Gas vs Renewables

What Is Really Happening in the Industry?

As the energy sector continues to evolve, one question comes up time and time again. Is the industry moving away from gas in favour of renewables, or do both still have a place? For those working in the trades or considering training, understanding where the industry truly stands is key to making informed career decisions. The reality is less dramatic than headlines suggest. Gas and renewables are not competing in isolation. They currently work side by side, supporting the UK’s energy needs together.

Is It Really Gas vs Renewables?

Gas and renewables are often seen as opposing options, but in practice they complement each other. Gas remains a vital part of the UK energy system, particularly for heating homes and supporting industry. At the same time, renewable technologies such as wind and solar continue to grow to help reduce carbon emissions. This transition is gradual, and both areas rely on skilled engineers to function effectively.

The UK Energy Landscape Today

Around 80 percent of UK homes are still heated using gas, making it the dominant heating source nationwide. Meanwhile, renewable energy continues to expand, with wind and solar now generating over 40 percent of the UK’s electricity during peak periods. This blended system means demand remains strong for gas engineers, while renewable skills are becoming increasingly valuable across the industry.

Job Demand and Industry Reality

Gas engineers remain in high demand across domestic, commercial and industrial sectors.

While renewables are creating new roles, many of these still require core gas, heating or electrical knowledge. Employers increasingly value engineers who can work across multiple systems rather than specialising in one area.

Why Gas Skills Transfer So Well

Gas training provides a strong technical foundation that supports progression into renewable technologies. Skills such as system design, fault finding, commissioning, safety compliance and regulatory knowledge transfer directly into areas like heat pumps, hybrid systems and solar installations. This is why many engineers begin with gas training before expanding their skill set as the industry evolves.

Earnings and Progression Potential

Gas roles often offer immediate earning potential, with experienced engineers commanding strong salaries. Renewable roles are growing and can provide long term career progression, particularly for those with multiple qualifications. Engineers trained in both gas and renewable systems typically benefit from greater job security, wider opportunities and higher earning potential.

Training Pathways and the Lomax Approach

At Lomax, training reflects the real demands of the industry. Gas qualifications provide a solid starting point for apprentices, experienced tradespeople and career changers alike. From there, learners can progress into renewables and low carbon technologies, building a flexible skill set that remains relevant now and in the future.

Looking Ahead. A Blended Future

The future of energy is not gas or renewables, but a combination of both. Gas will continue to play a role in heating and infrastructure for years to come, while renewables expand to meet environmental targets. Engineers who understand both traditional systems and emerging technologies will be best placed to succeed in the changing energy landscape.

If your interested in the gas industry we are enrolling for domestic and utility apprentices, alongside a whole range of other options!