A WATER supplier is backing a scheme aimed at plugging a skills gap.

Northumbrian Water is supporting the Energy and Utilities Skills Partnership to build and launch the first-ever joint Workforce Renewal and Skills Strategy for the energy and utilities sector.

The industry requires 221,000 new recruits by 2027 to fulfil customer demands and deliver the infrastructure needed for UK economic growth.

Heidi Mottram, chief executive of Northumbrian Water, said: “Attracting people with the right skills to meet the future needs of the energy and utilities sector is a challenge we all face and the importance of taking collective action cannot be underestimated.

“This strategy is a welcome development and a timely one.

“This is an exciting time, our industry offers a variety of fantastic career opportunities and, as we face future anticipated skills gaps and shortages we need to take action now to highlight the many opportunities on offer.”

The business has been joined by electricity distributor Northern Powergrid.

Phil Jones, president and chief executive, added: “Attracting the number of skilled people we need in our sector is a significant challenge - and there is strength in numbers.

“Being part of the Energy and Utilities Skills Partnership and supporting the Workforce Renewal and Skills Strategy gives both the energy industry - and Northern Powergrid – a platform to collectively address the long-term workforce challenges we face.”