EMA launches framework to meet Singapore power sector's manpower needs

THE Energy Market Authority (EMA) on Thursday launched a National Energy Competency Framework (NECF) to strengthen manpower capabilities for Singapore's power sector.

NECF was developed in close collaboration with the industry, the Union of Power and Gas Employees, as well as the Workforce Development Agency.

The framework spells out the career progression pathways for 26 technical and non-technical electricity and gas job families in the power sector.

It also provides detailed pathways and associated competencies for 14 job families that were prioritised by the industry, based on its current needs and impact on the power sector's future. This includes job families in the areas of power generation as well as the transmission and distribution of electricity and gas.

EMA chief executive Ng Wai Choong said on Thursday: "The power sector plays a critical role in Singaporeans' everyday lives and in enabling the Singapore economy. The NECF will help the power sector's workforce upgrade their competencies and enhance their career prospects.

"Mid-career professionals and students interested to join the sector can also learn about the various career opportunities and the required skillsets to pursue their career aspirations in this growing sector."

The new framework will be a reference for the power sector to guide its human resource policies in talent attraction, retention and staff development.

Institutions of higher learning and training providers can also use this framework to align their curriculum for both pre-employment training and continuing education training for mid-career professionals and students interested in joining the power sector, EMA said.

NECF is now accessible at www.powerlives.sg. The new portal also provides information on career, internship and scholarship opportunities in the power sector, and includes postings on industry events.