(Agence Ecofin) – The year 2023 saw the largest recorded increase in jobs within the renewable energy sector, rising from 13.7 million in 2022 to 16.2 million. This represents an 18% year-on-year growth, reflecting the significant expansion in renewable energy production capacity.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), in its report titled Renewable energy and jobs: Annual review 2024, published on October 1, states that 16.2 million jobs have been documented in the renewable energy sector in 2023, an increase from 13.7 million in 2022.
China accounts for 7.4 million jobs, which is 46% of the global total. The European Union (EU) has 1.8 million jobs, Brazil has 1.6 million, and both the United States and India each have just over a million.
According to the report, 7.1 million jobs are generated by the solar photovoltaic (PV) sector, representing 44% of the overall workforce. China leads in this area with 4.6 million jobs, while the EU follows with only 720,000 jobs. Hydroelectric power is expected to contribute 2.3 million jobs in 2023, which is a 4% decrease compared to 2022, signaling a slowdown in the rate of new construction.
Additionally, 2.8 million jobs have been identified in the biofuels sector, and there are 1.5 million jobs in wind energy. In the wind sector, China again tops the chart with 745,000 jobs, while Europe, which ranks second, has about 316,300 jobs.
In terms of Africa, the continent currently receives only a small fraction of global investments in renewable energy, resulting in a relatively low number of jobs. Nevertheless, Africa possesses immense potential and needs in renewable energy.
Realizing this potential will require not only increased investment and enhanced international cooperation but also support for education, skills, workforce development, and the creation of regional supply chains.
Abdullah Diop
Record Growth in Renewable Energy Jobs: Insights from 2023
(Agence Ecofin) – The year 2023 was marked by the largest increase ever recorded in the number of jobs in renewable energies, going from 13.7 million in 2022 to 16.2 million. This 18% year-on-year jump reflects the strong growth in renewable energy production capacity.
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), in its report entitled Renewable Energy and Jobs: Annual Review 2024 published on October 1, indicates that 16.2 million jobs have been identified in the renewable energy sector in 2023, compared to 13.7 million in 2022. This data underscores the rapid expansion of the renewable energy sector, reflecting a global shift towards sustainable energy practices.
Global Employment Breakdown in Renewable Energy
The distribution of jobs in renewable energy is not uniform across the globe. Here’s an overview:
- China: Holds a staggering 7.4 million jobs, accounting for 46% of the global total.
- European Union (EU): Contributes 1.8 million jobs.
- Brazil: Registers 1.6 million jobs.
- United States: Just over 1 million jobs.
- India: Also has just over 1 million jobs.
Sector Specific Employment Insights
The IRENA report breaks down the types of renewable energy jobs, highlighting the leading sectors:
| Sector | Number of Jobs in 2023 | Percentage of Total Jobs |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Photovoltaic (PV) | 7.1 million | 44% |
| Hydroelectricity | 2.3 million | 14% |
| Biofuels | 2.8 million | 17% |
| Wind Energy | 1.5 million | 9% |
The solar photovoltaic sector is clearly the leader, employing 7.1 million people or 44% of the total workforce in renewable energy. China dominates this sector with 4.6 million jobs, while the EU follows with 720,000 jobs.
Regional Studies: A Closer Look at Key Markets
China: The Renewable Energy Powerhouse
China’s significant share of the global renewable jobs is driven by its massive investment in solar and wind energy. The country created 745,000 jobs in wind energy, reinforcing its role as a leader in renewable technologies.
Europe’s Renewable Energy Landscape
The European Union holds a commendable position in renewable energy jobs but still trails behind China. The EU’s commitment to sustainability has resulted in substantial job growth, particularly in the solar and wind energy sectors.
Brazil’s Fast-Growing Renewable Sector
Brazil’s renewable energy sector, particularly in biofuels, showcases significant job creation, demonstrating an expanding market that leverages its vast natural resources.
Africa: Untapped Potential and Future Opportunities
Despite its vast potential in renewable energy, Africa’s share of the global investment remains low, resulting in relatively few jobs compared to other regions. Key challenges include a lack of infrastructure, limited investment, and insufficient local workforce training.
- Investment Needs: Increased investment in renewable projects is vital for job creation in Africa.
- Education and Skills Development: Developing a skilled workforce tailored to the renewable energy sector is crucial.
- Regional Supply Chains: Establishing supply chains can enhance local job creation and industry sustainability.
Addressing these challenges requires collective efforts from governments, international organizations, and private sector stakeholders to turn Africa’s potential into reality.
Benefits of Investing in Renewable Energy
Investing in renewable energy not only addresses environmental concerns but also stimulates economic growth. Some key benefits include:
- Job Creation: Each renewable project can create numerous jobs across various skill levels.
- Energy Security: Reducing dependence on fossil fuels enhances national energy security.
- Environmental Sustainability: Transitioning to renewables significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions.
Practical Tips for Stakeholders
For businesses, investors, and governments looking to capitalize on the renewable energy boom:
- Invest in Education: Focus on educational initiatives that equip the workforce with necessary skills in renewable technologies.
- Foster International Collaboration: Share resources and expertise across borders to strengthen global efforts in renewable energy.
- Support Innovative Projects: Fund and promote projects that leverage local resources and technologies.
The renewable energy sector presents diverse opportunities and challenges. Engaging in this field through education, investment, and cooperation can lead to a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Abdullah Diop
