Green jobs of the future: how innovation is transforming our workforce

As the world races towards net zero, the green economy is rapidly transforming. Innovation in technology, energy, and sustainability is not only reshaping industries but also creating an entire landscape of new green jobs. From AI-driven energy solutions to breakthroughs in green energy, these innovations are paving the way for the next generation of careers. But what do these green jobs of tomorrow look like, and how are they evolving alongside our planet’s needs?

How innovation is driving the green jobs of the future

Let’s face it: innovation is the superstar of our green transition. New tech, smart systems, and groundbreaking energy solutions are shaking up how we power our homes, get around, and run our businesses. Jobs that barely existed a decade ago are popping up all over the place, and we’re seeing new demands for a workforce skilled in areas like digital technology, renewable energy, and STEM fields.

A 2023 report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) projects that the renewable energy sector could generate 40 million jobs worldwide by 2050, fuelled by advancements in wind, solar, hydrogen, and battery storage. The UK is at the forefront of this revolution, particularly in battery storage. In fact, E.ON and Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners are spearheading a major initiative with a massive battery project in Newport, South Wales. This cutting-edge system holds the energy equivalent of 35 million smartphones, marking a significant leap forward for the UK's energy storage capabilities whilst creating a number of new green roles in the area.

Greening our homes: how retrofitting is creating new job opportunities

The largest opportunity for green job creation in the UK lies in retrofitting homes. There are 28 million homes in the UK, and the vast majority are old and inefficient. Retrofitting these homes for energy efficiency is a massive job market, requiring skills from construction and engineering to digital technology.

Alongside government initiatives like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and Future Homes Standard, we’re pushing for more heat pumps, solar panels, and electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, with innovations in building materials and energy-efficient systems driving new job roles. Retrofitting is no longer just about installing insulation but also about integrating smart technology—such as smart thermostats, heat sensors, and energy-efficient appliances—all of which require skilled workers trained in both digital and manual trades.

Upskilling for a greener future

As the green economy grows, so does the need for workers to upskill or retrain. Innovation is zooming ahead, and so are the skills required. The UK government aims to create two million green jobs by 2030 to make our energy cleaner and more affordable. At E.ON, we’re stepping up to the plate, ensuring these jobs are spread across the Midlands to drive the energy transition forward.

Last year we opened our Kingswinford Net Zero Academy where we’re upskilling our colleagues in cleaner, greener energy solutions -  training technicians and engineers from across the country to install technologies such as smart meters, electric vehicle chargers and heat pumps.

By preparing our colleagues to lead the energy transition, we’re training the next generation of Britain’s green collar workforce in the skills needed to thrive in a more sustainable future and providing cleaner, greener and more affordable energy to homes. The energy transition is an opportunity to make energy more affordable and sustainable – a critical element of helping make the country become more prosperous which can’t be fully achieved without an ambition to deliver huge societal benefit too.