In an era where adaptability and innovation are paramount, the energy sector faces a unique set of challenges. From fluctuating market conditions to evolving environmental regulations, companies in this industry must continually refine their business operations to thrive. 

One such area ripe for transformation is workplace planning and strategy. As the industry grapples with the imperative to reduce costs, enhance productivity, and prioritize sustainability, positioning the workplace to adapt becomes not just an option, but a strategic necessity. 

What are some of the most crucial workplace planning issues energy companies are contending with right now?

1. Drawing employees into the office while maintaining flexible policies

Like other industries, the energy sector experienced the shift to remote work during the pandemic and the ensuing return to office. Work models and cultures vary across companies. But for those adopting hybrid models or requiring five days a week in the office, creating work environments that attract employees is an ongoing challenge. Whether it’s space planning or policy solutions that are needed to keep employees engaged, energy companies continue to weigh many factors as they find the right balance for their cultures, people, and operations.

2. Adjusting space to help contribute toward Net Zero goals

Energy companies working on improving their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) profiles have multiple operational areas to consider. The most obvious is mitigating the environmental impact of extracting, refining, and burning fossil fuels and paving the way for transition to renewables. One other initiative is to examine workplace and real estate strategy. 

From encouraging remote work to lessen the carbon impact of commutes, to retrofitting space for greater energy efficiency, the workplace provides a multitude of options for energy companies pursing Net Zero goals. Further options for meeting Net Zero include decommissioning existing offices and furniture. The size and business objectives of each energy company will greatly impact what measures are prioritized.

3. Competing for new types of talent (e.g. data scientists)

As business operations become more sophisticated with new techniques and technologies, and the industry moves toward renewable energy, energy companies are increasingly seeking new kinds of talent. From data scientists and AI specialists to carbon capture and storage (CCS) experts, a wide variety of expertise is in demand. The energy workplace must adapt to the needs of these new and evolving skill sets with the appropriate space, tools, and technologies, along with an overall work environment that is competitive in attracting and retaining such professionals. 

4. Training and upskilling to address the energy transition

Just as energy companies must attract new talent, they must also train and upskill existing employees to meet the demands of the transition to renewables. Accordingly, work environments that offer the appropriate training space and technologies will ease the transition for companies that invest in them. To complement these work environments, adopting policies of mentorship and support for individualized career paths will help entry- and mid-level talent thrive.

5. Implementing innovation spaces to research renewable energy

Like any tech company or incubator, energy companies must cultivate space that supports innovation and collaboration. For top-tier talent to work together seamlessly, accelerate product development, and solve problems creatively, offices must include spaces where teams can share knowledge and exchange ideas in an accessible way. By carefully considering workflow and business objectives, energy companies can strategically plan spaces that support the multi-faceted processes of ideation and innovation. 

6. Committing to continuous experimentation and evolving work practices

The energy sector will continue to evolve in the face of a worldwide transition to renewable energy. Committing to explore new policies and work practices will give an edge to any energy company that desires to remain competitive and industry-leading. 

Currently, many energy companies are looking for ways to enhance the employee experience while on site. As many of these organizations are siloed, improving communication across business teams will be necessary to reach consensus on what that looks like. Approaching workplace changes in a deliberate and thoughtful way, ideally using proven change management practices to gather valuable feedback and data, will help all energy businesses adopt measures that support a positive culture and enable growth. 

Nurturing Innovation while Helping Employees Thrive

The energy sector faces significant shifts in the decades ahead. To best support an evolving workforce and sustainability goals, embracing smart and adaptable workplace strategies is the way forward. By utilizing thoughtful planning and committing to continuous improvement, the industry can stay nimble and ensure a rewarding experience for all employees.