Australia has the potential to become a global leader in renewable energy. With an extensive coastline, ample space for large-scale solar and hydro projects, and an abundance of sunshine, the opportunities for renewable energy development in the country are vast but still largely untapped.
The Australian government has set a target to meet 20% of the nation’s energy needs through renewables within the next five years. To achieve this, the current government scheme anticipates an investment of $22 billion in public subsidies alongside $15 billion from private industry. These figures highlight the significant long-term opportunities that renewable energy presents, both commercially and residentially. In fact, in 2013, global investment in renewable energy surpassed fossil fuel investment for the first time, with the worldwide clean energy market valued at approximately US$250 billion.
Jobs in Renewable Energy
A recent study from the United States found that job creation in clean energy was three times higher than in traditional fossil fuel industries, even with the surge in fracking. Not only are more jobs being created, but experience from the US and Europe suggests that jobs in renewable energy tend to offer higher wages and require greater expertise compared to fossil fuel-related jobs. On average, wages in the clean energy sector are 13% higher than in the rest of the energy industry.
Access Equipment Hire for Renewable Energy Projects
Despite uncertainty over future government support for renewables, the commercial potential of the industry is drawing in investors. Access equipment jobs in renewable energy are not limited to constructing wind turbines and electrical infrastructure. There are also growing opportunities in retrofitting buildings with solar water heating, installing photovoltaic (PV) panels, and even setting up geothermal heating systems.
The option to hire access equipment rather than purchase it outright provides an additional revenue stream for existing businesses and allows startups to grow without major capital investment. For solar panel installation on existing buildings, boom lifts and cherry pickers are the most commonly used equipment. Given that solar panels for residential use weigh between 15 and 30 kilograms, most elevated work platforms (EWPs) can handle both the equipment and the workforce needed for installation.
Elevated Work Platform Hire for Electrical Work
When working on difficult-to-access sites, one of the most versatile solutions is insulated travel towers. GMH’s fleet includes models ranging from 13 to 28 meters, available in two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, and all-terrain configurations to accommodate projects in any location.
With a reach of up to 24 meters, no tail swing, and extendable baskets, insulated travel towers allow workers to safely access electrical infrastructure while remaining protected from high-voltage hazards. For uneven terrain, it is essential to choose travel towers equipped with self-leveling technology and rollover protection to ensure worker safety.
Renewable energy projects are booming, and hiring the right access equipment can help businesses maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and take advantage of this rapidly growing industry.