New York State is setting new records in clean energy job growth, with a record-breaking 171,000 individuals employed in clean energy sectors at the end of 2022. This milestone highlights the high-quality career opportunities and sustainable pathways to success that are being created in New York’s green economy. The state’s clean energy industry has been outpacing overall job growth statewide, demonstrating the significant potential for job creation and economic development in the clean energy sector.
The 2023 New York Clean Energy Industry Report, released by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), provides valuable insights into the state’s clean energy economy. The report reveals that New York’s clean energy industry grew by 3.5 percent from 2021 to 2022, adding nearly 30,000 jobs since 2015. These jobs spanned across various technology sectors within the clean energy industry, with building decarbonization and energy efficiency leading the way by adding over 2,000 jobs and accounting for 75 percent of all clean energy employment in 2022.
Clean and alternative transportation also experienced exceptional growth, expanding by almost 20 percent, and grid modernization and energy storage grew by 10 percent. Furthermore, renewable electric power generation saw a 5 percent increase, creating over 1,200 new jobs in the sector.
The report also highlights the high job satisfaction among clean energy workers, with 88 percent of respondents reporting satisfaction with their careers. Clean energy workers expressed positive sentiments about promotion opportunities, wage growth, additional training, and overall job growth prospects, indicating the strong potential for career development in the clean energy industry.
To support the growth of clean energy jobs and ensure a just and equitable transition, NYSERDA has committed over $170 million toward workforce development and training initiatives. These programs prioritize underserved populations, including low-income individuals, veterans, disabled workers, single parents, the formerly incarcerated, and those from disadvantaged communities. Additionally, efforts are being made to integrate fossil fuel workers into the clean energy industry and create career awareness in K-12 schools.
With its progressive climate agenda, New York State is leading the way in creating a more sustainable and equitable future. The clean energy industry not only presents economic benefits but also contributes to combating climate change and reducing the state’s carbon footprint. As the state continues to advance its clean energy goals, the development of a robust clean energy workforce remains a key priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many clean energy jobs were there in New York State at the end of 2022?
At the end of 2022, there were a record-breaking 171,000 clean energy jobs in New York State.
2. Which sectors within the clean energy industry experienced the most growth?
Building decarbonization and energy efficiency were the leading sectors, adding over 2,000 jobs and accounting for 75 percent of all clean energy employment in 2022. Clean and alternative transportation also experienced significant growth, expanding by almost 20 percent.
3. Are clean energy workers satisfied with their careers?
Yes, according to surveys conducted among clean energy workers, 88 percent of respondents reported satisfaction with their careers. This includes positive feedback about promotion opportunities, wage growth, additional training, and overall job growth prospects.
4. How is New York State supporting workforce development in the clean energy industry?
New York State is committed to workforce development and has allocated over $170 million toward training and initiatives. These programs prioritize underserved populations, integrate fossil fuel workers into the clean energy industry, and create career awareness in K-12 schools.
5. What are New York State’s clean energy goals?
New York State aims for a just transition to a zero-emissions grid, creating family-sustaining jobs and directing at least 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of clean energy investments to disadvantaged communities. The state is committed to fostering a green economy across all sectors and reducing its carbon footprint to combat climate change.