Vermont's clean energy industry employs 15,286 workers at 2,684 locations and has seen job growth of 3.4% in the last 12 months, according to a new report released by Gov. Peter Shumlin, D-Vt. Overall, the report says the industry accounts for approximately 4.3% of the state's workforce.
Joined by Public Service Department Commissioner Christopher Recchia, the governor released the 2014 Vermont Clean Energy Industry Report on June 23 when kicking off a "Solar Summer Tour" throughout the state.
"This report confirms what I've believed for a long time – that the clean energy industry in Vermont is vibrant and vital to our economy and presents a tremendous opportunity for good-paying jobs for Vermonters as we solve our energy challenges to get off of fossil fuels," said Gov. Shumlin.
The report's focus areas include renewable energy, energy efficiency, clean transportation, and greenhouse gas management and accounting, among other clean energy sectors.
Renewable energy accounts for about 4,500 jobs – representing 30% of the state's total clean energy workforce. Solar leads with 1,551 workers, with biomass energy employing 1,384 workers and wind power employing 304 workers. In addition, the report says there are 1,307 "other" renewable energy employees.
"Vermont's clean energy industry has developed into an important part of our economy," said Commissioner Recchia. "Developing more clean energy jobs and expanding markets for Vermont's energy entrepreneurs will serve us well in both improving our economy and helping us meet our goal of obtaining 90 percent of our energy from renewable sources by 2050."
According to the report, 1,832 clean energy jobs are expected to be added in the state over the next 12 months, representing a projected growth rate of 12%.
