Companies agree to stronger workers’ rights in clean energy

5 Jun 2026 04:21 PM

Offshore wind supply chain companies and trade unions back the government’s Offshore Wind Fair Work Charter.

Workers in coastal towns and industrial heartlands are set to see stronger protections, as offshore wind supply chain companies and trade unions back the government’s Offshore Wind Fair Work Charter.

The deal will mean unions get better access to workplaces and opportunities to speak directly to staff, alongside strong workplace standards on health and safety. 

It could also pave the way for trade union recognition across the booming offshore wind sector, with future agreements between offshore wind companies and trade unions expected to include commitments on fair terms and conditions, apprenticeships, and more inclusive workplaces. 

Today (Friday 5 June) an initial 37 supply chain companies have agreed to sign up to the charter, alongside 5 trade unions - including GMB, Prospect and Unison.

This builds on government action taken this week to create 300,000 new work experience and training placements in sectors including construction, health, social care and hospitality. The new placements are part of a £2.5 billion youth employment package, which will see young people gain hands-on experience, build skills and move into work.  

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: 

The government has always been clear that the workers who power the nation deserve power in their workplace too. 

That is why we welcome this commitment from major offshore wind manufacturers and trade unions, who represent thousands of workers up and down the country, in bringing stronger working conditions and a greater, independent worker voice into the offshore wind industry. 

As we continue to go further and faster in delivering the clean power mission in the wake of the war in Iran, we are clear that building a more secure and stable energy system must – and will – go hand in hand with stronger workers’ rights.

Trade unions signed up: 

List of companies who have signed up: 

Donato Martínez, CEO of Navantia UK, said: 

Navantia UK is proud to be among the first companies to sign the Offshore Wind Fair Work Charter. Signing the Charter reflects our deep commitment to fair treatment, high standards and genuine partnership with our workforce and trade unions. The offshore wind sector offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create well-paid, skilled jobs in communities that have long powered this country and Navantia UK is committed to playing our part in making that a reality for workers and communities across the UK. We look forward to working with government, industry and unions to make this sector one that workers are proud to be part of.

Paul Nowak, General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), said: 

Offshore wind workers are on the frontlines of building energy independence, making the UK less dependent global turmoil. But for too long they haven’t been treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. This Charter is an important step towards good, secure, unionised jobs in the sector, and the TUC is happy to have worked with government, unions and industry to get it over the line. Now, we need to proper implementation and enforcement to protect all workers in this critical area.

Steve Adams, Managing Director of Hutchinson Engineering, said:  

Hutchinson has a longstanding commitment to fair work principles. The Offshore Wind Fair Work Charter strongly aligns with our company’s ambitions and future growth, reinforcing our commitment to creating high-quality jobs, supporting workforce development, and ensuring that the benefits of success are shared with our employees.

Eddie Dempsey, General Secretary of the RMT, said: 

It is positive to see a number of companies signing up to the Fair Work Charter and committing to stronger engagement with trade unions across the renewable energy sector, including the maritime supply chain. RMT will continue to campaign to ensure these commitments translate into real improvements for local workers throughout the supply chain that deliver for local communities.