Solar is Rising
The new presidential term is upon is, no matter your political beliefs, you are at least aware that climate change is not a subject high on the new administration’s list of items to address. Despite the shift in American politics away from the climate change debate, the demand for clean, renewable energy continues to rise. In 2016, the amount of solar energy generated in the United States rose by 95% according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. This creates a bright outlook on the industry, not from a political standpoint, but from a purely economical one.
Economics drive industry. If something is profitable, it will be developed and see monetary investment that helps it to attain further profitability and growth. The solar industry has continued to steadily grow year over year, with 2016 being one of the best ones yet. What this means is that solar is a money maker. More than 14,000 megawatts of power generation were installed in 2016, nearly doubling the year before it. Solar accounts for 39% of new additions of any kind of electricity across the board. This growing industry creates new opportunities for job growth as the industry continues to expand.
While oil and gas do still remain king, solar is quickly catching up to them. In 2016, more than 260,000 people were employed in the solar industry. The jobs market in this field will continue to grow for those individuals who are willing to learn the skills necessary to succeed. New industries come with great new opportunity, and while solar is not quite to the point of displacing all traditional means of power generation, it is by far the fastest growing segment of that marketplace. Preparing to work in the solar energy industry by acquiring the right skill sets will prepare individuals for great careers in a growth field. GRN Chapel Hill will help you determine what the right skills are and help you find a position that is right for you. Contact us today to find out more about the opportunities in solar energy and the changing shape of power in the U.S.
