How is Renewable Energy Creating Jobs?
Over 12.7 million people are currently employed in the Renewable Energy Industry, according to IRENA.
As it stands, the solar photovoltaic sector is the fastest-growing sector in the industry with 4.3 million jobs currently being filled, closely followed by the wind and hydropower sectors. This trend of expansion is set to continue, as suggested by the US Secretary of Energy, Jennifer Granholm:
‘America’s energy sector stands out with considerable job growth across nearly all industries. Jobs critical to our clean energy transition are on the rise and poised for more expansion.’
But how exactly is the renewable energy responsible for creating so many jobs? And could one of those jobs created be the perfect match for you?
How is Renewable Energy Creating Jobs?
As renewable energy gains even more government backing and thus more traction, it is only natural for the industry to expand. And, of course, any industry expansion requires a similar – if not greater – expansion in workforce.
While the renewable energy industry is creating job openings across a wide range of sectors and for an array of skill sets, three key areas stand out: Manufacturing, Construction and Installation and Operations and Maintenance. Let’s explore…
Manufacturing
The development of new technologies such as hydropower systems, solar panels and wind turbine blades requires a skilled workforce for a streamlined manufacturing and production line. This has created an abundance of jobs in the manufacturing sector, particularly where solar energy is concerned. 260,000 solar manufacturing jobs have been created in recent years across the US.
Construction and Installation
Once manufacturing has been taken care of, there is construction and installation to consider. As demand for these new technologies increases, so does the need for onsite workers to carry out, manage and oversee these processes. From constructing wind turbines out at sea to installing solar panels to residential buildings, the job opportunities within this sector are plentiful.
Operations and Maintenance
Once these technologies have been successfully installed, they require workers skilled in operation and maintenance to ensure they function effectively. This has, again, opened up thousands of stable, long-term employment opportunities for those skilled in these areas.
These sectors are just three of those within the renewable energy industry that have opened up thousands upon thousands of job opportunities in the US and across the world. Not only are these opportunities available in abundance, but they also come with a range of benefits, including:
- Higher than average salaries – Brooking Institution reports that ‘landing a clean energy job can equal an 8% – 19% income increase.’
- Job stability
- Opportunities for career progression
- The opportunity to make a difference in the real world
- Excellent employee benefits, including healthcare and paid time off
Renewable Energy Roles with Mackinnon & Partners
If you’re looking to kickstart a career in Renewable Energy or would like to move up your existing renewable energy career ladder, Mackinnon & Partners can help.
We match candidates to suitable Renewable Energy roles across the US. For more information, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
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