immigration, we assist eligible engineers with understanding their Australian migration options, including skills assessments through Engineers Australia, English-language requirements, points-tested skilled visas, state nomination and employer-sponsored pathways.
If you are an engineer looking to explore your Australian migration options, contact New World Immigration for a personalised assessment.