Renewable Sector Supporting Over 100,000 Jobs

Massive levels of investment into the green energy sector in the last few years have enabled the industry to sustain an ever-growing workforce that now tops 100,000. According to a report published jointly by the REA, Innovas and PwC, almost £30 billion has been invested into the sector since 2010. By 2013, this was enabling a £14 billion turnover and a 4.2% contribution to the UK generation mix.

Entitled ‘REview – Renewable Energy Review: 2014’, the 116 page report is the most comprehensive assessment of the UK’s green energy industry released to date. It features analysis on the growth of renewable technologies in the generation mix, information about jobs and turnover in the sector and investment levels into renewable energy projects.

Commenting on the report, REA Chief Executive Dr Nina Skorupska described it as documenting the industry’s overall ‘success story’ and the ‘close relationship between clear, stable policies and sustained growth and jobs.’

Key statistics within the report include:

  • Year on year, renewable energy generation has increased by an average of 20.3% between 2009 and 2013.
  • If Government policy continues to support the sector, it’s likely that the UK can meet its target of achieving 30% of renewable electricity generation by 2020.
  • 103,000 people worked in the sector in the 2012/13 financial year.
  • Between 2010 and 2013, £29.8 billion was invested in UK renewables.
  • Offshore wind is the most invested-in technology, whilst solar power went from nothing to £2 billion in 2010.
  • PwC expects £40.8 billion of investment into green electricity between 2014 and 2020.

Wilding says: Whilst it’s great to see documented evidence that the renewables sector is going from strength to strength, the report also acts as a warning as the industry’s remarkable growth could be jeopardised by uncertainties over energy policy going forward. It’s more important than ever for Ministers to heed Dr Skorupska’s words about the relationship between clear Government policies and success for this industry.’

Source: Click Green