Investments in energy efficiency and renewables could generate up to 40,000 jobs in Albania, according to an assessment included in the document “Comprehensive assessment of the potential for high-efficiency cogeneration and efficient district heating and cooling systems”, submitted to the Energy Community Secretariat.

The document analyses the development potential of the energy sector and its effects on the economy, stressing that the impact on the labor market is determined by two main factors: the creation of jobs from the installation of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies, as well as the long-term effects brought by the reduction in energy demand. “Investments in EE/RES create jobs for their installation and in the industry that produces the products and provides the relevant services,” the report states.

According to the analysis compiled from over 20 international sources, on average 20–22 new jobs are created for every Euro 1 million invested in energy efficiency measures in the building stock. A 2022 pan-European study concludes that 18 direct jobs are created for every Euro 1 million invested, while Euro 1 in the construction sector generates 2.2 euros in other sectors of the economy.

When indirect effects are included, the total number reaches around 19.5–20 jobs for every Euro 1 million invested. Based on these indicators, the report estimates that a large-scale energy renovation program in buildings and industry in Albania could translate into around 35,000 to 40,000 new jobs in total.

“The implementation of EE/RES in the buildings sector is a strategic opportunity for employment,” the document stresses, arguing that the installation of technologies is more labor-intensive than their production. For this reason, energy efficiency in buildings is considered among the top priorities for policies aimed at economic growth and reducing unemployment.

The report also highlights that the benefits are not limited to employment. “The development of jobs in energy efficiency in buildings is a key area where economic growth is accompanied by reduced carbon emissions and increased energy security,” the report continues.

In the long term, the demand for skills in this sector is expected to remain high. “In 2050, European and global demand for skills in energy efficiency in buildings will still be high and permanent,” the document stresses, adding that these roles will be naturally integrated into the low-carbon economy.