Talent shortages in the renewable energy sector is pushing pay up as companies seek to stop defections to competitors, according to a study by global management consultancy Hay Group.

The study reveals that  two-thirds of firms express concerns over skills shortage in the sector, while salaries remain at a premium in the renewables sector, despite the current economic climate.

The study also shows that 69% of respondents said they found recruitment difficult in the current market, while 73% of employers were concerned about retaining key talent this year.

A skills shortfall was felt keenly by 64% of respondents (64%) with half citing strong competition for talent within the market  as the main factor.