Electrical sector key to successful transition to net zero, says leading academic
Author : Professor Sean Smith, University of Edinburgh
26 September 2024
The electrical sector is the “keystone” to the ongoing transition to net zero, and will play a significant role in the step change towards renewables.
In a keynote speech to guests at the annual President's lunch for SELECT, Scotland’s largest construction trade association, one of the foremost experts in construction innovation, Professor Sean Smith of University of Edinburgh, who is Chair of Future Construction at the School of Engineering and Director of the Centre for Future Infrastructure at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, will also stress the opportunities ahead for the future workforce and the importance of the role of schools and the education sector in encouraging it.
As the two-time recipient of the Queen’s Anniverary Prize for his teams’ impact on sustainability, low-carbon construction growth and society, Smith will make his comments at the third SELECT President’s Lunch (sponsored by Electrium), at the voco Grand Central Hotel in Glasgow on Friday 27th September 2024.
Professor Smith, who has won a number of key awards and nominations for the positive impact of applied research for industry, society and the environment, will say that the electrical industry has a significant role not just in Scotland but beyond.
He will tell the assembled guests, including senior decision-makers from across the construction industry, “The change in the generation of primary energy towards renewables by so many countries at the same time is unprecedented.
“There are great opportunities ahead for our future workforce, and the importance of schools and the education sector to help the pathway into working in this sector cannot be understated. This applies to both large- and small-scale electrical works, from major electrical infrastructure to the installation of low-carbon heating systems and EV charging points.
Professor Sean Smith, University of Edinburgh
“The critical and ‘keystone’ role of the electrical sector will support the net zero transition across both transport and buildings – our two largest emissions sectors, accounting for 47 percent of all emissions.
“Electricians will have a major responsibility in underpinning proactive health and safety approaches and certified work, which supports trust and engagement for the wide range of clients they will work for and with, in the net zero journey and transition.”
Professor Smith has previously said that one of his greatest hopes would be for net zero outcomes in all countries to be accelerated or supported where societies collectively and internationally move into a carbon-negative approach.
He has said this could perhaps be facilitated through the formation of multiple net zero acceleration centres around the world, funded by philanthropic partners in countries, all exchanging knowledge and data to solve and deliver major impactful solutions.
SELECT Managing Director Alan Wilson, who will introduce the event, said, “We are pleased that a figure of Professor Smith’s prominence will be able to join us as we reflect on the vital role of our industry in a time of such historical change.
“The message is clear that the future is electric, and it is very gratifying to see that so many young people want to play their part in the transition to net zero.
“An apprenticeship in the electrical industry in Scotland is seen not just a path to a professional and highly-rewarding career, but as a means of making a contribution to a greener and more sustainable society.
“Our future heating and energy demands will be met by technology such as solar panels, battery storage and electric heating, which means that electricians will play an ever-increasing role in all our lives.”
The event will also be addressed by SELECT President Mike Stark, who will present the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award to a senior figure from the construction industry.
• A full report on the President’s Lunch, including images, will appear in the upcoming edition of SELECT’s stakeholder magazine, cabletalk.
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