Q2 Overview

Q2 2026 continued to demonstrate the rapid pace of the global energy transition. According to IRENA, renewable energy accounted for almost 50% of global installed power capacity by the end of 2025, with nearly 700GW of new renewable capacity added in a single year. Solar remained the dominant technology, while wind continued to play a critical role in supporting clean power growth.

In the UK, offshore wind remained firmly in the spotlight following the record-breaking AR7 auction, which secured 8.4GW of offshore wind capacity, enough to power millions of homes and strengthen the UK's pathway towards Clean Power 2030.

At the same time, investment into clean energy continued to accelerate, with more than £100bn committed to the UK's green economy, supporting offshore wind, solar and grid infrastructure projects across the country.

 

Offshore Wind Key Trends

The offshore wind market continues to show strong long-term potential, but there is no doubt that developers and supply chains are still navigating a challenging environment.

The biggest positive story this quarter has been the continued momentum behind the UK's offshore wind ambitions, with the record-breaking AR7 auction providing much-needed confidence for developers, investors and the wider supply chain. A healthy project pipeline is critical, not just for energy security, but for maintaining investment and creating long-term jobs across the sector.

At the same time, we're continuing to see growing demand for experienced professionals across development, engineering, construction, installation and operations. The skills gap remains one of the industry's biggest challenges, particularly as multiple markets compete for the same talent.

One trend that stands out is the increasingly global nature of offshore wind recruitment. Candidates are more willing than ever to relocate or work internationally, while clients are looking beyond their local markets to secure the expertise needed to deliver projects on time.

From speaking with clients and candidates every day, the message is clear: businesses that move quickly, offer flexibility and invest in long-term talent strategies will be best positioned to succeed as the market continues to grow.

 

Global Offshore Wind Takeaways

Global Offshore Wind is always one of the highlights of the calendar for me, and this year's event in Manchester didn't disappoint.

What stood out most was the level of optimism across the industry. Despite the challenges we all know exist around supply chains, project costs and skills shortages, the conversations I had with developers, OEMs, contractors and investors were overwhelmingly positive. There is a real sense that offshore wind is entering its next phase of growth.

The topic that came up time and time again was talent. As projects move from planning into delivery, businesses are increasingly focused on securing the specialist skills needed to keep projects on track. Competition for experienced professionals remains high, particularly across engineering, construction, commissioning and grid infrastructure.

One of my highlights from the event was representing LSP Renewables as sponsor of a special reNEWS Podcast episode. It was a great opportunity to discuss some of the challenges and opportunities facing the offshore wind sector, and to share what we're seeing firsthand from both clients and candidates across global markets.

My biggest tAkeaway? The demand is there. The investment is there. The pipeline is there. The businesses that will thrive over the coming years are those that invest in people as early as they invest in projects.

If you're planning an offshore wind project, scaling your team, or simply want to discuss the current talent market, I'd be happy to help. Feel free to get in touch to discuss how LSP Renewables can support your hiring needs.

📩 seth.hunt@lsprenewables.com