This briefing paper investigates the evidence for Net-Zero job skills and training requirements in the UK’s energy system. Through an extensive literature review and 10 expert interviews, it analyses how the skills landscape is adapting to support the growth of low-carbon energy sectors, including both supply and end-use. The paper identifies ongoing barriers and opportunities for expanding low-carbon job competencies, culminating in a set of policy recommendations to create clear, inclusive training pathways into low-carbon energy jobs.
Using three sectoral case studies, the paper investigates challenges and opportunities for improving skills and training supply and demand for low-carbon energy careers. The building energy retrofit sector faces a significant shortage of skilled workers, particularly in heat pump installation, energy efficiency measures, retrofit coordination, and digital roles. Despite the potential to create 120,000–230,000 new jobs by 2030, inconsistent policies and funding have hindered private investment in training. The offshore wind sector is forecast to employ over 100,000 workers in 2030, compared to 32,000 in 2022. Offshore wind struggles with skills gaps in electrical, digital, consenting, and marine roles, relying on experienced workers and those from other industries to fill these gaps. The electric vehicles sector could generate at least 80,000 new jobs over the next 10-15 years, contingent on gigafactory development, with key skills needed in charging point installation, vehicle recycling, battery manufacturing, and electrification engineering.
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