As our region’s economy diversifies and expands, there is encouraging news from the bipartisan environmental leaders championing clean energy. According to their data, the 210 major energy projects announced since the Inflation Reduction Act took effect will create about 403,000 jobs. The largest increases are expected in electric vehicles, battery storage and solar energy.
“Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act and other clean energy policies, we are in the midst of the greatest economic revolution we have seen in generations,” said E2 CEO Bob Keefe.
It’s easy to see why Keefe and his colleagues are interested in addressing the industry’s potential. But even if we curb our enthusiasm a little, a change in the employment landscape is certain to come.
That’s why it’s important for officials and educators to remember the advice of Joseph Kane, a researcher at the nonprofit research organization Brookings Institution.
Kane said state and local leaders receiving clean energy funding must increasingly pay attention to workforce development. It’s hard to wrap your head around the idea of a labor shortage in an industry that isn’t yet in full swing, but Kane is right.
We know there will be approval hurdles, potential supply chain issues for some minerals and rapidly evolving geopolitical concerns. We should not add to the list by failing to educate, train and recruit workers who can do their jobs, especially now with many developments coming to our region. Let’s be prepared.
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