In this paper we present findings from a systematic review on job creation, quality,
and skills, focusing on decarbonisation in the energy sector. We compare a range of
gross job employment factors which indicate that overall, investment in renewable
energy and energy efficiency can deliver more jobs than gas or coal power
generation. In addition, we review a subset of recent studies which estimate the net
employment effects of decarbonisation in the energy sector at a national scale,
across various international contexts. These national studies largely agree that the
most likely outcome over the next few decades is a modest net positive creation of
jobs and moderate economic growth. In certain regions within these countries, jobs in
fossil fuel industries may be lost faster than the pace at which low carbon energy
sectors can offer new employment. There may be mismatches between regions
where displaced workers live and where new opportunities become available, which
may be a barrier to accepting alternative employment even if former workers have
the requisite skills. In these cases national government transition plans are
recommended, co-ordinated with local governments, to manage the impacts of
displacement from carbon intensive sectors and respond to the need to build a new
low carbon workforce including through skills development and training. We highlight
a lack of metrics and data in the literature on job quality, skills, and the geographic
distribution of employment impacts in decarbonising energy systems, and these
should be priority areas for further research.