However, taking advantage of these opportunities, and ensuring the efficient operation of energy systems, depends upon the availability of the necessary skills. The mining segment appears to generate more jobs than the utilities segment in less than one third of the 41 LDCs, reflecting on the one hand the uneven distribution of fuel resource endowments, and on the other the capital-intensive nature of extractive industries, especially in the case of oil and gas. In statistics these are part of wholesale and retail trade employment, but detailed data are not available. Looking to the future, progress towards universal access and a transition towards a more modern energy sector have important implications for employment in the energy industry (as is also expected to happen with its value added generation).