Massachusetts clean energy jobs increased by 80% since 2010

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) published its “2023 Massachusetts Clean Energy Industry Report,” which highlights the state’s clean energy industry growth, being home to over 108,000 direct clean energy workers. The state’s clean energy industry has grown 80% since 2010, or approximately 48,176 jobs.

The industry contributed more than $14 billion to the gross state product (GSP) in 2022, a 63% increase since 2012. It also shows that 7,315 clean energy businesses exist across the state. In terms of direct jobs, the clean energy industry is on par with both the higher education and restaurant industries in Massachusetts yet exceeds both industries’ economic contribution to indirect and induced jobs and GSP. The report indicates clean energy employers were estimating to hire roughly 5,900 additional employees in 2023.

“The solutions to the world’s climate crisis are being built in Massachusetts,” said Rebecca Tepper, secretary of energy and environmental affair. “Offshore wind, solar, storage and the many other companies that support renewable energy are helping Massachusetts become energy independent. And with that comes thousands of lucrative jobs and fulfilling career paths for our residents.”

MassCEC’s 2023 report also found that 58% of clean energy firms are small businesses (10 or fewer workers). Seventy-one percent of clean energy workers are employed in energy efficiency, demand management and clean heating and cooling jobs.

“The clean energy industry is thriving in Massachusetts and it’s important that we continue that growth,” said Governor Maura Healey. “This is a rapidly evolving industry with many states competing for companies through tax credits and state investment. The Mass Leads Act will help us keep our competitive edge and lengthen our lead in the clean energy and climatetech industries.”

“This report shows that the clean energy industry has roots in every corner of our state, from North Adams to New Bedford,” said
Lieutenant Governor Driscoll. “Regional equity is central to our plans for economic development. We want to see companies big and small set up shop across the state and know they have a stake in developing solutions to climate change.”

This report also includes data from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center’s Workforce Needs Assessment that projected that Massachusetts needs to add about 38,000 more clean energy workers to meet its 2030 climate goals. Of those additional jobs, 82% are projected to be middle- to high-wage jobs with a median hourly wage of $36.58 (based on today’s dollar value).

“This year’s industry report confirms what we’re seeing on the ground in communities across Massachusetts – the clean energy industry is vibrant and thriving,” said Emily Reichert, CEO of MassCEC. “These findings will inspire the work we have ahead as we strive to make Massachusetts the climate innovation lab for the world, create tens of thousands of good paying jobs, and achieve our climate goals for 2030 and beyond.”

News item from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center