The renewable energy sector continues to experience significant growth, with the number of jobs reaching 13.7 million globally in 2022. This represents an increase of one million from the previous year, and an increase notable compared to the 7.3 million jobs recorded in 2012.
These encouraging figures come from the joint report of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the International Labor Organization (ILO), published on September 28, 2023. This report highlights the growing appeal of renewable energy for investments, which translates into job creation in a growing number of countries.
China remains the undisputed leader in terms of renewable energy jobs, accounting for 41% of the global total. However, other countries also stand out, including Brazil, the European Union, India and the United States. These countries have all contributed significantly to the growth of the renewable energy sector and the creation of jobs.
In terms of breakdown by technology, solar photovoltaic (PV) is once again positioned as the largest employer in the sector in 2022, with the creation of 4.9 million jobs. The other renewable sectors that provide the most jobs are biofuels and hydroelectricity, with 2.5 million jobs each, followed by wind power, solid biomass, solar thermal, biogas, heat pumps and geothermal energy.
The African continent has also recorded progress in the field of renewable energy, with the creation of 320,000 jobs. This represents 2.34% of all jobs in the sector globally. However, it is important to note that almost 22% of these jobs are concentrated in South Africa.
In conclusion, the renewable energy sector continues to gain importance and attractiveness, with a significant increase in the number of jobs created. Renewable energies are positioning themselves not only as an ecological alternative, but also as a major economic driver, offering new employment opportunities in many countries around the world.