The Future of Gas Installation in the Era of Renewable Energy

As the world transitions toward a low-carbon economy, the energy landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. Fossil fuels, once the backbone of global energy supply, are increasingly being replaced or supplemented by renewable sources such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. In this shift, natural gas has often been seen as a “bridge fuel,” offering a cleaner alternative to coal and oil. But as technological and policy trends increasingly favor zero-emission energy, the future of gas installation—especially in residential, commercial, and industrial settings—is at a pivotal crossroads.

The Role of Gas Today

Natural gas plays a major role in energy supply around the world. It is used for heating, electricity generation, cooking, and industrial processes. In countries like Australia, the UK, and the United States, gas installations remain a common feature of homes and businesses alike. It is widely appreciated for its efficiency, reliability, and historically lower emissions compared to other fossil fuels.

As of 2023, about 38% of U.S. households used natural gas for space heating, and roughly 50% of homes used gas water heaters (source). These numbers underline how embedded gas infrastructure is in the built environment. But while gas offers some advantages over coal and oil, it is still a carbon-emitting fossil fuel. Methane, its primary component, is a potent greenhouse gas—up to 80 times more effective than CO₂ at trapping heat over a 20-year period.

The Rise of Renewable Energy

Renewable energy adoption is accelerating at unprecedented levels. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), renewable energy capacity is set to account for over 90% of global electricity expansion between 2022 and 2027. Solar and wind power are leading the charge, with plummeting costs and widespread policy support helping them gain ground.

One key driver of this transition is the growing urgency to address climate change. Countries around the world are setting net-zero targets, committing to phasing out fossil fuels and embracing greener technologies. In Europe, for instance, the European Union aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

As these policies take hold, the energy sector is witnessing a fundamental restructuring. And that puts the future of gas installation into sharp focus.

Decarbonizing Buildings: A New Paradigm

In the built environment, decarbonization strategies are increasingly turning away from gas. Modern building codes, incentive programs, and regulatory frameworks are pushing for electrification—replacing gas appliances with electric alternatives powered by clean energy. Heat pumps, induction cooktops, and electric water heaters are now seen as the way forward.

The shift is already underway. In places like California and New York, new residential gas connections are being restricted or banned altogether. Cities such as Berkeley, San Francisco, and Seattle have implemented measures that prohibit or heavily discourage gas infrastructure in new developments. In Australia, Victoria announced it will ban gas connections in new homes starting in 2024—a move expected to reshape installation demand across the construction industry (source).

These policies are backed by consumer sentiment as well. As people become more climate-conscious, demand for low-emission homes and buildings is rising. Moreover, advances in energy efficiency and building materials have made it easier than ever to construct all-electric homes that are not only green but also cost-effective.

What This Means for Gas Installers

The decline of new gas infrastructure in some regions does not spell an immediate end for the gas installation industry—but it does indicate a transformation. Installers, plumbers, and heating professionals who have traditionally focused on gas may need to upskill or diversify their services to remain competitive.

Here are a few ways the gas installation sector is evolving:

1. Retrofitting and Maintenance Work

Even as new gas connections are phased out, millions of existing gas systems remain in operation. Retrofitting old systems, upgrading components, and maintaining gas appliances will continue to offer steady work for skilled technicians in the medium term. This includes work on boilers, furnaces, hot water systems, and gas cooking appliances.

However, this line of work may gradually taper off as electrification efforts gain ground. Governments are likely to incentivize the replacement of gas appliances with electric ones, and installers will need to position themselves accordingly.

2. Hydrogen and Biogas Opportunities

One of the most promising avenues for the future of gas installation lies in renewable gases—chiefly green hydrogen and biogas. These fuels offer a lower-emission alternative to traditional natural gas and can often be distributed through existing gas networks with minimal modification.

Hydrogen, produced using renewable electricity and water, has significant potential in decarbonizing sectors where direct electrification is difficult, such as heavy industry or high-temperature processes. Pilot programs in Australia, Germany, and the UK are already testing hydrogen blending in residential gas networks.

However, widespread adoption remains years away. Green hydrogen is still expensive to produce, and questions remain about its safety, efficiency, and infrastructure needs. Still, it represents a potential lifeline for gas networks—and a new frontier for gas installers.

3. Electrification and Cross-Training

Forward-thinking professionals are already investing in skills that enable them to work on electric heating systems, such as heat pump installation and solar thermal systems. These technologies are expected to dominate new builds and retrofits alike. Electricians, HVAC technicians, and plumbers who can offer integrated, low-emission solutions will be in high demand.

Organizations that currently specialize in gas could expand their offerings to include renewable energy consulting, battery storage solutions, or even energy management services. As homes become smarter and more energy efficient, demand will rise for professionals who can integrate these systems cohesively.

Technological Innovations Shaping the Future

Innovation in both gas and electric technologies will continue to impact installation practices. Smart meters, sensors, and IoT-enabled appliances are creating new layers of complexity in residential and commercial systems. For example:

• Smart Gas Detection: Devices that monitor for gas leaks and provide early alerts are becoming increasingly common, improving safety and compliance.
• Hybrid Systems: Some homes are adopting hybrid heating solutions, where a gas boiler works alongside a heat pump. These systems optimize energy use based on external temperatures and energy prices.
• Remote Monitoring: Installers can now offer monitoring and diagnostics as a service, using connected systems to detect issues before they become major problems.

By embracing these technologies, gas professionals can move beyond traditional installation work into value-added services and long-term client relationships.

Policy and Market Forces

The direction of gas installation will be heavily influenced by policy, subsidies, and market forces. Carbon pricing, energy efficiency mandates, and building codes will shape which technologies are adopted and when.

Some jurisdictions may choose to invest in renewable gas infrastructure to preserve jobs and make use of existing pipelines. Others may opt for full electrification. For installers and businesses, staying on top of these developments will be critical. Trade associations, government programs, and training providers can offer resources to help navigate the transition.

Market forces are also crucial. As the cost of renewable energy continues to fall and technologies like heat pumps become cheaper and more efficient, the economic rationale for installing gas systems weakens. Conversely, in areas with unreliable electricity grids or very cold climates, gas may continue to serve as a valuable complement.

Environmental and Health Considerations

Beyond carbon emissions, natural gas raises concerns about indoor air quality. Combustion-based appliances can release nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter—all of which have been linked to respiratory issues, especially in children.

As public awareness of these health risks grows, the appeal of gas-free homes increases. This trend reinforces the broader move toward electrification and clean energy, adding another pressure point on the gas installation industry.

The Road Ahead

The future of gas installation is not one of extinction but of adaptation. While some traditional applications may decline, new opportunities will arise—for those willing to pivot.

Gas installers who embrace renewable energy, understand smart systems, and can deliver integrated home energy solutions will be in a strong position to succeed. Training, certification, and cross-disciplinary skills will be vital tools in this evolving landscape.

Ultimately, the industry’s role will shift from simply delivering fuel to delivering comfort, efficiency, and sustainability. In that future, those who adapt fastest will thrive.