Our sector is at a crossroads. As industries worldwide confront complex challenges, the energy sector faces unique pressures that demand innovative solutions. 

Putting social value at the forefront of project and programme strategies allows the sector to meet demand and drive ethical business practice. More than ever, the industry faces a call for transparency and pressure to address future energy security. In addressing these challenges, it’s possible to exceed client expectations, deliver profound societal benefits and improve ways of living for the communities that surround megaprojects. 

Local engagement and building the skills of the future

Over the last decade, the energy sector has experienced mass change and although substantial progress has been made in investment into clean energy, such as nuclear power generation, there is still a way to go to meet upcoming targets. Rapid development brings not only opportunities but also challenges that can hinder progress, especially in terms of social value. After all, with growth comes growing pains. 

The most impactful ways to maximise social value in delivering a project are by focusing on local engagement and workforce development. Consultants play a crucial role in bridging the skills gap, inspiring the next generation and ensuring a steady pipeline of talent. As it stands, there is a significant skills gap and diversity imbalance in the energy sector's construction workforce, posing a major challenge to achieving the ambitious 2050 net-zero targets. 

To address this, engagement with schools and colleges is vital. From visiting educational institutions, to employing early career individuals on projects from the outset, we can cultivate interest, which manifests into skills that will be invaluable at later stages. For instance, initiatives like Gleeds’ partnerships with educational institutions have shown how early exposure to real-world projects can ignite passion and provide practical skills, preparing students for future careers. It’s not just about filling positions but playing our part in creating a workforce that’s ready for the future. 

In addition, supporting clients in upskilling their existing employees through continuous professional development, mentoring and team integration ensures that the workforce remains competitive and adaptable. Tailored training programmes help clients enhance their teams' competencies, enabling them to meet the fast-moving demands of the sector.

Beyond compliance to exceed social value expectations

Creating social value goes beyond regulation compliance or simply fulfilling client requirements. It’s about taking proactive action that makes a real difference in people’s lives. As an industry, we should be thinking how project delivery teams can move beyond 'box-ticking' to truly benefit communities and provide more than just infrastructure. This could mean building community centres, partnering with local businesses or identifying critical areas where a project can provide long-term benefits.

Why does this matter? Focusing solely on meeting the minimum standards may fulfil a contract but going above and beyond creates genuine value, strengthening community relationships and carving a sustainable positive way forward for future projects.  

There are a lot of real-life examples of the substantial benefits of social value integration and the untold benefits this can have on a project. Gleeds supported Horatio’s Garden, a charity dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals affected by spinal injuries, and this project has exemplified impactful community engagement. By reusing and recycling materials from the Chelsea Flower Show, the Sheffield and East Horatio’s Garden project not only supported its cause but also reduced unnecessary project spend. This is just one example of how such strategies can augment project outcomes whilst driving meaningful contributions to society. 

Enhancing social value through collaboration and strategic engagement 

Ultimately, to improve the sector’s outlook, collective industry effort is needed. Committing to supporting SMEs and local communities, while actively engaging with local chambers of commerce, ensures that the benefits of procurement are widely distributed. Simply put; by focusing on providing opportunities for local suppliers and SMEs, we can stimulate regional economies and create jobs. This commitment not only supports the immediate community but also strengthens a more resilient supply chain capable of withstanding the challenges of the future.

Effective local engagement is vital to supporting regional growth and creating the workforce of the future. The Gleeds energy team, based in Birchwood Park, Warrington, exemplifies this commitment by integrating social value into their work, strengthening community ties across the North of England. This includes collaborating with local schools, prioritising regional hiring and engaging in community-focused initiatives. For instance, in June, the Gleeds energy team hosted students from Birchwood High School over two days, providing an overview of various business disciplines. Aiding future recruitment strategies, they shared information on career pathways, assigned an energy-related project task, supported research, analysed presentations and offered feedback.

As a result, this engagement supports future recruitment strategies and serves as a model for successful social value. With nuclear megaproject activity across the UK, notable projects including Hinkley Point C in Somerset and Sizewell C in Suffolk, there is a valuable opportunity to apply the successful strategies developed in Warrington. This approach aims to enhance local areas, whilst implementing tailored social value techniques with our clients, reinforcing Gleeds' commitment to shaping the future.

A strategic path to a sustainable future

Overall, as we navigate the complexities and demands of today’s energy sector, going above and beyond when it comes to project and programme delivery is more than a moral imperative—it’s a strategic advantage. By pinpointing community engagement, building future skillsets, exceeding compliance expectations and prioritising collaboration, we can drive sustainable growth and community prosperity, leading the race to net zero. As we embark on delivering the energy megaprojects of the future, the sector must embrace social value as a core principle to secure a prosperous energy future for all.