The Electricity, Gas and Water Supply Industry

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All these industries have changed over the past ten years. Both the electricity and gas industries are now in the private sector; with the number of jobs in each reduced. The number of jobs in electricity has fallen by more than half.

In Scotland, the water industry has remained in the public sector. The waste sector is a combination of both the private and public sector.

The numbers of jobs in each sector are as follows:

• Gas and Electricity 15,000
• Water 6,000
• Waste 10,000 to 12,000 (Local authorities are the main employers; with 8,000 jobs)

Areas Included

These industries affect all our lives and jointly are known as the "utilities".

They provide a range of vital public services, including:

• gas and electricity generation and distribution
• water supply
• waste water treatment
• renewable energy

In general, the workforce in the electricity, gas and water sectors is highly qualified.

• There are jobs at all levels. There is a high demand for skilled engineers and technicians; scientists; operatives and customer care staff
• Skilled trades account for the highest number of jobs.
• The waste management sector in Scotland has a high number of low skilled jobs such as drivers, plant and machine operatives and labourers.
• The waste industry has a poor image problem and suffers from a high turnover of staff in low skilled jobs.

For a full list of jobs in the industry see below.

What’s it like to work in the electricity, gas and water supply industry

• This industry will appeal most to those with an interest in scientific and technical work.
• All the industries are controlled by legislation.
• Almost 80% of employees are male.
• Most jobs are full time (90%) – there are very few part time jobs.
• The number of jobs has fallen rapidly in recent years as a result of privatisation.
• Self employment accounts for less than 1 in 20 jobs.
• The average age of a worker is high. The majority will reach retirement age in the next decade.
• Privatisation has changed the accessibility to training: some companies consider the costs are now too high.
• The energy sector is now highly competitive; customers want the best deals for their gas and electricity.

Future Trends

• The skilled workforce is ageing so there is a need to recruit young people.
• Total employment will remain stable over the next ten years.
• An increase in the use of renewable energy is expected over the next ten years.
• The waste management sector will need more high level jobs such as process engineers and technical staff such as chemists and lab technicians.

Find out more about where the jobs are in your area.

Useful Information

Energy and Utility Skills is the Sector Skills Council for a major part of this industry.

COGENT is the Sector Skills Council for the Oil and Gas Extraction Industry.

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Occupations

Cleaner - Industrial
Clerk
Electrician
Electricity Distribution Worker
Gas Distribution Worker
Gas Engineer
Gas Installer
Meter Reader
Waste Water Process Plant Operator
Water Keeper/Water Bailiff
Water Treatment Plant Operator