Green Energy Job Market Booming, Study Finds

Vivi Gorman
Posted on Wednesday 10th June 2009

If you’re inclined to make environmental consciousness your work, it may be a safe bet, according to a new study. From 1998 to 2007, the nation’s job sector related to clean energy grew more than twice as fast as overall job growth, a study released June 10 by The Pew Charitable Trusts says.

In the first-ever examination of its kind, Pew found that jobs in the clean energy economy grew at a national rate of 9.1 percent, while traditional jobs grew by only 3.7 percent from 1998 to 2007. The study is based on a carefully mapped, data-driven definition of the clean energy economy, with input from experts in clean energy. The study’s definition includes clean energy, energy efficiency, environmentally-friendly production, conservation and pollution mitigation, and training and support.

The research spanned all 50 states, looking at jobs, companies and venture capital investments involved in eco-friendly products and services.

The country’s clean energy economy has grown significantly, Pew says, and stands to grow even more in light of increasing consumer demand, investments and federal and state policy reforms. Lori Grange, interim deputy director of the Pew Center on the States, characterized the likely expansion as “explosive growth.” This is especially so given that states will be receiving federal funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for energy and transportation programs and numerous states have adopted pollution-reducing and energy conservation policies.

Pew found that the clean energy sector is providing well-paying jobs at various levels in each state. This is good news for those of all skill levels and educational backgrounds. Research green job training and explore the opportunities.

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