The Treasure Valley saw more than 80 new jobs in the state’s growing solar industry last year, according to a report released today by The Solar Foundation. The state of Idaho experienced a 60 percent increase, adding over 200 solar jobs.
The Boise’s metropolitan area is now home to 289 solar jobs, an increase of 43 percent from 2015 figures. The findings highlight the enormous jobs potential for a transition to 100 percent clean and renewable energy in Boise, as well as the opportunity for Mayor David Bieter to be a leader on creating more family-sustaining, good jobs in a growing industry across the region.
25 U.S. cities have now committed to transition entirely to clean and renewable energy between 2030 and 2035. Cities including major metropolises like San Diego and Salt Lake City, and smaller towns like Georgetown, Texas and Abita Springs, Louisiana, are among the places that have made the commitment.
“Solar jobs are on the rise and clean energy is putting people to work here in our city. We can and must go further in creating more opportunity and expanding prosperity for Boise residents by doubling down on clean and renewable energy like solar. Now is the time for action and for Mayor David Bieter to stand on the side of more Boise jobs by supporting the goal of 100 percent clean energy,” said Casey Mattoon, Conservation Program Manager at the Idaho Chapter Sierra Club.
“While the Trump Administration turns its back on fighting pollution from fossil fuels, we can step up by protecting our communities’ health and boosting our economy here in Boise. Transitioning to clean energy like solar will create good-paying jobs and drive economic growth that benefits all Idahoans. With more jobs being created in the growing solar industry today, now is the time for Idaho communities to go all-in on clean energy for our cities,” said Michael Heckler, retired clean energy developer.
Solar jobs listed in the report include both installation and construction jobs and non-installation jobs, including manufacturing, sales and distribution, project development, and other occupations that support the solar industry.
“State-by-state and city-by-city, our nation is moving away from pollution fossil fuels toward an economy where solar is powering our homes and putting people to work. As we transition towards more clean energy, we must ensure that the benefits of a new 100 percent clean energy economy are equitably shared and that the jobs and opportunities created by clean energy provide living wages, healthcare benefits, and union representation for workers,” said Reverend Robert Spencer, Ready for 100 Committee Chair.
In February, The Solar Foundation released its 2016 National Solar Jobs Census, which found that the U.S. solar industry employed 260,077 workers. This figure includes the addition of over 51,000 solar workers over the previous year, representing a 25 percent growth in employment from 2015. Over the next 12 months, employers surveyed expect to see total solar industry employment increase by 10 percent to 286,335 solar workers.
Casey Mattoon, Conservation Program Manager
