Home solar has created a tremendous amount of jobs by using the sun as our ultimate source of energy for thousands of years to come. Solar energy not only powers our planet but also fuels economic growth. As solar energy adoption continues to rise, it brings a surge of job opportunities. Let’s explore how solar installations create employment, benefit local communities, and economic stability.

Skilled Labor Demand

Solar installations are intricate systems that require skilled professionals at every stage:

• Design: Engineers and architects design solar arrays, considering factors like panel placement, orientation, and efficiency.
• Installation: Electricians, technicians, and laborers work on-site, ensuring precise panel placement, wiring, and connection to the grid.
• Maintenance: Ongoing system maintenance, including cleaning, inspections, and repairs, sustains solar efficiency.
• According to IREC solar storage battery development is a rapidly growing industry
  • There were 85,858 workers employed in clean storage jobs in 2022, a 4.6% increase from 2021. Clean energy storage is an employment boom, with jobs growing 28% since 2017. 
  • Among all clean storage workers, 72,923 employees, or 85% of the total, worked in battery storage. In total, 432,000 workers in solar energy production and clean energy storage jobs in 2022.
  • More than 50% of battery storage workers were involved in construction, including installing the battery storage projects. Another 19% were involved in battery manufacturing, and others were involved in professional and business services or wholesale trade.
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Local Job Opportunities

As communities embrace solar, job opportunities emerge right in their neighborhoods:

• Local Electricians: Solar installations demand electrical expertise. Local electricians find steady work in solar projects.
• Engineers and Technicians: Engineers specializing in renewable energy and technicians skilled in solar system maintenance are in high demand.
• Construction Workers: Solar projects create construction jobs during installation.

Economic Stability

Solar companies recognize the value of hiring from the local workforce:

• Community Investment: By employing local talent, solar companies help the economic stability in the community from the jobs created.
• Reduced Commuting: Hiring locally reduces commuting distances, benefiting employees and the environment.
• Skill Development: Training local workers in solar technology enhances their skill set and employability.

Solar Industry Growth

The solar industry isn’t just about panels; it’s about people:

• Installer Jobs: The U.S. solar industry employed over 230,000 workers in 2020, with solar installers being a significant portion.
• Diverse Roles: Beyond installation, the industry offers jobs in sales, marketing, research, and development.

Community Impact

Solar job creation extends beyond the workforce:

• Education: Solar projects in schools and colleges provide educational opportunities. Students learn about renewable energy firsthand.
• Local Economy Boost: Solar companies pay taxes, rent office spaces, and engage with local suppliers, stimulating economic growth.

Solar energy isn’t just about clean power; it’s about empowering communities. As solar installations multiply, so do the job opportunities. From electricians on rooftops to engineers in offices. The solar industry illuminates local economies, one panel at a time.

So next time you see a solar array glistening in the sun, remember that it’s capturing not just photons but also livelihoods. U.S. Solar Industry Diversity Study 2021 energy.go