What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) has released a report indicating that 75% of energy professionals worldwide are facing workforce shortages, with the figure rising to 90% in regions like the Middle East and North Africa. The 2025 Energy Jobs & Market Trends Survey reveals a mismatch between steady demand for efficiency and the availability of skilled professionals. The report suggests that AI-based energy optimization solutions could address this gap, as training new specialists takes years. The situation is exacerbated by the impending retirement of over one-third of professionals within the next decade.
Why It's Important?
The workforce shortage in the energy sector poses a significant challenge to achieving climate goals, as the demand for energy professionals remains consistent despite global political and economic challenges. AI-based tools are seen as a rapid solution to improve energy efficiency, allowing professionals to focus on strategic tasks rather than daily management. The report highlights the importance of digitalization in facility management, with AI algorithms optimizing energy consumption and reducing waste. This approach is cost-effective compared to deep renovations and can deliver immediate savings.
What's Next?
The report suggests that AI implementation is becoming increasingly important for efficiency, with 51% of professionals rating it as 'extremely' or 'very' important. The industry is expected to continue adopting AI-based platforms to address the shortage of specialists and high renovation costs. Government funding limitations and budget pressures remain concerns, but AI solutions offer a way to optimize energy consumption without compromising comfort or productivity. The report indicates ongoing projects in various countries and plans for expansion.
Beyond the Headlines
The report explores the potential of AI to transform energy management practices, highlighting the inadequacies of conventional approaches. AI-driven systems can analyze live building data and make strategic decisions to save energy, ensuring adaptive responses to environmental factors. The report emphasizes the need for a shift in management practices to leverage AI for sustainable energy solutions, addressing both workforce shortages and cost challenges.
AI Generated Content
Do you find this article useful?
