UK Green Jobs Market Expansion Hits Record Highs
Recent figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) confirm the United Kingdom’s rapid shift towards a low-carbon economy, with employment in green jobs surging to unprecedented levels. As of 2023, green industries across the country counted 690,900 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions—a remarkable 34.6% increase from 2015, when the number stood just over half a million. Waste management, energy-efficient products, and renewable energy sectors together now account for 54.3% of the green job market, spotlighting the crucial role sustainable industries play in job creation.
This evolution isn’t just a headline statistic—it represents real change in the UK workforce. Notably, roles connected to renewable energy have surged by 153.9% since 2015, and the low-carbon transport sector experienced growth of 181% over the same period.
If you want to play your part in the net-zero transition, now is a better time than ever—get in touch with Atlantic Renewables to find your path forward in the thriving green jobs sector!
Explore Renewable Energy Careers in the UK
The renewable energy field remains a major engine of the UK’s green jobs boom. Highlighted most recently in the wind sector, over 55,000 people are now employed between onshore and offshore wind industry jobs. This number is projected to soar to more than 112,000 by the end of the decade due to increasing investment and government targets aiming for 52GW of offshore wind by 2030.
Solar PV is on a similar trajectory. Latest government estimates indicate that by 2030, the solar PV sector could support up to 35,000 jobs across Great Britain. As installation of solar panels and battery storage systems rises, demand for skilled professionals—engineers, technicians, and project managers—continues to grow. Atlantic Renewables is proud to be part of this journey, providing expert solar panel and battery storage solutions around the UK, and inviting new talent to join the revolution.
Green Jobs in the UK Where the Demand Meets the Skills
ONS data reflects that nearly half the current UK workforce—approximately 46%—is now employed by companies in sectors with the lowest greenhouse gas emissions. Demand for green roles is high: a 2025 survey found over 3.2 million Brits want to work in a green role, and the volume of job adverts with “green” keywords exceeded 757,000 in late 2024.
Industries with the biggest jumps include waste management (56.7% workforce growth since 2015) and renewable energy, with engineers, installers, planners, and support staff finding high wages and excellent prospects. For those looking to upskill, training in renewable energy and energy efficiency can unlock a broad range of career pathways—a transition Atlantic Renewables supports through our employment of solar panel installers and energy efficiency experts.
What Drives the Rising Demand for Green Skills?
Behind the job growth lies broader trends: government net zero policy, increased investment in renewables, and the global shift toward sustainability. Recycling and resource management—at the heart of the circular economy—are pivotal, too. These sectors underline the need for skilled professionals in project management, engineering, and operations to meet climate targets.
The average salary for green roles is also higher; green job listings averaged £45,980 in 2024, about £8,000 above the UK’s typical median salary, making the sector both environmentally and financially appealing. This wage premium continues to draw motivated applicants—are you ready to join the green workforce? Atlantic Renewables is always keen to invest in people passionate about a cleaner, brighter tomorrow.
Which Regions Lead the UK’s Green Job Growth?
ONS figures show regional variation in green employment. The East Midlands records the highest proportion of employees in high-emission industries (23.9%), while London, with its strong services sector, has the lowest at just 7.2%. Scotland, Yorkshire, the Humber, and the east of England are key hotspots for job creation due to significant wind and solar projects and their supply chains.
At Atlantic Renewables, our expert engineers operate nationwide, and we pride ourselves on supporting green job creation—delivering the benefits of the renewables revolution to every corner of the UK.
What Defines a Green Job in the Modern UK Economy?
“Green jobs” covers more than just technical installation; it now includes planning, consultancy, project management, logistics, and supply chain. The official definition includes full-time equivalents in sectors considered green by activities, firms, and occupations. This broad base ensures opportunities for workers from all backgrounds and skill sets.
As the UK scales up for net-zero emissions, the broad definition of green jobs ensures nearly every discipline, from administration and finance to hands-on technicians, can be a part of the solution.
How to Start Your Green Career in Solar and Renewable Energy?
Are you inspired to join the green revolution? The solar, battery storage, and renewables space is booming. Atlantic Renewables offers expert guidance, solar PV installation, and maintenance, as well as well-supported career pathways for both newcomers and experienced energy professionals. With the solar PV sector alone set to support up to 35,000 jobs by 2030, there has never been a better time to join this exciting movement.
For insights into opportunities and to see how our engineers make a difference daily, check out our blog and case studies at Atlantic Renewables.
Get in touch
If you are keen to future-proof your career with a green job in renewable energy—or want to benefit from a solar PV or battery storage system at your property—contact Atlantic Renewables today! Call our team of experts on 0161 207 4044 to find out how you can help shape the sustainable economy and power your life with solar energy.
