Renewable energies
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Assembling wind turbines at the Los Arcos Wind Farm (Málaga).
Renewable energies and employment worldwide
The European Union has set 2050 as the deadline to achieve climate neutrality, which involves eliminating net CO2 emissions. This decarbonisation target requires rapid development of renewable energies, leading us to wonder what impact these projects have on both direct and indirect employment.
According to the "Renewable Energy and Jobs Annual Review 2023" report by IRENA, the answer is clear: Renewable energies are not only redefining how we generate energy, but also creating millions of jobs worldwide.
The renewable energy sector employed 13.7 million people worldwide in 2022, a 1 million increase compared to 2021 and a notable growth from 7.3 million in 2012.
Given these figures, it is clear that renewable energy does not jeopardise employment. On the contrary, it drives it.
Solar energy leads in job creation in the global renewable energy sector. In 2022, this industry created 4.9 million jobs, representing over a third of total employment in the field of renewables.
Hydropower and biofuels maintained employment figures similar to 2021, with 2.5 million jobs each. They were followed by wind energy, which generated 1.4 million jobs. Let's look at the details:
Now that we understand the global situation connecting renewable energy to employment, what’s the scenario in Spain?
Renewable Energy and Employment in Spain
The expansion of clean energy in Spain impacts both energy generation and job creation, as well as economic development.
In 2023, the share of installed capacity made up of solar photovoltaic power increased by 28%, adding 5,594 MW and reaching a total of 25,549 MW. At the end of the year, we had over 125.6 GW of installed capacity, 61.3% of which was renewable.
In terms of renewable capacity, wind power leads with 24.5% of the total, followed by photovoltaic with 20.3%, and hydropower (13,6%), according to Red Eléctrica Española.
This growth in renewable energy has a positive impact on employment. As stated in the report from the Spanish State Public Employment Service (SEPE), clean energy creates five times more jobs than those generated by conventional sources.
Clean energy creates five times more jobs than those generated by conventional sources.
In 2022, renewables increased their contribution to the Spanish economy and job creation, accounting for over 1.65% of the national GDP and providing direct and indirect employment to over 130,000 workers, according to the Association of Renewable Energy Companies (APPA).
The technologies that contributed most to this growth were solar and self-consumption, which generated over 10,700 new jobs. Wind power also saw growth, with 4,793 new jobs created.
New professions linked to the energy transition
The rise of renewable energy has also led to the emergence of additional opportunities in the form of new professions. Some examples include:
- Renewable energy project technicians.
- Power grid specialists for wind farms.
- Photovoltaic system specialists.
- Design engineers.
- Energy supply contract experts.
- Developers.
- Experts in commissioning, the process for verifying project quality.
- Wind vibration specialists.
- Remote operators.
Additionally, power grid storage and digitisation are also generating new job opportunities. Profiles like smart grid design developers and energy storage technology integration specialists are in high demand.
The expansion of renewable infrastructure will require skilled workers, fostering the creation of new jobs and the development of skills in emerging fields.
Boosting Local Employment
Renewable energies not only generate employment at a global and national level, but also promote local job opportunities. One example is Endesa’s initiative to train local communities to work in renewable plants under construction.
Endesa's formula includes specific training programs, such as the Rural School of Sustainable Energy in the province of Teruel. This school offers specialised courses in the field of renewable energy, biodiversity, and the primary sector, preparing students to seize emerging opportunities in the region.
Endesa, in collaboration with the Juan XXIII Foundation, is also promoting inclusive green employment, aimed at people with disabilities. This approach fosters social inclusion, allowing more individuals to access job opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
In addition, Endesa's renewable energy plants have become sanctuaries for biodiversity. Projects for protecting species, beekeeping, agrivoltaics, and grazing not only protect the environment but also create quality jobs. These include specialised technical roles in environmental control, as well as scientists working with conservation organisations.
Renewables as an Opportunity to Establish Industry in Spain
Spain has excellent geographic and weather conditions for generating renewable energy. This represents a competitive advantage, as renewable energies are a way to attract industry.
According to IRENA renewable energy generation costs have decreased between 2010 and 2022. Solar photovoltaic power saw the largest reduction, with an 89% drop, followed by wind power with a 69% decrease and offshore wind power with a 59% reduction.
With cheaper renewable energy, companies can cut expenses, fostering competition and reducing market costs.
Producing clean, affordable energy will enable us to achieve energy independence and develop a competitive industry.
Renewable energies are transforming both the economy and employment in Spain. With continuous growth, these energies not only provide thousands of new jobs but also promote inclusion and protect the environment.
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