Renewable energy jobs can surge

CALGARY — Ramping up investment in Alberta’s renewable energy and energy efficiency sectors will create more than enough job opportunities to absorb workers from the coal generation industry into Alberta’s economy.

A new report from the Pembina Institute predicts that if properly supported now, the province’s transition to a sustainable electricity grid will create net job growth even as coal-fired power plants shut down. With increasing anxiety in North America around job security, this report offers solid numbers to show new renewable energy jobs have the potential to contribute significantly to the economy.

Job growth in clean energy; Employment in Alberta’s emerging renewables and energy efficiency sectors, has the support of the Alberta Federation of Labour and Blue Green Canada.

Quick facts

Alberta’s goal to generate 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 translates to at least 5,000 MW of new renewable capacity.
The government has budgeted $3.4 billion for large-scale renewable energy projects, bioenergy and technology, $2.2 billion for green infrastructure, $645 million for energy efficiency initiatives and $195 million to assist communities in transition.

Quotes

“This report clearly shows the job creating potential in the renewable electricity industry… Taking climate change seriously, strengthening the economy and providing jobs are all possible.”
— Gil McGowan, President, Alberta Federation of Labour

“Planning a fair transition for workers from carbon intensive industries into opportunities building renewable power, increasing energy efficiency, and strengthening key infrastructure is a win-win for Albertans that will help diversify the economy and make for a healthier environment.”

— Jamie Kirkpatrick, Program Manager, Blue Green Canada

“The benefits of clean energy to Albertans' health and the environment have long been established. But this report shows that there is also a net employment benefit if we follow through on our commitment to substantially enable renewables and energy efficiency.”

— Binnu Jeyakumar, Report Author, Consulting Advisor, Pembina Institute

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Visit the Pembina Institute’s website to download a copy of Job growth in clean energy.