The United Kingdom’s ambitious drive to decarbonise its energy system by the end of this decade is set to deliver the largest employment boost to the East of England and Scotland, according to a government report released on Sunday (19 October).
The plan projects that more than 400,000 new jobs will be created nationwide to support the transition to low-carbon energy, with these two regions standing to benefit the most. Demand will surge for skilled trades such as plumbers, electricians, and welders — key roles in building and operating renewable infrastructure, improving energy efficiency, managing smart grids, and decarbonising legacy industries.
One of the largest contributors to the East of England’s employment gains will be the construction of Sizewell C, the nuclear power plant on the Suffolk coast, which is expected to generate around 10,000 jobs at peak construction. Meanwhile, carbon capture and storage initiatives across Scotland and the North East of England are anticipated to support approximately 35,000 roles, according to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.
London, too, will see significant growth, with projections suggesting that by 2030, some 25,000 people will be directly employed in the clean energy sector — more than double the 2023 figure.
Recognising the scale of the skills challenge, the government said it is prioritising funding for training and reskilling programmes to meet industry demand. The report estimates that the number of plumbers and carpenters must double by 2030, while the need for qualified welders — among the most sought-after trades — is expected to triple over the same period.
