The solar industry is rapidly growing. In 2023, the U.S. solar market installed 32.4 gigawatts-direct current (GWdc) of capacity — a 51% increase from 2022, marking the industry’s biggest year to date, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).

With that growth comes incredible opportunities to build a career in renewable energy. Green jobs are exploding, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projecting employment of solar photovoltaic (PV) installers to grow 22 percent through 2032, much faster than other occupations. On average, about 3,500 openings for solar photovoltaic installers are projected each year, the BLS estimates.

What do solar PV installers do? As a solar installer, you’ll be responsible for assembling, installing and maintaining ground mounts, solar array grids or other systems that convert sunlight into energy.

What’s driving the exponential growth in renewable energy construction? The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Signed into law in 2022, the IRA’s goal is to lower the nation’s carbon emissions by 2030. To achieve that goal, the U.S. government is allocating nearly $400 billion in federal funding for clean energy — it’s largest investment in clean energy and climate action in history.

But to reach that goal, renewable energy construction professionals — from solar technicians and commercial solar installers to electricians and construction managers — are needed.

7 Reasons Why You Should Consider a Career in Solar Energy

Whether you’re new to the workforce or considering a career change, here are seven reasons why a career in solar is worth considering:

1. Solar installer jobs are booming. The BLS isn’t the only government entity that is projecting substantial employment growth for the solar industry. Solar employment could swell to 1.5 million jobs by 2035, according to the Solar Futures Study released by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Energy Technologies Office. RenewableWorks, which provides renewable energy construction services for community, commercial and utility-scale solar projects, is always hiring solar professionals.
2. Solar PV installers enjoy competitive pay. As of May 2023, the average annual salary for solar photovoltaic installers was $48,000, the BLS reports. With experience and additional certifications, you can boost your earning power by obtaining even higher-paying solar positions.
3. On-the-job solar panel installation training. To position yourself for a sustainable career in renewable energy construction, you need to know what it takes to assemble, install and maintain solar systems. The ideal way to receive solar panel installation training is through an apprenticeship. RenewableWorks’ apprenticeship program gives you virtual and on-the-job training and the opportunity to work with professionals from some the largest renewable energy companies in the nation.
4. Green jobs have meaning. Professionals who fill solar panel installer jobs lead the charge toward a sustainable energy future for our country. By harnessing the sun’s power, you help produce clean, renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and our dependence on fossil fuels. Knowing your work as one of the nation’s utility-scale, community and commercial solar installers contributes to a healthier planet leads to a fulfilling career.
5. Green jobs are inclusive. From women to minorities to veterans, all are welcome in renewable energy construction. From 2015 to 2022, the female workforce in the solar industry increased by 62% according to the SEIA. During that same period, the SEIA reports, Hispanic or Latino employment jumped 141%; employment of Black workers increased 114%; Asian workers grew by 33%; and employment growth for veterans in solar was 19%;.
6. Young solar panel installers are welcome. The SEIA also reports that the solar industry is attracting a younger workforce with 18- to 29-year-olds making up nearly one-third of the solar workforce in 2022 — a much higher percentage than the overall workforce. According to the Pew Research Center, the climate is a top priority for 67% of Gen Z workers and a LinkedIn survey shows that 87% of Gen Z professionals want to work for companies that support their values.
7. No college degree is required. If you have a high school diploma or GED, you have what you need to enter the solar industry. According to the SEIA, more than half of all new solar jobs in 2022 did not require a bachelor’s degree. Through an apprenticeship, like the apprentice program at RenewableWorks, you’ll get the education you need to land solar panel installer jobs, launch a rewarding career and begin building your future without going to college first.

At RenewableWorks, we’re dedicated to cultivating future leaders in renewable energy construction. We’re proud of our solar installers and other solar professionals who help us provide expert solar construction services for utility-scale, community and commercial projects. Our team of professionals has installed over 23 GW of new solar across the U.S. in the last decade, and we are committed to propelling the industry forward for years to come. If you’re ready to start a solar career, we’d love to have you on our team!

Find a Rewarding Solar Career with RenewableWorks

Choosing the right company to start or advance your solar energy career is crucial. When you join RenewableWorks, you’ll be part of a company that prides itself on innovation and excellence in renewable energy construction. If you’re passionate about the environment and want your work to have meaning, explore career opportunities with RenewableWorks today.