Worldwide employment in the renewable energy sector reached 12.7 million last year, a jump of 700,000 new jobs in just 12 months, despite the lingering effects of COVID-19 and the growing energy crisis, according to a new report published by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) in collaboration with the UN’s International Labour Organization (ILO).
Renewable Energy and Jobs: Annual Review 2022, identifies domestic market size as a major factor influencing job growth in renewables, along with labour and other costs.
Solar growing fastest
Solar energy was found to be the fastest-growing sector. In 2021 it provided 4.3 million jobs, more than a third of the current global workforce in renewable energy.
With rising concerns about climate change, COVID-19 recovery and supply chain disruption, countries are turning inwards to boost job creation at home, focusing on local supply chains.
The report describes how strong domestic markets are key to anchoring a drive toward clean energy industrialization. Developing renewable technology export capabilities is also dependent on this, it adds.
‘Just transition for all’
ILO Director-General, Guy Ryder, said that “beyond the numbers, there is a growing focus on the quality of jobs and the conditions of work in renewable energies, to ensure decent and productive employment.
“The increasing share of female employment suggests that dedicated policies and training can significantly enhance the participation of women in renewable energy occupations, inclusion and ultimately, achieve a just transition for all.”
Mr. Ryder encouraged governments, organized labour and business groups “to remain firmly committed to a sustainable energy transition, which is indispensable for the future of work.”
Resilient and reliable
IRENA’s Director-General, Francesco La Camera, said that in the face of numerous challenges, “renewable energy jobs remain resilient, and have been proven to be a reliable job creation engine. My advice to governments around the world is to pursue industrial policies that encourage the expansion of decent renewables jobs at home.
“Spurring a domestic value chain will not only create business opportunities and new jobs for people and local communities. It also bolsters supply chain reliability and contributes to more energy security overall.”
IMF/Crispin Rodwell
More electric vehicles on the road will mean less pollution and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Joining the renewable revolution
The report shows that an increasing number of countries are creating jobs in the renewables sector – almost two-thirds of them in Asia.
China alone accounts for 42 per cent of the global total, according to the report, followed by the EU and Brazil with 10 per cent each, and the US and India with seven per cent each.
Regional trends
Southeast Asian countries are becoming major solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing hubs and biofuel producers, while China is the pre-eminent manufacturer and installer of solar PV panels and is creating a growing number of jobs in offshore wind.
India added more than 10 Gigawatts of solar PV, generating many installation jobs, but remains heavily dependent on imported panels, the report notes.
Europe now accounts for about 40 per cent of the world’s wind manufacturing output and is the most important exporter of wind power equipment; it is trying to reconstitute its solar PV manufacturing industry.
Africa’s role is still limited, but the report points out that there are growing job opportunities in decentralized renewables, while in the Americas, Mexico is the leading supplier of wind turbine blades.
Brazil remains the leading employer in biofuels but is also adding many jobs in wind and solar PV installations. The US is beginning to build a domestic industrial base for the budding offshore wind sector.
Nora Chambers, an acclaimed journalist with a focus on global affairs and humanitarian issues, has dedicated over twenty years to reporting from conflict zones worldwide. Her work has spotlighted marginalized communities and highlighted urgent international concerns.
Renewable energy is truly impacting the global job market positively. It’s inspiring to see the industry growing, especially amidst the challenges of COVID-19. Solar energy’s rapid expansion is a clear testament to the potential for clean energy to drive economic opportunities and sustainability. We must continue to prioritize renewable energy development to ensure a sustainable future for all.
Solar energy has really been taking off as the fastest-growing sector, providing a significant number of jobs. It’s encouraging to see the renewable energy industry thriving despite the challenges we’ve faced in recent times.
Rising levels of employment in the renewable energy sector is certainly encouraging news amid the challenges of the pandemic and the energy crisis. It’s heartening to see the shift towards clean energy sources and the positive impact it’s having on job creation globally. Let’s continue to prioritize sustainable practices and support the growth of green jobs for a better future.
Solar energy seems to be leading the way in the renewable energy sector, with so many new jobs added last year. It’s inspiring to see the industry thriving despite the challenges of COVID-19 and the energy crisis. This report highlights the importance of investing in clean energy to create sustainable job opportunities at both local and global levels.
Do you think the growth in green jobs will continue at this pace in the coming years despite ongoing global challenges?
Yes, I believe the momentum in green job creation will persist in the upcoming years, even amidst the existing global challenges. The renewable energy sector has proven to be resilient and adaptable, showcasing sustained growth. With the increasing focus on sustainability and the urgent need for clean energy solutions, the demand for green jobs is likely to remain strong. It’s encouraging to see the positive impact these jobs have on both the environment and the economy, driving us towards a more sustainable future.
Solar energy is clearly leading the way in job creation within the renewable energy sector. It’s inspiring to see the growth despite the challenges of the pandemic and energy crisis. Governments need to prioritize supporting these industries for a sustainable future.
Solar energy is clearly leading the charge in job creation within the renewable energy sector. With the focus on local supply chains and clean energy industrialization, it’s heartening to see how the sector is rapidly expanding despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 and the energy crisis. This report highlights the importance of strong domestic markets in driving sustainable job growth in the green economy.
Renewable energy is the way of the future! It’s so encouraging to see almost 13 million new green jobs created despite the challenges we faced last year. This shows that the world is moving towards a more sustainable and cleaner energy future. Solar energy’s rapid growth is especially impressive, and it’s great to see countries prioritizing local job creation in the renewable energy sector.
Solar energy is truly shining bright as the fastest-growing sector! It’s impressive to see the significant job creation in renewables despite the challenges we faced due to COVID-19. This report highlights the importance of investing in clean energy for a sustainable future.
Wow! What an incredible achievement in the renewable energy sector! It’s inspiring to see the growth of green jobs despite the challenges we’ve faced. Solar energy leading the way is a hopeful sign for a more sustainable future. This report showcases the importance of investing in clean energy and local job creation for a greener planet.
Isn’t it amazing how the renewable energy sector keeps growing despite the challenges of the pandemic and energy crisis?
The significant increase in green job opportunities is a clear demonstration of the world’s shifting priorities towards sustainability and renewable energy sources. It’s inspiring to see the positive impact these new jobs are making in combating both the economic challenges and environmental concerns we are facing globally.