Scottish Power has marked the beginning of National Apprentice Week by announcing a 21% boost to its starting salaries as the company aims to ramp up recruitment.
Its SP Energy Networks business is said to be the first electricity grid company to pay the Real Living Wage for craft apprentices, with starting salaries increasing from £20,000 to £24,310 from 2025 for all first-year recruits, with salaries rising each year.
The company says the move is part of a larger campaign to recruit around 130 more apprentices in 2025 across the UK, as the energy company looks to expand its workforce from 6,500 to 11,000 by 2030.
Furthermore, it comes after Scottish Power’s announcement that intends to double its UK investment to £24bn as it upgrades and transforms Britain’s energy infrastructure.
Sarah McNulty, Scottish Power’s people and organisation director, said: “We’re ramping up recruitment and we want to attract and retain the best talent. This reflects our commitment to fair pay and development of our apprentices and strengthens our workforce as we embark on an ambitious journey to transform the UK’s energy infrastructure.
“Alongside industry leading pay, we also offer great conditions and with a huge investment programme and pipeline of projects, the energy industry is a great place to build a long-term career.”
Scottish Power’s trade unions have expressed their support in recognition of the company’s commitment to fair wages and employee welfare.
A spokesperson for the joint trade union group said: “We welcome the approach Scottish Power has taken to recognise the significant value of new apprentices and what they bring towards the goal of net zero and a better future.
“The volume intake from Scottish Power offers future employment for many, ensuring they receive excellent training, hands-on experience and are rewarded in line with the Real Living Wage in addition to fair and sustainable employment practices for progression through their apprenticeship and employment.”
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