Renewable Energy Jobs

The energy sector increased by over 300,000 jobs and was the fastest-growing job market in the U.S. before the COVID-19 pandemic. Aligning with the U.S. climate goals, jobs in renewable energy comprised 40% of energy jobs in 2021.

Government regulations and legislation, like the Investment Tax Credit, support job security in the renewable energy industry. The federal government has set a goal for net-zero emissions to combat climate change by 2050. Traditional electricity uses fossil fuels like coal and gas, which emit harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Transitioning to renewable energy sources provides growth opportunities for those in energy-related careers.

We connected with the CEO of EnergiaWorks, William Liuzza, to gain insight into the green energy job market.Energeia Works is a renewable energy recruitment firm connecting people to jobs in solar, energy storage, electric vehicle, and other energy sectors.  

Liuzza said, “Historically, legislation has spurred investment from venture capitalists and private equity, directly leading to increased wind and solar projects and major growth in job creation. Each time a major bill like this passes, it solidifies the legitimacy of the industry.” 

The energy sector is rapidly evolving and adopting clean energy. If you’re passionate about combatting climate change or interested in a career with job security and growth opportunities, explore roles in renewable energy. 

Careers in the solar industry

Thousands of jobs exist in the solar and renewable industry. If you experience job loss in fossil fuels, you have many transferable skills to roles in solar and other related energy fields. The Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) provides helpful career maps to explore potential jobs and career routes in clean energy. The maps include roles for professionals in finance, sales, project management, construction, maintenance, and more. 

“There’s a talent shortage across renewable energy, and salaries are on the rise. Most especially in the fast-growing solar PV and battery energy storage fields,” said Liuzza. 

The following table displays some popular roles in the solar industry, median pay, and preferred education level. The median salary is based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. 

Solar energy careers

Renewable energy career transition

The transition from coal to renewable energy sources is reflected in the job market. Jobs misplaced in the fossil fuel industry due to the green energy transition can find opportunities in renewables. 

“Now that renewable energy production outpaces coal, it’s even more reason for fossil fuel professionals to move into renewable energy. Some of the skill sets are easily transferrable, and others can be learned with some training,” said Liuzza. 

Out of all electric power generation, the solar industry experienced the most significant growth, adding 24,006 workers in 2021. Solar companies employed 333,887 workers, while careers in the U.S. coal industry have decreased, employing 70,831 total workers in 2021.

Aligning with job growth trends, the production and consumption of solar energy have increased over the past decade. Renewable energy goals and incentives encourage the trend to continue.

Solar workforce programs and initiatives

The Department of Energy (DOE) estimates the solar workforce must increase between 250,000 and 1,250,000 workers by 2035 to reach net-zero emissions. Advancements in technology and workforce development initiatives further support career growth in the clean energy industry. 

The following includes a few work-based learning and educational programs.

• Solar Ready Vets: Provides solar career training for active-duty military and veterans to transition into the solar industry.
• Clean Energy Innovator Fellowship: A two-year program for recent graduates and energy professionals to support energy organizations and increase access to clean energy careers. 
• Clean Cities University Workforce Development Program: Provides internships for undergraduate and graduate students to impact their community through sustainable transportation projects.

“I’ve been in the industry for 13 years, and 2023 looks much different compared to solar and wind projects from 2010. We now have battery storage tied to renewable energy projects for when the wind isn’t blowing, and the sun isn’t shining. The remote monitoring of operational wind farms and solar assets also has improved equipment outages, predictive maintenance, and optimization. Drones are being used for project design, land surveying, and construction oversight. Lastly, machine learning and artificial intelligence have been instrumental in forecasting energy pricing in renewables,” said Liuzza.

Federal and state governments have carbon-free goals that require people to fill the positions and support the transition. There are many roles and opportunities available. 

“Show your passion and find your transferrable skill. The mission behind a clean energy future is something all incoming professionals should be able to stand behind and talk about. I also recommend you figure out exactly where your professional background might fit into the industry and study up,” said Liuzza.

Renewable energy jobs may become more accessible to people from all backgrounds with more competitive compensation. Renewables is an innovative industry, and now is a great time to explore green energy careers.