Resurgent Clean Energy economy shows path forward to raise wages, reduce emissions, and revitalize communities.
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania– Pennsylvania’s clean energy economy is growing rapidly across the Commonwealth–revitalizing its job market and boosting it into a position of national leadership, according to a comprehensive analysis of employment data released today by the national, nonpartisan business group E2 (Environmental Entrepreneurs) and Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance (KEEA), Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia, Sustainable Pittsburgh, and Pennsylvania Solar Center. In the wake of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro putting forth his first proposed budget last week, which proves positive for Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), the state is primed for even more opportunity for growth in this sector.
Growing by over 30 percent since the height of the COVID-19 economic crisis in 2020–clean energy jobs in Pennsylvania have proved their resilience. With one of the fastest growing clean energy sectors in the nation, Pennsylvania became one of the top ten of states with the most clean energy jobs in 2021 and is poised to have national influence on economic growth and combating climate change.
As Pennsylvania’s clean energy transition continues to ramp up, employment data shows that the commonwealth’s clean energy economy is lifting up small businesses and reflects the diversity of the commonwealth. Over 66 percent of clean energy jobs are created by small businesses across Pennsylvania, and people of color make up over 26 percent of the clean energy workforce despite representing 20 percent of the population. Furthermore, over 60% of clean energy jobs are outside of Pennsylvania’s major cities, clearly demonstrating how the clean economy can bring benefit to workers across the commonwealth. Increased investment in the clean energy sector can support the continued trajectory of this job market lifting up Pennsylvania’s communities.
The following is a statement from Jeaneen Zappa, Executive Director of the Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance: “This report shows the market has spoken. Pennsylvania’s clean energy economy is growing rapidly across sectors. To increase momentum and benefits for Pennsylvania’s residents and economy we need the right workforce. The clean energy economy offers something for everyone, from entry-level, to skilled trades, to positions that require advanced degrees. Developing our workforce to meet these needs will help Pennsylvania realize its full potential.”
The following is a statement from Steve Luxton, CEO and Executive Director of the Philadelphia based Energy Coordinating Agency: “This impressive report confirms ECA’s mission-driven work over the past several decades. Seeing for ourselves the proverbial proof-in-the-pudding makes ECA proud to be a leader in Pennsylvania’s Clean Energy economy. Since 1984, we have committed to decreasing energy burden for limited income households, training and certifying workers in the industry, and placing those individuals in living wage careers–and we will continue to push toward a more equitable and accessible clean energy economy in years to come.”
The following is a statement from Uchenna Bright, E2 Northeast Advocate: “These numbers highlight the momentum behind the transition, and its potential to uplift communities across the commonwealth. The Shapiro administration has a once in a generation opportunity to seize the moment and implement policy that betters the lives of families today, and in the future. We look forward to working with the Governor and Legislature to realize these opportunities and move Pennsylvania into a sustainable, more prosperous future.”
See full report here: Clean Jobs-Pennsylvania 2022.pdf
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Environmental Entrepreneurs (E2) is a national, nonpartisan group of business leaders, investors, and professionals from every sector of the economy who advocate for smart policies that are good for the economy and good for the environment. Our members have founded or funded more than 2,500 companies, created more than 600,000 jobs, and manage more than $100 billion in venture and private equity capital. For more information, see www.e2.org or follow us on Twitter at @e2org.