Image

Report: Clean Energy Industry Poised for Growth

April 23, 2012
Earth Day may have come and gone, but new clean-energy projects could make a lasting impact on the economy, the job market and the environment. According to a new report from Environmental Entrepreneurs (E2), such projects could provide up to 46,000 new U.S. jobs during the first quarter of 2012.

The report, "What Clean Energy Jobs? These Clean Energy Jobs!" indicates that clean-energy employers are planning at least 137 projects in 42 states during the first quarter of this year. This report confirms what other studies have suggested – namely, that the clean energy industry is poised for continued growth.

"These numbers show us that our nation's investments in clean energy are paying off," said Judith Albert, E2's executive director.

"The jobs announcements over the three months feature a wide range of companies: major multinational corporations like GE, Nissan, and General Motors, as well as small, entrepreneurial start-ups," the report states. "Innovative companies are also retooling their operations to take advantage of the growth in clean energy."

Key findings from the report:

· Power generation companies announced the most clean energy jobs in the first quarter. Wind, solar, biomass, geothermal and other renewable energy sectors announced 68 projects that together would create more than 18,000 jobs.
· Manufacturing companies making everything from electric vehicles to solar panels and wind turbine parts announced 35 projects in the quarter that would create more than 10,000 jobs. "These announcements mirror findings recently released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which determined that the manufacturing sector leads in the creation of 'green goods and services' jobs that now employ a total of 3.1 million Americans," the report stated.
· Many of the first-quarter job announcements were connected to federal, state or local projects, ranging from building and home efficiency programs in Chicago and Wisconsin to a county-backed solar farm in Florida.
· Connecticut led all states in terms of total clean energy jobs announced in the quarter. Other leading states include Illinois, Indiana, North Carolina and Texas.

This report is based on job announcements compiled from formal announcements and media reports. It includes projects and programs in various stages of development, mainly in the manufacturing, energy, biofuels and public transportation sectors.

E2, an affiliate of the Natural Resources Defense Council, is a nationwide network of business leaders who advocate for good environmental policy while building economic prosperity. To view E2's report in full, visit http://www.e2.org/cleanjobs.

About the Author

Laura Walter

Laura Walter was formerly senior editor of EHS Today. She is a subject matter expert in EHS compliance and government issues and has covered a variety of topics relating to occupational safety and health. Her writing has earned awards from the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE), the Trade Association Business Publications International (TABPI) and APEX Awards for Publication Excellence. Her debut novel, Body of Stars (Dutton) was published in 2021.

Sponsored Recommendations

What is the key difference between OSHAS 18001 vs. ISO 45001

March 13, 2025
Learn about the main differences between OHSAS 18001 and ISO 45001, and how ISO 45001 takes a proactive approach to prevent work-related incidents. Find out why businesses should...

Ensuring a Safer Workplace through a Comprehensive Contractor Qualification Framework

March 13, 2025
Avetta is a leader in contractor management, and with over 15 years of industry experience, we can help you establish a robust contractor pre-qualification program that aligns...

EQT Private Equity to Acquire Avetta from WCAS

March 13, 2025
EQT commits to supporting Avetta in its ongoing growth and innovation journey.

Guide to OSHA Workplace Lighting Requirements

March 13, 2025
Learn OSHA workplace lighting requirements to enhance safety, productivity, and quality. Discover standards, compliance benefits, and risks of non-compliance.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!