The global drive towards sustainability and climate change mitigation has propelled a significant upswing in the Renewable energy jobs in the USA.
In our latest blog, Dan Bisset, VP – North America, delves into the evolving employment landscape within this vibrant sector, highlighting the burgeoning opportunities and trends as the nation steers towards a more sustainable future.
The growth of renewable energy jobs in the USA
The renewable energy industry in the USA has seen substantial growth, driven by technological advances, favorable government policies, and heightened environmental consciousness.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s 2023 U.S. Energy and Employment Report (USEER) revealed that the energy sector, including renewable energy, added almost 300,000 jobs from 2021 to 2022, representing a 3.8% growth, surpassing the overall U.S. workforce growth rate of 3.1%.
In 2022, the renewable energy sector’s workforce expanded, reflecting a 3.9% growth, adding 114,000 jobs and increasing to over 40% of the total energy jobs
This growth is attributed to investments spurred by initiatives like President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, highlighting a national commitment to achieving a 100% clean electricity grid by 2035 and a net-zero economy by 2050.
Solar energy jobs
The solar industry remains a cornerstone of renewable energy employment, with solar jobs increasing by 12,000 in 2022, a growth rate of 3.7%. This expansion underscores the declining costs of solar technology and the impact of government incentives, solidifying solar energy’s role in the renewable sector.
Wind energy opportunities
The wind sector also saw notable growth, with 5,000 new jobs created in 2022, marking a 4.5% increase. The USA continues to be a leader in wind energy capacity, reinforcing the sector’s importance in the renewable energy job market.
Emerging sectors
Emerging renewable energy fields like geothermal have also experienced growth, with the geothermal workforce growing by 5.0% in 2022, adding 1,000 jobs.
These sectors contribute to the diversification and resilience of the renewable energy job market.
Government initiatives and policies
Governmental policies at both federal and state levels have been pivotal in shaping the renewable energy job landscape.
The Biden administration’s American Jobs Plan and state initiatives, such as California’s commitment to 100% clean energy by 2045, continue to foster job creation and industry growth.
Skills in demand
As the renewable energy projects’ complexity increases, there’s a growing demand for professionals with specialized skills in engineering, project management, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
The sector’s growth is also reflective of significant investments in education and training programs to equip the workforce with the necessary skills.
Challenges and solutions
Addressing challenges like workforce diversity and geographic disparities remains crucial.
Efforts include targeted recruitment, educational outreach, and partnerships aimed at building a more inclusive and skilled workforce.
Astute in the US
One thing I’ve noticed on my trips over to America since we launched Astute People Inc is the number of opportunities across the energy sector.
The renewable energy sector in the USA is a beacon of economic significance and environmental stewardship.
With continued growth and the creation of new opportunities, the sector represents a fertile ground for professionals at all career stages.
The upward trajectory of renewable energy jobs not only mirrors the sector’s vitality but also the collective stride towards a sustainable and cleaner future.
By integrating the most current data and insights, this updated blog reflects the dynamic state of renewable energy employment in the USA, underscoring the sector’s role in the broader economic and environmental context.
Current energy job opportunities in the US
If you’re looking for your next energy job opportunity in the USA, click here to view all of Astute’s live vacancies.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for permanent or contract energy staffing solutions, fill out the form and one of the Astute team will be in contact.
Find your ideal candidate
