Mapping and Forecasting Labour Force in Solar and Wind Farms in Central Queensland

About the Research Profile

This project is funded by Central Queensland Power (CQP) and aims to develop a workforce mapping and forecasting framework for the renewable energy sector in Central Queensland. First, it focuses on the specific jobs needed and trend during construction and operations in solar and wind farms and it estimates the employment trend. Then it identifies the specific roles required during the construction and operation of solar and wind farms. The study then provides a detailed assessment of job categories within these industries and examines how investment influences local and regional employment. Forecasts indicate significant workforce growth by 2029, particularly for technicians, electricians, installers, maintenance personnel, and plant engineers. The research also highlights challenges such as labour shortages, training gaps, and worker mobility, while identifying opportunities for upskilling, local employment growth, and transitioning workers from fossil fuels to renewables. 

Impact

Strengthened Central Queensland’s renewable energy future by workforce need, training priorities, and enabling industry and government to plan confidently for solar and wind energy jobs.

Partners

Project lead: Professor Delwar Akbar 

Is a research leader at CQUniversity with extensive experience in regional economic development, supply chain analysis, and placed-based development planning. His work focuses on developing data-driven strategies, enhance value chain efficiency, and improve economic resilience in regional Australia.  As the lead investigator for the Central Queensland Renewable Energy Labour Force Mapping project, Professor Akbar applied his expertise in labour market forecasting, data analytics, and stakeholder engagement to guide the development of evidence-based insights into workforce needs for solar and wind farms. Learn more.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals

At CQUniversity we are committed to embedding sustainable practice in our operations, interactions and relationships, underpinned by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Sustainability sits as one of our strategic pillars within our Strategic Plan 2019-2023.

This project aligns to the following SDG Goals:

  • Affordable and Clean Energy (Goal 7)
  • Decent Work and Economic Growth (Goal 8)
  • Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure (Goal 9)
  • Climate Action (Goal 13)

Learn more about our commitment to Sustainable Development Goals.

Affordable and Clean Energy - Top 40 logo 2025
Decent Work and Economic Growth - Top 300 logo 2025