In a recent collaboration between the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the tenth edition of the “Renewable Energy and Jobs: Annual Review 2023” has shed light on the remarkable growth of employment in the renewable energy sector. The report reveals that, in 2022, worldwide employment in renewable energy surged to 13.7 million, marking an impressive increase of one million jobs since 2021 and a substantial leap from the 7.3 million jobs reported in 2012.
While the growth is undeniable, it is essential to note that this employment boom remains concentrated in a handful of countries. Notably, China stands at the forefront, accounting for a substantial 41 percent of the global total. However, other nations, including Brazil, European Union (EU) countries, India, and the United States of America (USA), have also played pivotal roles. Together, they not only represent the majority of global capacity installations but also contribute significantly to the manufacturing of equipment, engineering services, and associated industries.
Solar photovoltaics (PV) continued to dominate the sector in 2022, employing a staggering 4.9 million individuals, which accounts for over a third of the total renewable energy workforce. The report highlights that hydropower and biofuels maintained their employment figures from 2021, each providing around 2.5 million jobs. Wind power followed closely behind with 1.4 million jobs.
Francesco La Camera, Director-General of IRENA, applauded the exceptional year for renewable energy jobs, even in the face of mounting challenges. He emphasized the need for accelerated investments in energy transition technologies to create millions more jobs and achieve the goals set by the G20 leaders to triple global renewables capacity by 2030.
Gilbert F. Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO, stressed the importance of inclusive policies to ensure full, productive, and freely chosen employment during these complex transitions. He called for specific measures that encompass sustainable enterprises, skills development, social protection, and other essential elements of decent work.
The report also underscores that the quality of jobs is as crucial as their quantity. To advance social justice, the transition to a cleaner energy future must be inclusive for all, with a focus on fair wages, occupational safety and health, and workers' rights. The ILO's Guidelines for a just transition towards environmentally sustainable economies and societies provide valuable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders.
Furthermore, the report advocates for workforce development and diversity, emphasizing the need to expand education and training while increasing career opportunities for youth, minorities, and marginalized groups. Gender equity is also a pressing concern, with solar technology leading the way with a 40 percent representation of women in the sector.
Many countries are now looking to localize supply chains and create jobs domestically, supported by appropriate industrial policies. China has notably championed these policies for some time, and other nations like the EU, India, Japan, South Africa, and the USA have recently initiated efforts to stimulate domestic manufacturing.
