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As our region's economy diversifies and (perhaps eventually) expands, there is encouraging news from the nonpartisan Environmental Entrepreneurs, which advocates for clean energy. According to its data, the 210 major energy projects announced since the Inflation Reduction Act took effect will create approximately 403,000 jobs. The biggest gains are expected in electric vehicles, battery storage and solar energy.
"We're in the biggest economic revolution we've seen in generations thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act and other clean energy policies," said E2 executive director Bob Keefe.
It's easy to understand why Keefe and his colleagues are interested in talking up the potential for the industry. But even if we temper the enthusiasm a bit there is surely a change coming in the employment landscape.
That's why it is important for public officials and educators to remember the advice of Joseph Kane, a researcher at the Brookings Institution nonprofit research organization.
Kane said state and local leaders who receive funding for clean energy will have to be increasingly attentive to workforce development because some people aren't aware of these job opportunities or don't have access to relevant training. It is hard to wrap one's mind around the idea of a labor shortage in an industry that is not yet in full swing, but Kane is right.
We know there will be permitting hurdles, possible supply chain issues with some minerals, and rapidly evolving geopolitical concerns, too. Let's not add to the list by failing to educate, train and recruit a workforce that can get the job done.