Demystifying electrification in engineering and manufacturing: The journey to net-zero

Engineering and manufacturing is a rapidly transforming sector, making it hard for employers to know what skills they need to keep up with change.​​ One of the most important transitions is electrification, the process of converting systems to run on electricity. It is essential in achieving the UK's goal of decarbonisation to meet its net-zero target. 

The Enginuity Future Skills Hub plays a vital role in helping businesses navigate this transformation by providing insights into the trends and skills needed to embrace electrification.  

Why electrification matters 

Electrification is a crucial step in decarbonising industries, helping the UK meet its legally binding net-zero target. For businesses, there are two key parts to electrification. The first part is to electrify your entire value chain as much as possible. This may include electrifying your processes and the production of materials used therein, ‘batterifying’ the tools you use, electrifying your means of transport, replacing hydraulic or pneumatic systems, and switching the modes of heating and cooling of your buildings and infrastructures.  

The second is to shift toward zero-carbon generation of the electricity needed to power all your new electric devices. This may involve integrating your renewable energy sources like solar and wind, along with adopting energy efficiency measures aimed at supporting tomorrow’s electricity grid to deliver against future demands. 

Companies that embrace electrification will not only contribute to a greener environment, but will also benefit from cost savings, improved efficiencies, and increased market relevance as consumers demand greener products. 

Understanding the benefits of electrification 

Electrification offers numerous benefits, which extend far beyond reducing carbon footprint. These advantages include: 

• Energy efficiency: Electric systems consume less energy than fossil fuel alternatives, lowering both energy usage and operating costs
• Precision and control: Electrified tools allow for finer control over processes, boosting product quality and minimising waste
• Manufacturing efficiency: Electric-powered automation and robotics enhance production speed, accuracy, and flexibility
• Reduced maintenance: Electric machinery has fewer moving parts, reducing maintenance needs
• Improved safety: Electric equipment is quieter and emits fewer pollutants, creating a safer workplace
• Regulatory compliance and incentives: Companies can better meet environmental regulations and access green transition incentives
• Innovation and growth: Advances in battery tech, energy storage, and smart manufacturing provide a market edge. 

The skills needed for electrification 

To fully embrace electrification, businesses need to invest in the development of relevant skills. The Electrification Skills Network (ESN), which Enginuity is a member of, aims to bridge the gap between employers, training organisations, and accrediting bodies by developing a comprehensive electrification skills framework​. This collaborative approach ensures training programs are targeted, effective, and aligned with the current and future needs of employers. 

One of the key challenges in electrification skills is finding existing solutions and recognising their value. ESN addresses this by consolidating various initiatives within a unified framework, making it easier to identify and access relevant solutions. 

As a small or medium-sized engineering or manufacturing enterprise, the electrification of the industry may provide opportunities for your business across a range of areas, including electrical contracting, e-mobility, electrical grid expansion, heat pumps, solar, wind, and digitisation. Therefore, upskilling in these areas would be beneficial in adapting to electrification technology.  

Electrification represents an exciting advancement for engineering and manufacturing, offering businesses a pathway to innovation and sustainability. With the right skills, strategies, and investments, companies can position themselves at the forefront of this essential transformation and get closer to achieving their Net Zero goals. 

Engage with ESN to support the development of electrification skills and contribute to the future of the industry:

Electrification Skills Network Explore our Future Skills Hub