The UK is at a critical point in its journey to Net Zero by 2050, with the government committed to cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 68% by 2030. Achieving these ambitious targets depends heavily on the widespread adoption of low-carbon technologies.
These technologies are transforming the energy and construction sectors and also creating thousands of new jobs across the country. For the workforce to keep pace, further education (FE) colleges, training providers, and employers must focus on building the right green skills to meet demand.
This article explores the top five low-carbon technologies driving job growth in the UK, why they matter, and how Quantum Training is supporting the skills development needed to drive this green transition.
Why Low-Carbon Technologies Matter for the UK
The UK’s homes and buildings account for 25% of total greenhouse gas emissions, largely due to heating, hot water, and poor energy efficiency. Transitioning to low-carbon technologies is essential for three main reasons:
| Key Area | Impact of Low-Carbon Technologies |
|---|---|
| Climate | Reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers carbon emissions. |
| Economy | Creates high-value jobs in renewable energy and retrofitting. |
| Energy Security | Reduces dependence on imported energy by boosting UK production. |
By 2030, the green economy could create over 480,000 jobs, many of them linked to the technologies listed below.
1. Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are a cornerstone of the UK’s clean heat strategy, replacing gas boilers with systems that use electricity to heat homes efficiently.
The government has set a target of 600,000 heat pump installations annually by 2028, creating significant demand for skilled workers.
Types of Heat Pumps
| Type | Use Case | Carbon Reduction Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP) | Residential and small commercial buildings. | Cuts emissions by up to 50% compared to gas boilers. |
Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP) | Larger buildings or areas with land availability. | Even higher efficiency and carbon savings. |
Jobs Created
- Heat pump installers and engineers.
- Retrofit coordinators to ensure PAS 2035 compliance.
- Manufacturers and maintenance roles.
Skills Needed:
FE colleges must provide hands-on training with ASHP and GSHP systems to meet industry needs. Quantum Training installs dedicated Air Source Heat Pump and Ground Source Heat Pump Training Bays, enabling students to gain real-world experience.
2. Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Systems
Solar PV is one of the most visible symbols of the UK’s green energy revolution.
In 2024, the UK surpassed 16 gigawatts of installed solar capacity, with projections showing continued growth.
Why Solar PV Matters
- Reduces household energy costs by generating renewable electricity.
- Supports decentralised, resilient energy grids.
- Works seamlessly with other low-carbon systems like battery storage.
| Solar PV Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Reduces reliance on fossil fuels | Cuts carbon emissions at source. |
| Creates skilled technical jobs | Installers, designers, and maintenance engineers. |
| Integrates with battery storage | Stores energy for use during peak times. |
Jobs Created
The solar workforce could double by 2030, with thousands of roles needed in installation, design, and system integration.
Quantum’s Role:
Quantum Training provides Electrical Ecosystem Bays, combining solar PV, EV charging, and battery storage systems, so learners can practice designing and installing interconnected energy systems.
3. Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Infrastructure
The UK government will phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, driving rapid growth in the EV sector. This shift requires a nationwide charging network, creating jobs in installation, maintenance, and grid management.
EV Charging in Numbers
| Metric | Figure (2024) |
|---|---|
| Total public charge devices (As of July 1, 2025) | 80,000+ |
| Fast chargers expected by 2030 | 300,000+ |
| Projected EV jobs by 2030 | 30,000+ |
Key Skills Needed:
- Electrical engineering for safe installation of charging units.
- Grid management and smart technology integration.
- Knowledge of safety standards and compliance.
Quantum’s Role:
Quantum’s Electrical Ecosystem Bays include EV charging stations, allowing learners to simulate real-world installation and troubleshooting.
4. Battery Storage Systems
As renewable energy sources like solar and wind become more common, energy storage is essential for balancing supply and demand. Battery storage systems store excess renewable energy for use during peak demand periods.
Why It’s Critical
- Stabilises the grid during renewable fluctuations.
