George Sakellaris, the founder and CEO of Ameresco, is leading the charge in the renewable energy industry, which has seen significant growth due to the need to decarbonize and increase efficiencies. With policies like the Inflation Reduction Act driving this growth, there is a sense of urgency to sustain momentum in the industry. One critical obstacle that could potentially slow down this progress is the workforce itself, highlighting the importance of filling talent and skill gaps across various industries, especially in renewable energy.
The urgency to transition to clean energy sources and embrace sustainable practices has become increasingly clear in our warming world, with events like massive wildfires, 100-year storms, and rising sea levels becoming more frequent. Morningstar predicts that renewable energy will triple by 2032, accounting for 45% of energy generation in the United States. This rapid ascent of renewable energy will require a skilled workforce to support it at all levels and throughout the supply chain.
Solar energy is expected to be one of the fastest-growing renewable energy technologies, with nearly half of all solar capacity installed in the last three years. The Department of Energy projects that the solar industry will need to grow from 330,000 workers to 1.5 million workers by 2035 for the U.S. to achieve its decarbonization goals. In Massachusetts alone, over 38,000 workers will need to be trained and prepared for climate-critical work by 2030.
Business leaders can support renewable energy initiatives by hiring locally whenever possible, creating job opportunities for the local workforce and businesses. Strategic engagement with regional subcontractor networks can enhance the effectiveness of local hiring efforts and support the renewable energy ecosystem. By investing in cooperative education, internship, and mentorship programs with higher education institutions, businesses can strengthen the talent pipeline and cultivate the next generation of energy game-changers.
The American Climate Corps initiative is training young people for jobs in the clean energy economy, emphasizing the importance of bringing the younger generation into the renewable energy workforce. By providing opportunities for internships and cooperative education, companies can help students explore career paths, gain relevant knowledge and experience, and develop a professional network. As the energy industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for businesses to embrace and train the next generation of leaders to drive the industry forward toward a more sustainable future.
