GLOBAL NEWS •
The report shows that an increasing number of countries are creating jobs in renewables . Almost two-thirds of all these jobs are in Asia . China alone accounts for 42 per cent of the global total , followed by the EU and Brazil with ten per cent each , and the USA and India with seven per cent each .
Women in renewables ILO director-general , Guy Ryder , said , “ Beyond the numbers , there is a growing focus on the quality of jobs and the conditions of work in renewable energies , to ensure decent and productive employment . The increasing share of female employment suggests that dedicated policies and training can significantly enhance the participation of women in renewable energy occupations , inclusion and ultimately , achieve a just transition for all . I encourage governments , workers ’ and employers ’ organisations to remain firmly committed to a sustainable energy transition , which is indispensable for the future of work .”
The report highlights some notable regional and national developments . These include Southeast Asian countries becoming major solar photovoltaic ( PV ) manufacturing hubs and biofuel producers . China is the pre-eminent manufacturer and installer of solar PV panels and is creating a growing number of jobs in offshore wind . India added more than 10 Gigawatts of solar PV , generating many installation jobs , but remains heavily dependent on imported panels .
Europe now accounts for about 40 per cent of the world ’ s wind manufacturing output and is the most important exporter of wind power equipment ; it is trying to reconstitute its solar PV manufacturing industry . Africa ’ s role is still limited , but the report points out that there are growing job opportunities in decentralised renewables , especially in support of local commerce , agriculture , and other economic activities .
In the Americas , Mexico is the leading supplier of wind turbine blades . Brazil remains the leading employer in biofuels but is also adding many jobs in wind and solar PV installations . The USA is beginning to build a domestic industrial base for the budding offshore wind sector .
The report highlights that the expansion of renewable energy needs to be supported with holistic policy packages , including training for workers to ensure jobs are decent , high quality , well paid and diverse in pursuit of a just transition . •
Go to our African Mining website to read Renewable Energy and Jobs : Annual Review 2022 . https :// www . irena . org / publications / 2022 / Sep / Renewable-Energy-and-Jobs-Annual- Review-2022
The increasing share of female employment suggests that dedicated policies and training can significantly enhance the participation of women in renewable energy occupations , inclusion and ultimately , achieve a just transition for all .
African Mining • January 2023 • 9