As Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump gear up for their first debate, the focus is on their plans for handling various issues such as the economy, inflation, and job growth. One critical sector facing uncertainty post-election is clean energy. While the Biden administration has boosted clean energy, Trump’s approach has been more skeptical. The growth in job opportunities in clean energy has been significant in recent years, particularly due to funding from acts like the Inflation Reduction Act and the Chips and Science Act. These measures have resulted in a rise of 142,000 jobs related to clean energy last year, representing more than half of new jobs in the energy sector. The growth has been more than double compared to the rest of the energy sector and the overall U.S. economy.
The implementation of the IRA and the CHIPS and Science Act has provided increased certainty for jobs in energy efficiency, renewables, and climate resilience. According to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute, the IRA is anticipated to generate over 300,000 jobs annually for new energy project construction and about 100,000 permanent jobs per year. Despite the uncertainty post-election, industry experts emphasize that the future of energy production and consumption is continually evolving. Daniel Bresette, president of EESI, highlights that energy systems have been transitioning for decades, emphasizing that change is always constant in this industry.
Ameresco, a company specializing in clean tech and renewable energy projects, is continuing with its hiring plans regardless of the election results. The company is looking at increasing its workforce by 300 employees in the U.S and Europe this year, encompassing various roles from engineers to project managers. Ameresco’s focus on providing efficient energy solutions for a wide range of clients, combined with the need for secure, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy sources, underlines the importance of clean energy regardless of the political landscape.
Ameresco’s proactive approach to recruiting Gen Z individuals to fill clean energy roles has proven successful with recent college graduates showing interest in climate-friendly opportunities. The company’s emphasis on tuition reimbursement and mentorship programs has attracted young talent like Caroline Leilani Stevenson, an associate electrical engineer, who have returned to work on meaningful projects post-internship.
As Harris and Trump prepare to debate their policies, there is a lack of clarity on their comprehensive plans for energy and climate change. While Harris has been involved in passing key acts like the IRA, Trump’s focus has been on making energy more affordable through increased drilling in the U.S. The Green New Deal has been a pivotal idea showcasing the need for sustainable energy practices, yet there is ambiguity in the strategies proposed by the candidates. However, there is a consensus among industry analysts that the demand for energy will continue to rise significantly, regardless of the election’s outcome.
The upcoming debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump holds significant importance for the clean energy sector. While the current administration has taken steps to boost clean energy, the sector continues to face challenges post-election. The future of energy production and job growth in clean energy will depend on the policies put forth by the presidential nominees and their vision for addressing climate change and sustainability. As the industry evolves, it is imperative for stakeholders to closely monitor the candidates’ plans to ensure a sustainable and secure energy future for the nation.