New York State’s clean energy sector reached a significant milestone at the end of 2023, employing a record 178,000 workers, according to the 2024 New York Clean Energy Industry Report. Adding 7,700 jobs in a single year underscores the state’s commitment to transitioning toward a sustainable future. With clean energy job growth outpacing the overall state economy and mirroring national trends, the report offers an optimistic outlook on New York’s clean energy landscape. However, sustaining this growth will require careful planning, equitable policies, and a resilient workforce strategy.
The 2024 report highlights a 5% growth in clean energy jobs from 2022 to 2023—more than double the statewide economic growth rate. Sectors such as clean transportation and EV infrastructure experienced double-digit growth. Electric vehicle charging jobs, for instance, surged by 27%, a clear indicator of the rapid expansion of this critical segment. Meanwhile, building decarbonization and energy efficiency remained the largest job contributors, adding nearly 4,000 positions and employing more than half of all clean energy workers in the state.
This momentum isn’t just numerical—it’s tangible. Nearly one-third of these jobs are in disadvantaged communities, showcasing efforts to balance economic growth with social equity. Moreover, 93% of clean energy workers report receiving healthcare benefits, and clean energy careers pay significantly higher than equivalent roles in other sectors.
Governor Kathy Hochul lauded these achievements, emphasizing that “a thriving clean energy economy creates opportunities for all.” The state’s $180 million workforce development initiatives reflect its dual focus on economic growth and environmental responsibility. Programs targeting underserved populations, veterans, and individuals transitioning from other industries demonstrate a commitment to an equitable green economy.
Strategic partnerships with unions, colleges, and non-profits are equipping New Yorkers with the skills to meet the demands of this evolving industry. NYSERDA’s efforts to integrate K-12 education into workforce development pipelines hint at a long-term vision to prepare the next generation of clean energy professionals.
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Learn MoreDespite the glowing numbers, challenges persist. The clean energy transition requires sustained investment in infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, where access to job opportunities and training resources may be limited. Workforce training must evolve in tandem with rapidly advancing technologies, and the state must address the disparity in job growth across sectors. For instance, while electric power generation grew at 6%, grid modernization and energy storage saw only 7% growth, indicating uneven progress.
Moreover, the sector’s reliance on federal funding, such as the $1.5 million for EV infrastructure training, raises questions about long-term financial sustainability. Vigilant oversight will also be required to ensure that job growth translates into permanent, high-quality positions.
As the state continues its ambitious journey toward a zero-emissions grid by 2050, the focus must remain on creating resilient systems that adapt to market fluctuations, technological advancements, and the needs of an evolving workforce.
The state’s clean energy sector is not just an economic engine—it’s a cornerstone of climate action and social equity.
