UK Electricians Shortage: Why Demand for Skilled Workers Has Never Been Higher
The UK is experiencing one of the most severe shortages of electricians in decades. Industry reports describe the situation as the worst since the late 1990s, with demand for skilled workers reaching record levels. For those considering a new career, or electricians already working and looking to upskill, the opportunities have never been stronger.
At Elec Training, we are seeing u nprecedented demand for courses across all levels — from beginner pathways through to specialist programmes such as inspection, testing, and EV installation. For learners weighing up their options, understanding the drivers of the skills gap is the first step towards seizing the opportunity.
Why the UK Has a Shortage of Electricians
Several factors are combining to create a perfect storm in the electrical labour market:
- Net Zero Commitments
The UK Government’s Net Zero Strategy: Build Back Greener sets ambitious targets. These include a ban on new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, restrictions on gas boilers in favour of heat pumps for new builds, and a rapid expansion of renewable and low-carbon technology. Every one of these changes requires electrical expertise.
- Scaling EV Infrastructure
As EV adoption grows, so does the need for charging infrastructure. Thousands of new charging points are required every year, creating sustained demand for installers. Electricians who complete an ev charger installation course are positioning themselves at the heart of this transition, combining traditional skills with the ability to work on one of the fastest growing technologies in the sector.
- An Ageing Workforce
Many experienced electricians are reaching retirement age, while some EU workers returned home following Brexit and f urlough. This has created a vacuum in the labour market that younger entrants and career changers must fill.
- Demand Across Construction and Maintenance
From housing developments to commercial refurbishments, electrical work is in demand across every part of the construction sector. Even routine maintenance and upgrades are stretching the available workforce, leaving employers urgently seeking qualified staff.
Routes into the Electrical Industry
The skills shortage has opened opportunities for people at all stages of life. Whether you are a school leaver, a career changer, or an experienced worker seeking formal recognition, there are structured training routes available.
New Entrants – Four-Step Training Programme
This pathway takes learners from entry-level through to NVQ Level 3 and AM2, with a clear progression of qualifications. It’s the most common self-funded route for adults entering the industry later in life.
Electrical Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships remain a funded option for those aged 16 and over. They combine classroom learning with workplace experience, culminating in the AM2S assessment.
Experienced Worker Route (EWR)
For those with at least five years of experience but no formal NVQ, the EWR offers a way to achieve the NVQ Level 3 and AM2E assessment. This recognises competence and allows access to the ECS Gold Card.
Step 4 NVQ Level 3 Route
If you already hold a Level 3 Diploma, you can join at Step 4 to complete the NVQ portfolio and AM2.
Each of these options ultimately leads to full recognition as a qualified electrician, opening the door to secure employment and higher pay.
Upskilling for Existing Electricians
For electricians already qualified, the current demand also creates new opportunities. Employers are increasingly seeking staff with advanced skills in specialist areas. Popular routes include:
- inspection and testing course – critical for proving safety and compliance on installations.
- EV installation training – as demand for chargers continues to rise.
- Solar PV and renewable technologies – aligned to the Net Zero agenda.
- 18th Edition Wiring Regulations – ensuring compliance with the latest BS 7671 standards.
These courses not only increase competence but also improve employability, pay prospects, and the ability to work independently.
Regional Opportunities
Learners in the Midlands have convenient access to training centres close to home. For example:
- Electrician Courses Dudley – serving the Black Country and wider West Midlands.
- Electrician Courses Telford – ideal for learners in Shropshire and surrounding areas.
By offering training locally, Elec Training makes it easier for learners to balance study with work and family commitments.
The Bigger Picture: JIB Pay and Long-Term Careers
Electricians are among the best-paid trades in the UK, particularly once fully qualified with an ECS Gold Card. Rates of pay are set by the Joint Industry Board (JIB), and recent deals have secured wage rises for electricians between 2026–2028.
This means learners entering now can expect strong career prospects, while existing electricians who continue to upskill are positioning themselves for long-term stability.
Why Train with Elec Training?
At Elec Training, our focus is on preparing learners for real industry needs. We deliver courses from entry-level through to specialist training, with clear progression routes and expert tutors. Whether you want to become a qualified electrician, complete your NVQ, or add skills such as EV installation, our programmes are structured to get you there.
We also help learners understand how their training connects to wider industry challenges: the Net Zero strategy, skills shortages, JIB pay, and the demand for r enewable technologies. This ensures every course is not just about passing an exam, but about building a sustainable career.
The shortage of electricians is not going away soon. Demand will remain high as the UK continues to electrify transport, heating, and construction. For learners and career changers, this is the ideal time to start training. For existing electricians, it is the moment to upskill and secure your place in the industry of the future.
Contact Elec Training today to explore your options, whether you are just starting out or ready to add advanced skills to your CV.
FAQs on the UK Electrician Shortage and Training Opportunities (September 2025)
Below is a comprehensive FAQ addressing the current electrician shortage in the UK, its causes, impacts, and training pathways, based on the latest industry data and reports as of September 15, 2025.
Why is there currently a shortage of electricians in the UK?
The UK faces a critical shortage of electricians due to surging demand outpacing supply, with estimates of 100,000+ new roles needed by 2032 amid infrastructure expansion, renewables growth, and an ageing workforce. Key factors include a post-Brexit exodus of EU workers (7% of construction labor pre-2016), insufficient training output (only ~10,000 apprentices annually vs. 20,000+ required), and high retirement rates (average age 42, with 30% over 50). The skills gap threatens net-zero goals, delaying EV chargers, solar PV, and energy upgrades, leading to project delays and rising wages. In 2025, vacancy rates hit 5–7%, with 66% of trades reporting cancellations due to shortages.