- Reduces energy waste and enhances system efficiency.
- Supports decentralised energy systems in homes and communities.
| Use Case | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Residential battery systems | Cuts household energy bills and supports self-sufficiency. |
| Commercial/industrial storage | Enables businesses to reduce peak-time energy costs. |
| Grid-scale storage | Provides national energy security and resilience. |
Jobs Created:
Battery manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and recycling will all require specialist green skills.
Quantum’s Role:
Quantum Electrical Ecosystem Bays include battery storage systems, ensuring learners can work safely and effectively with these complex systems.
5. Retrofitting and Energy Efficiency Technologies
Retrofitting existing buildings is one of the biggest challenges and opportunities in the UK’s Net Zero journey. With 80% of the buildings that will exist in 2050 already built, improving insulation, airtightness, and ventilation is critical.
What Retrofit Involves
- Installing insulation, ventilation and airtightness systems.
- Replacing outdated boilers with low-carbon heating.
| Retrofit Role | Training Needed |
|---|---|
| Retrofit Assessor | Building performance evaluation. |
| Retrofit Coordinator | Oversees PAS 2035 projects. |
| Installer (Insulation, Heat Pumps) | NVQ-level trade certifications. |
Job Potential
To achieve its target of retrofitting 29 million homes by 2050, the UK needs 100,000 more trained workers. Quantum’s Role:
Quantum installs custom-built retrofit bays, enabling colleges to teach hands-on skills in airtightness, insulation and ventilation, all aligned with PAS 2035 standards.
Comparing the Top 5 Low-Carbon Technologies
| Technology | Primary Focus | Projected Jobs by 2030 | Training Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Pumps | Clean home heating | 50,000+ | ASHP/GSHP courses. |
| Solar PV | Renewable electricity generation | 60,000+ | Solar installation and design. |
| EV Charging | Transport electrification | 50,000+ | Electrical and safety compliance. |
| Battery Storage | Energy storage and grid stability | 40,000+ | Storage installation and grid integration. |
| Retrofit | Upgrading existing building stock | 100,000+ | Retrofit-specific roles and PAS 2035. |
The Role of FE Colleges in Delivering Green Skills
FE colleges are central to preparing the workforce for these emerging industries.
However, many colleges face barriers like outdated facilities and lack of funding.
How Quantum Supports Colleges:
- Custom-built Training Bays:
From Air Source Heat Pump, Ground Source Heat Pump to Electrical Ecosystem Bays, designed to reflect real-world conditions. - Curriculum Support:
Working with awarding bodies like the NOCN Group to align courses with industry needs. - Employer Partnerships:
Connecting learners with local businesses for placements and apprenticeships.
Train-the-Trainer Programme:
Upskilling teaching staff to deliver the latest low-carbon courses, and work with training facilities and renewable technologies.
Government Support for Low-Carbon Skills
The UK government introduced several funding streams to help colleges and employers prepare for Net Zero:
| Scheme | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF) | Expands FE college capacity for green skills training. |
| Heat Training Grant | Funds low-carbon heating and heat pump courses. |
| UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) | Funds to help kickstart economic growth |
| Warm Homes Skills Programme | Training opportunities for installers and retrofit professionals |
| T-Level Funding | Level 3 technical qualifications for students |
| Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund | Supports retrofit training for large housing projects. |
These schemes ensure that funding is available to modernise training facilities and develop a pipeline of skilled workers.
Quantum Training’s Mission
At Quantum Training, our mission is to equip the next generation of green professionals with the skills and confidence needed to lead the UK’s transition to a Net Zero economy. The shift towards low-carbon technologies and sustainable construction is about creating real opportunities for learners, employers, and communities across the UK.
We work closely with Further Education (FE) colleges, local authorities, and employers to design state-of-the-art training environments that reflect the real-world conditions learners will face in the field. These include specialist facilities for Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHP), Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHP), Solar Thermal, Electrical Ecosystem Bays ( EV charging, battery storage, and solar PV) and Retrofit Training Bays designed to teach retrofit practices aligned with PAS 2035 standards.
