Shortage of Electricians in the UK
Skilled trades are among the most in-demand jobs in the UK, yet employers are struggling to fill vacancies. The demand for electricians is far exceeding the supply, presenting the perfect opportunity for professionals in other skilled trades to add electrical work to their business and capitalise on this growing need.
How many electricians are needed in the UK?
Findings from the UK Trade Skills Index indicate a growing skills gap in the sector and an increased demand for electricians, with 104,000 additional professionals required by 2032. Additionally, next year there are approximately 75,000 new job openings for electricians alone.
The electrical industry is one of the worst affected by the skills shortage due to failing to employ enough candidates to keep up with the growing demand, including the demand for women in skilled trades. In some cases, young people simply are not interested in learning a trade or are being taught skills for which jobs do not exist.
Older contractors are also moving out of skilled trade industries, some due to recession led retirement and some because of a career change, creating a gap in the market. There are still vital electrical jobs that need to be carried out in homes around the UK, despite the lack of new entrants into the electrical trade.
Where is the biggest need for electricians?
Whilst the UK as a whole is experiencing a shortage of electricians, certain areas are struggling more than others. According to a report from IronmongeryDirect, electricians are the second most sought-after trade, with 287,902 monthly searches.
In Cardiff, electricians are the most in-demand of all tradespeople, but Worcester ranks highest based on searches per 1,000 residents.
- Worcester – 2,088 monthly searches (20 per 1,000 residents)
- Bedford – 1,723 (19)
- Preston – 1,783 (18)
- Lincoln – 1,696 (16)
- Colchester – 2,149 (16)
Electrical apprenticeships
Current apprenticeship schemes are struggling to attract enough candidates, leading to a critical shortage of electricians. Expanding these programs is essential to address the growing demand for skilled professionals. Apprenticeships offer a practical solution by combining hands-on experience with formal education, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified electricians. By investing in these programs and encouraging businesses to hire an electrical apprentice, we can bridge the skills gap, meet future demands, and support local economies effectively. For those interested in a rewarding career, becoming an electrician can start by enrolling in an apprenticeship program.
Improve your electrical skills
The shortage of electricians has significantly increased the value of skilled tradespeople, leading to a rise in wages and earnings. As the demand for essential services continues to rise amid a growing skills shortage, wage inflation is expected to continue until workforce numbers increase.
Amid the current uncertainty in the UK, there has never been a better time to become your own boss, grow your electrical business and unlock unlimited potential. With a skilled trade such as electrics, you can not only take advantage of the growing gap in the market, but you can secure your future with a skill for life.
To stay ahead of the competition and ensure industry success, it’s crucial to stay up to date with the current industry trends. If you’re already working as an electrician, now is the perfect time to seize this opportunity and expand your skill set and gain further qualifications.
At Electrician Courses 4U, we offer a variety of electrical courses tailored to meet industry demand and capitalise on the current shortage of electricians. This includes Level 3 NVQ Electrical Installation to train in electrical installation techniques for both residential and commercial projects and Inspection and Testing, focusing on skills needed to conduct thorough electrical inspections and testing to ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards.
With the increasing trend towards electric vehicles, the demand for EV charger installations is on the rise, making it a lucrative specialisation within the electrical trade with the Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger Installation Course.
Investing in these courses not only enhances your expertise but also opens up new career opportunities in a rapidly growing sector.
Opportunities for associate skilled trades
The total number of electricians is failing to keep up with the current demand and it’s a chance for skilled associate trades to capitalise, whether you are employed or self-employed.
By incorporating electrical services into your business, you are not only building on your existing skill set, but you are also expanding your customer base, offering services such as smart meters, heat management systems and renewable energy solutions.
If you are a builder or a plumber, consider becoming qualified in electrical work instead of subcontracting it out. Taking on electrical tasks yourself puts you in control of the entire project, strengthens your company’s capabilities, and expands your service offerings.
Now is the ideal time for you to take advantage of this opportunity and step into a new career path as an electrician -a profession known for its high pay, strong demand, and esteemed qualifications.We offer intensive electrician courses for people in all situations, from complete beginners to those from associate trades. Take a look at our Domestic Electrician Course today!
Train to become an electrician with EC4U
Train to become an electrician with EC4U and capitalise on the expanding skills gap and shortage of electricians! Browse a range of electrical courses, with many programs offering flexibility to study at your own pace. With electrics on your side, you can start or expand your business, customer reach and diversify the services you offer!