How has the government’s Net Zero strategy contributed to the skills gap?
The UK’s Net Zero strategy (e.g., 2050 carbon neutrality, 2035 petrol/diesel ban) has exacerbated the skills gap by accelerating demand for electrification without matching training investment, requiring 1.5–2 million green jobs by 2030 but facing a shortfall of 500,000+ skilled workers. Initiatives like the Clean Power 2030 Action Plan highlight that 1 in 5 jobs will shift, needing retraining for EV, heat pumps, and solar, but funding lags—e.g., only 3 million workers upskilled by 2025 vs. 10 million needed. The ECA warns this hinders safe rollout of green tech, with electrician numbers potentially falling 33% by 2038 without action, stalling decarbonization and growth.
What role does EV infrastructure play in driving demand for electricians?
EV infrastructure is a major driver, with the UK targeting 300,000 public chargers by 2030 and 80,998 points already in May 2025 (up 22% YoY), requiring 160,000+ jobs in installation and maintenance. Domestic installs surged 22% in H1 2025, fueled by £63 million government funding and OZEV grants, but shortages delay projects—e.g., only 11,464 new points added this year. Electricians are essential for wiring, load management, and BS 7671 compliance, creating 20–30% of new demand; skills in Mode 3/4 chargers and integration with solar/batteries boost roles, with 40% EV sales growth in 2023–2025 amplifying needs.
How has Brexit and an ageing workforce affected the industry?
Brexit has worsened shortages by reducing EU migrant labor (436,000 construction jobs lost since 2016, including ~7% electricians), with post-2020 visa rules limiting inflows and 66% of trades canceling work due to gaps. An ageing workforce compounds this: average electrician age is 42, with 30% over 50 and retirements projected at 100,000+ by 2030, outpacing new entrants (16% under 30 vs. 12% in wider ECI). This dual hit delays net-zero projects, raises costs, and strains productivity, with calls for immigration reform and training to fill voids.
What are the main training routes available for someone wanting to become an electrician today?
Main routes in 2025 include:
- Apprenticeship (3–4 years): Employer-sponsored, combining work (80%) and college (20%), leading to NVQ Level 3, AM2, and ECS Gold Card; free/subsidized, starting pay £12,000–£20,000. Preferred by industry (e.g., JTL centers).
- Fast-Track/College Diploma (1–2 years): City & Guilds 2365 Level 2/3 (£3,000–£7,000), plus NVQ Level 3 via portfolio and AM2; suits career changers, with part-time/evening options.
- Skills Bootcamps (4–16 weeks, free): DfE-funded for adults 19+, focusing on green skills; leads to jobs via providers like Optima ECT. All require 18th Edition; non-apprenticeship routes via colleges like Able Skills or Trade Skills 4U.
Can experienced workers without formal qualifications still gain recognition?
Yes, experienced workers (5+ years in electrotechnical roles) can gain recognition via the Experienced Worker Assessment (EWA), a fast-track to NVQ Level 3 and AM2E (6–12 months, £2,000–£4,000). It assesses via portfolio of work evidence, interviews, and practical tests, leading to ECS Gold Card and JIB grading without full diplomas. Providers like NICEIC, TESP, and City & Guilds 2346 support this for mature candidates, formalizing skills for scheme registration (e.g., NICEIC) and higher pay (£5,000–£10,000 boost).
What specialist skills are most in demand for existing electricians looking to upskill?
In-demand skills for 2025 include:
- EV Charging (C&G 2921-34): For 300,000+ points by 2030; 20–30% pay premium.
- Solar PV/Battery Storage (C&G 2399/EESS): Amid 19GW capacity; MCS accreditation for grants.
- Inspection & Testing (C&G 2391-52): For EICRs and compliance; essential for renewables.
- Smart Homes/Heat Pumps: For net-zero retrofits; 315% demand growth.
- Renewables Integration: Bundling EV/PV for whole-home electrification. Upskilling via 2–5 day CPD boosts earnings £5,000–£12,000/year.
How do JIB pay rates reflect the current demand for skilled electricians?
JIB rates (effective January 6, 2025) reflect demand with a 5% rise, totaling 14% over 2025–2028:
- Apprentice Stage 1: £8.16/hour national (£9.00 London).
- Electrician: £17.32/hour (£21.50 London); 3.95% 2026 rise.
- Approved Electrician: £18.78/hour (£23.00+ London); 4.6% 2027, 4.85% 2028.
- Technician: £20.00/hour (£24.50+ London). Sick pay: £210–£220/week. Demand drives premiums for specialists (e.g., EV +£5–£10/hour), with averages £33,000–£38,000 rising to £40,000–£60,000 for green skills, signaling shortages via annual uplifts.
Are there regional training options available for learners in areas like Dudley or Telford?
Yes, options near Dudley and Telford (West Midlands) include:
- Elec Training
How does training with Elec Training help learners take advantage of the skills shortage?
Elec Training (elec.training) helps learners capitalize on the shortage through flexible, accredited courses with guaranteed NVQ placements and work experience, addressing the 100,000+ gap by fast-tracking to qualification. Options include: Level 2/3 Diplomas (1–2 years, £3,000–£7,000), EWA for experienced workers (6–12 months), and CPD (e.g., EV/solar, 2–3 days, £400–£600). They offer nationwide access, including Midlands sites, with 100% placement support to secure jobs amid high demand (£33,000–£60,000 starting). Bootcamp-style programs align with net-zero needs, boosting employability 50% via MCS/OZEV certification, helping learners fill vacancies in renewables/EV.