To date, Quantum has worked with over 55 colleges across the UK. Some of our key projects include work at:
- Reading College
- Cornwall College
- Northampton College
- Barking and Dagenham College
- Darlington College
Our approach goes beyond installation. We provide curriculum development, train-the-trainer programmes, and ongoing support to ensure teaching staff are ready to deliver courses that meet current industry and policy requirements.
Quantum Training and NOCN Group have also launched Bootcamps & SWAPs to support individuals in launching meaningful careers across construction, green energy, and education and importantly bringing industry into the classroom. These bundles are ideal for learners seeking to take their first steps into retrofit, sustainability, or educational support roles.
By combining hands-on facilities with industry-aligned teaching, we ensure learners leave not only with theoretical knowledge, but also practical, job-ready experience. Whether it’s installing a heat pump, upgrading a home through retrofit, or managing EV charging infrastructure, Quantum-trained students are prepared to lead the UK’s green workforce of the future.
Conclusion
Low-carbon technologies are reshaping the UK’s economy, workforce, and built environment. Heat pumps, solar PV systems, EV charging networks, battery storage solutions, and whole-house retrofit practices are becoming essential parts of everyday life. These technologies are driving a green revolution, creating thousands of new job opportunities for workers at every level, from entry-level installers and technicians to highly skilled engineers, project managers, and sustainability specialists.
As the UK works toward its legally binding Net Zero 2050 target, the need for a trained workforce to deliver these technologies has never been greater. Meeting this challenge will require collaboration between further education (FE) colleges, employers, policymakers, and industry leaders. Together, they must scale up green skills training that matches the speed and ambition of the UK’s climate goals.
At Quantum Training, we are proud to play a central role in this mission. Through our state-of-the-art training facilities, industry partnerships, and curriculum support, we are equipping learners with the hands-on experience and knowledge needed to thrive in the low-carbon economy. Learn more about Quantum Training’s solutions here: www.thequantumgroup.uk.com
FAQ: Low-Carbon Technologies and Job Growth in the UK
1. What are low-carbon technologies?
Low-carbon technologies are solutions designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help tackle climate change. In the UK, the most common examples include heat pumps, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, battery storage systems, and retrofit practices for existing buildings. These technologies are central to the UK’s plan to reach Net Zero by 2050.
2. Why are low-carbon technologies important for the UK’s Net Zero goals?
The UK’s built environment accounts for around 25% of total carbon emissions. To meet Net Zero targets, millions of homes and buildings need to be retrofitted with sustainable solutions like heat pumps and solar energy systems. Expanding low-carbon infrastructure also supports the transition to electric vehicles and renewable energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and helping to cut emissions at scale.
3. Which low-carbon jobs are in highest demand right now?
The most in-demand green roles include:
- Heat pump installers and engineers
- Solar panel installers and maintenance technicians
- EV charging point engineers
- Retrofit coordinators and assessors
- Energy storage and battery technicians
4. How can someone train for a career in low-carbon technologies?
Training for these roles often happens through further education (FE) colleges, short bootcamps, or apprenticeships. Quantum Training works with colleges across the UK to install hands-on training bays for heat pumps, retrofit, EV charging, and solar energy. These facilities ensure learners graduate with practical skills that employers need.
5. Where can businesses or homeowners find support for adopting low-carbon technologies?
The UK Government offers support through schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF), and regional grants for low-carbon projects. Homeowners and businesses can find guidance on GOV.UK and through local authorities.
6. How do low-carbon technologies create new career opportunities?
As demand for renewable energy and sustainable housing grows, entire new job sectors are emerging. Roles now exist in design, installation, maintenance, project management, and even policy development. This shift is creating long-term career pathways and helping to revitalise industries like construction and engineering with sustainable, future-focused work.
