Does Renewable Energy Create More Jobs?

Does Renewable Energy Create More Jobs?

When it comes to considering the Renewable Energy industry and the economy, there’s always one question on everyone’s mind: does renewable energy actually create more jobs? 

To put it simply, the answer is yes! The more complex answer, however, involves a need for a deeper understanding of the impact of Renewable Energy not only on the economy, but other areas of the energy industry too.

To begin with, let’s take a look at the figures…

Does Renewable Energy Create More Jobs?

According to the UN, “worldwide employment in the renewable energy sector reached 12.7 million in 2021.” If you’re up to date with your renewable energy statistics, you’ll know that this is a jump of almost 700,000 new jobs in just twelve short months. 

Solar energy is powering ahead with the most jobs created – it provided approximately 4.3 million jobs altogether in 2021, making it one of the fastest-growing sectors in the industry. This is primarily due to increased demand for domestic and commercial use of solar panels – a trend that is set to continue to grow in the coming months and years. 

The figures above alone make it clear that the renewable energy industry does, indeed, create more jobs. But is it creating more jobs than fossil fuels? 

Does Renewable Energy Create more Jobs than Fossil Fuels?

As renewable energy becomes more and more popular and demand increases, the need for fossil fuels reduces. As within any industry with reduced needs of its resources, this, in turn, means that there are fewer jobs in fossil fuels available. There simply isn’t the demand there for them. 

Take this, for example. 

A recent study revealed that “for every million dollars the United States invests [in renewable energy], solar power produces over 2.7 times more jobs than fossil fuels.” 

Similarly, “wind energy spurs over 2.8 times more jobs than investments in oil, gas and coal” and “dollar for dollar, solar energy creates a global average of 1.5 times as many jobs as investing the same money into fossil fuels.” 

In short, not only are green jobs and the renewable energy industry good for our environment, but they’re also working wonders for our economy. 

Green jobs are often well-paid, offer excellent opportunities for career progression, and, as we’ve seen, are definitely not in short supply. Moving forward, skilled workers with experience in and a passion for renewable energy will play a crucial part in sustaining our environment and our economy.

Could you work in the Renewable Energy Industry? 

Renewable Energy roles are plentiful. With several sectors – such as solar, wind and geothermal energy – seeing increases in demand, finding skilled workers to fulfil those roles is more essential than ever. 

Here at Mackinnon & Partners, we strive to match you to your perfect renewable energy role. Whether you’re looking into kickstarting a career in solar energy or are already established in the industry and would like to move to a more senior role, we can help.

For more information on our Renewable Energy Recruitment process, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our brilliant Renewable Energy Recruiters.