NYSERDA has released its Clean Energy Industry Report, showing clean-energy jobs now employ 146,000 New Yorkers across the state, and that clean-energy jobs are growing at a rate of more than two-times the state average (with a growth rate of 3.4% from December 2015 to December 2016).
Job growth is projected to continue its rapid expansion, with the report projecting growth to double again to 7% by year end.
“As a direct result of Governor Cuomo’s leadership in embracing nation-leading clean energy policies, clean-energy companies throughout New York are creating thousands of jobs and growing our economy faster than ever before,” said Alicia Barton, President and CEO of NYSERDA.
“New York is proving that leading in the fight on climate change is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create an entirely new home-grown industry, and the 2017 New York Clean Energy Industry Report released by NYSERDA is further evidence that New York is capitalizing on this moment of opportunity,” added Barton.
The Clean Energy Industry Report tracks and analyzes data on clean energy jobs, geographic distribution, and employer needs to produce useful insights for New York as it seeks to achieve climate goals, create jobs, and economic opportunity across the State. The newly reported numbers reflect the state’s progress in transitioning to a clean energy economy with workforce creation under the Governor’s climate change initiatives.
“The Sierra Club applauds Governor Cuomo’s commitment to build New York into an economic renewable energy powerhouse. New York’s continued leadership demonstrates to the nation that fighting climate change is compatible with spurring economic development and creating family wage jobs in the transition to 100% clean energy for all,” said Lisa Dix, New York Senior Representative for the Sierra Club.
Mario Cilento, President of the New York State AFL-CIO said, “We commend Governor Cuomo for his bold proactive approach in ensuring New York State once again leads the way in transitioning to new energy sources and to a new economy. The labor movement is proud to be at the forefront of a better and brighter tomorrow both in terms of the environment and the creation of long-term quality union jobs to help build up the middle class.”
Further details of the report can be found here.
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