As the global renewable energy landscape undergoes transformative change, India’s solar photovoltaic (PV) employment numbers have surpassed several developed nations, according to a joint report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) released on Thursday.
China continues to lead globally, accounting for a staggering 56% of PV employment, translating to approximately 2.76 million jobs. While China’s dominance remains unchallenged, India’s rise in the sector is notable, with an estimated 281,400 solar jobs in 2022. Breaking down India’s numbers, on-grid solar contributed to 201,400 jobs, while off-grid settings generated an additional 80,600 jobs.
In comparison, the United States reported 264,000 PV jobs in 2022. Europe’s combined total stood at 540,000, with the European Union Member States contributing 517,000 of those jobs. Brazil also saw an upswing in solar employment, with numbers reaching 241,000, buoyed by increased solar PV installations.
Japan, on the other hand, witnessed a slowdown. With less capacity added in 2021 than the previous year, IRENA’s estimates for the Japanese PV workforce stood at 127,000.
India’s advancement in solar employment, surpassing many advanced nations, underscores the nation’s commitment to renewable energy and its potential as a global leader in sustainable practices.
