2023 saw the highest ever growth in renewable energy jobs

In 2023, renewable energy employment surged to an all-time high, with global jobs in the sector growing by an impressive 18% over the previous year.

According to a report from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), the renewable energy sector expanded from 13.7 million jobs in 2022 to 16.2 million jobs in 2023. This unprecedented growth highlights the increasing global demand for sustainable energy sources and the vital role renewables play in the global economy.

Solar energy leads renewable job creation with 7.1 million positions worldwide, making it the largest employer in the sector. Notably, women hold 40% of these roles, showcasing solar power as a comparatively inclusive field within the renewable energy industry.

Meanwhile, liquid biofuels and hydropower follow closely, employing 2.8 million and 2.3 million workers, respectively. The wind power sector also made significant strides, with around 1.5 million people employed globally.

However, renewable energy jobs are not evenly distributed worldwide. China dominates the sector, holding nearly half of all renewable energy jobs at 7.3 million positions. The European Union follows with 1.8 million jobs, while Brazil employs approximately 1.56 million people in renewables.

The United States and India each have close to 1 million renewable energy jobs. This concentration highlights the influence of policy and investment in driving job growth within specific regions.

Watch the video to learn more about the growth in renewable energy jobs.