Developing a Global Energy Efficiency Workforce in the Buildings Sector

At COP28, all countries committed to work together to collectively double the global average annual rate of energy efficiency improvements. They also recognised the role of energy efficiency as the “first fuel” in the clean energy transition. Implementing this global target, will require a skilled workforce. In the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario, the growth of the energy efficiency workforce will be led by the building sector, which will create 1.3 million jobs over the next six years. Yet many countries face labour shortages for key energy efficiency occupations.

This practical guide pilots an approach to help policymakers identify the key energy efficiency jobs and skills in the buildings sector. IEA analysis finds that training workers for occupations addressing building insulation, the installation and repair of efficient cooling, heating, ventilation and refrigeration devices (HVAC/R) and windows can address the largest drivers of building energy demand across climates.

Those occupations are insulation workers, building and construction inspectors (energy auditors), HVAC/R mechanics and installers and glaziers. Training a range of professionals including construction workers, electricians and workers who will design buildings with improved energy efficiency from the outset will also be vital to achieve global energy efficiency targets. These workers will require different types and lengths of training. Involving policymakers, employers, trade unions and other stakeholders is vital to coordinate the alignment between those training requirements and the jobs and skills that will be relevant and provide energy efficiency workers with decent jobs and wages through formal and inclusive pathways.

This report is part of the work of the Clean Energy Ministerial Empowering People Initiative (CEM EPI).