The American way of life is built on a foundation of reliable electricity. From powering our homes to fueling our industries, a steady flow of energy is essential. But the way we generate that power is undergoing a significant shift. While our need for power from the grid is growing, coal-fired power plants—once a dominant force in the energy sector—are steadily being retired in favor of cleaner and more sustainable alternatives.
In 2011, coal plants reached their peak generation capacity in the U.S. at a staggering 318 gigawatts. However, current projections paint a vastly different picture for the future. By the end of 2026, we can expect nearly half of that coal-generated power to disappear, replaced by a more diverse mix of technologies like wind, solar, natural gas turbines, and battery storage. This trend of replacing coal generation with other technology is only expected to accelerate beyond 2026, with even more coal plants slated for closure by 2030.
While these coal plant closures are driven by environmental concerns and a push for cleaner energy, the transition presents a unique challenge. These coal plants, even those scheduled for retirement, continue to supply a critical amount of power to the national grid. Until their full decommissioning, maintaining their safe and efficient operation remains essential but increasingly complex.
The “Great Transition” to Cleaner Energy Production
Continued safe operation is paramount because we need the power, and the demand grows with every passing year. However, the old age of these plants increases the operational difficulty, with many plants having been online for nearly 50 years. Because of this, the forced outage rate for these old facilities has increased over the last few years. The WEFOR (weighted equivalent forced outage rate, which measures the probability that a unit or group of units will not meet their generating requirements because of forced outages) for coal is outpacing the rate for other newer technologies. The bottom line is that these plants are becoming more difficult to keep in safe operation.
This is where the concept of a “great transition” comes into play. It’s a period of significant change within the power generation industry, one that requires a skilled workforce capable of navigating the evolving landscape. With a growing need for more power from the grid, increased maintenance needs, and a workforce that is aging to retirement, we are truly stretching our labor force. Here’s where staffing agencies can play a crucial role and address workforce needs.
The Need for Expertise During a Changing of the Guard
Coal power plants are complex facilities with intricate operational needs. Maintaining and operating them safely requires a specialized skillset. As these plants age and transition towards closure, their existing workforces may face reductions. This opens the door for a temporary staffing solution.
Staffing agencies offer a pool of qualified professionals who can bridge the gap during the critical time of coal plant closures. These individuals possess the necessary experience and expertise to:
- Maintain Plant Operations: Ensure the smooth and reliable operation of the plant’s equipment until its scheduled closure.
- Facilitate Decommissioning: Assist with the safe and responsible dismantling of the plant once it’s retired from service.
- Transfer Knowledge: Provide valuable mentorship and knowledge transfer to existing staff, preparing them for potential career transitions within the evolving energy sector.
Timeliness is Key: Ensuring a Smooth Transition
The success of the power grid’s transition hinges on a well-coordinated and timely approach. Staffing agencies can provide a significant advantage in this regard by offering a readily available pool of qualified personnel to support coal plant closures. This allows for the rapid deployment of skilled workers to fill any staffing gaps that may arise during the closure process.
Furthermore, staffing agencies can streamline the recruitment and onboarding process, saving valuable time and resources. This ensures that the right people are in place at the right time, minimizing any disruption to plant operations.
Solutions for Supporting the Grid: A Multi-Faceted Approach
The transition away from coal power plants is a complex undertaking that requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some additional solutions that can support a smooth grid transition:
- Investment in Renewable Energy Infrastructure: In the wake of coal plant closures, building and expanding renewable energy sources, like wind and solar, can compensate for the lost capacity.
- Modernization of the Power Grid: Upgrading the existing power grid infrastructure will be necessary to efficiently integrate new energy sources and ensure reliable power delivery.
- Workforce Development Programs: To ensure a successful transition, invest in programs that equip workers with the skills necessary to thrive in the evolving energy sector.
Staffing Agencies: A Valuable Piece of the Puzzle
Staffing agencies offer a valuable solution in the face of a changing energy landscape. By providing access to a pool of skilled and experienced personnel, they can help promote the safe and efficient operation of coal plants during their closure phase.
This, in turn, contributes to a smoother transition towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. While there are many solutions needed to support the grid, staffing agencies can play a vital role in ensuring the valuable expertise and experience is readily available to navigate this critical period.
APS Solutions: At the Forefront of Skilled Workforce Solutions
At APS Solutions (APS), we understand the challenges and opportunities presented by the power grid’s transformation. We are a leading provider of skilled experts who can operate and maintain coal power plants, as well as other facilities across the energy sector.
We have developed an expansive network of qualified, adaptable personnel, providing access to employees able to leverage their experience from diverse backgrounds to quickly integrate into new environments. This allows them to seamlessly augment existing staff and contribute effectively to plant operations.
Consider APS Solutions Your “Staffing Insurance Policy”
We have the expertise to support you in operating and maintaining your units throughout your entire operation’s lifecycle, ensuring you have the right personnel in place for operation and maintenance at every stage.
If you’re looking for a staffing partner to help navigate the changing energy landscape, APS is here to support you. We are committed to providing the skilled workforce solutions necessary for a successful transition towards a more sustainable future.
Positions we Staff
Plant Management
Plant Manager
Plant Engineer
Assistant Plant Manager
Maintenance Manager
Operations Manager
Planner
Scheduler
Cost Analyst
Office Administration
Warehouse Management
Safety Management & Oversight
Operations Support
Shift Supervisor
Control Room Operator
Outside/Auxiliary Operator
Boiler Operator
Controls Engineer
DCS Engineer
IC&E Technician
Electrical Technician
Mechanical Technician
Plant Chemist
Laboratory Technician
Craft Labor
Electrician
Welder
Millwright
Precision Millwright
Coal Yard Support
Heavy Equipment Operator
Warehouse Worker
Gate Guards
