The world isn’t just talking about renewable energy anymore; businesses are putting serious money behind it. Are you wondering how the global investment trend in renewable energy sources like solar and wind is shaping? The answer is similar and positive: it’s booming.
Companies, governments, and investors are betting billions on a clean energy future.
For entry-level jobseekers, that’s big news.
Solar panels, wind farms, and new tech are all creating jobs fast. This also is linked to a growing demand for skilled workers who are ready to power the future.
Let’s examine whether it may be the perfect time for you to step into the industry.
Why Solar and Wind Are Winning the Race
Renewable energy, specifically solar and wind power, has reached record-breaking investment numbers. This is in part thanks to the global investment in renewable energy that topped $1.7 trillion in 2023, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Of that investment, solar energy accounted for half of all global electricity, demonstrating how the falling costs of solar technology have transformed the world’s perception of solar power.
In the last decade, price, government support, and renewable energy targets have helped to make solar the face of affordable renewable energy.
- The price of solar panels has dropped by over 80%, making it one of the most affordable options for both residential and commercial customers.
- Subsidies, tax incentives, and homeowner grants have further reduced the price of solar panels and lowered the cost of installations.
- Renewable energy targets have been another reason for consumers to switch to renewable energy, as they aim to make a positive impact on the environment and contribute to their country meeting its sustainability goals.
What This Means for Entry-Level Job Seekers
It’s easy to see that this surge in investment is good for investors and consumers, but it’s also creating a wave of opportunity for new workers, too. The more vacant jobs that need people to fill, the greater the chance you can find a great career fit.
You may be trying to break into the renewable energy industry straight out of school or looking to change careers after gaining experience elsewhere.
Either way, with solar and wind projects appearing across the country, companies are identifying a need for a growing workforce to keep up with demand.
Many of these jobs are desirable because they are:
- Entry-level but still with good starting salaries
- Highly accessible
- Hands-on positions
- Requiring a relatively short amount of experience
Positions like solar panel installer, wind turbine technician, and field service technician are seeing double-digit growth rates. These positions are often considered entry-level with good starting salaries and high job satisfaction.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, wind turbine technician is projected to be one of the fastest-growing occupations through 2032, with job openings in both rural and urban areas.
In response to this surge in job opportunities, more colleges are offering one- or two-year degrees that specialize in the installation and repair of wind turbines. They offer on-the-job training or internships and make it that much easier to make the necessary connections right out of school.
Beyond fieldwork, investment growth is fueling opportunities in manufacturing, supply chain logistics, project support, and customer service. Companies need people to help build, transport, sell, and maintain renewable energy systems.
This could help to open a door for you if you have skills ranging from welding to marketing. You don’t have to be an engineer to find a place in renewable energy.
Some of the jobs offered require formal education, but many employers are offering paid training programs or certifications, making it easier to jump into a renewable energy career without massive upfront costs or student loans.
If you’re eager to learn, ready to work, and passionate about a sustainable future, there’s likely a role waiting for you.
Where the Renewable Energy Jobs Are Taking Off
Jobs in clean energy are growing across the United States, but some states are experiencing even greater growth than others. This is due in part to strong investments, abundant natural resources, and favorable policies that can affect a state.
If you’re an entry-level job seeker, these states or regions can offer a wealth of opportunities in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind.
California
California leads the way with approximately 550,000 clean energy jobs as of 2024. The state has an aggressive climate policy and is leading the way with investment in solar and wind infrastructure.
Top jobs: Solar panel installers, energy auditors, project coordinators
Texas
With roughly 270,000 clean energy jobs, Texas is in second place thanks to supportive policies and vast landscapes that allow it to be a hotspot for wind energy. Recent investments have enabled the establishment of 1,800 jobs at a new solar manufacturing facility.
Top jobs: Wind turbine technicians, solar installers, site managers
Florida
Making great strides, Florida saw a 15% growth in solar jobs, adding nearly 2,000 positions. The state’s sunny climate and expanding solar initiatives are driving this trend.
Top jobs: Residential solar sales, customer support, equipment technicians
New York
With its close proximity to water but limited available land space for onshore activities, New York is investing heavily in offshore wind projects, such as the Empire Wind Project. It’s expected to create over 1,000 jobs once it’s operational.
Top jobs: Offshore wind project managers, marine engineers, construction crews
Iowa
Iowa leads the nation in wind energy production, with almost 60% of its power coming from wind as of 2023. This has resulted in a robust job market for wind turbine technicians and related roles.
Top jobs: Wind farm maintenance crews, electricians, logistics support.
Whether you’re interested in hands-on fieldwork or administrative support roles, these states can offer you a starting point for finding renewable energy jobs with ample room for growth.
However, with investment flooding into the sectors creating job opportunities across the country, where is the renewable energy industry headed next? How can you prepare for the future in solar or wind energy?
What’s Next for Renewable Energy Growth?
The future of renewable energy is strong. According to the IEA, global investment in renewable energy is projected to reach $2 trillion annually by 2030, nearly double the 2022 level.
Solar and wind are leading the charge, with solar power alone expected to account for over half of new electricity generation capacity worldwide by the end of this decade.
Newer technologies, like offshore wind farms, grid-scale battery storage, and green hydrogen production, are also receiving a surge in funding.
The U.S. Department of Energy launched an $8 billion program in 2023 to develop regional clean hydrogen hubs, aiming to create thousands of jobs in emerging energy sectors. These areas offer entry-level workers a chance to specialize in a field poised for rapid expansion early.
Then, there’s legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) acting as a major driver behind the growth. It includes $369 billion in climate and clean energy investments, making it the largest of this type of investment in U.S. history.
The IRA could create over 9 million new jobs in clean energy and infrastructure over the next decade. Job seekers, this means sustained hiring across manufacturing, construction, maintenance, and tech support roles tied directly to renewable energy.
Areas Likely to See Growth
- Solar panel and wind turbine manufacturing
- Battery storage installation and maintenance
- Offshore wind farm construction
- Green hydrogen production facilities
- Smart grid technology development
Conclusion
The future is renewable and clean energy sectors like solar and wind are not only the main drivers, but they are also leading to an increase in job availability.
With record-breaking funding, strong government support for renewable energy, and groundbreaking technologies, solar and wind energy are primed for explosive growth over the next decade.
For job seekers, this should be more than just a headline. It’s career opportunities.
Entry-level roles in solar, wind, battery storage, and emerging technologies are opening up every day, offering stable, future-focused jobs that don’t always require years of experience or advanced degrees.
Whether you’re looking to work outdoors installing turbines or prefer to support projects behind the scenes, there’s a place for you in the clean energy industry.
The global investment trend is aimed up, rather than down, and allowing you to position yourself at the forefront and search for a job in a booming industry. Renewable energy isn’t just building a better future for the planet; it’s also building a better future for you, too.
