You have likely heard of organizations worldwide working to reduce their carbon emissions. There is a two-pronged reason for this: climate change and inflation. The Department of Energy has established that the average American household uses 30% more energy than is required due to inefficient systems in the home, which is an average of $60/month per home in unnecessary utility bills. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the United States contains about 4% of the world’s population. Yet, we consume about 16% of the world’s energy. This issue affects everyone regardless of belief in these topics, political affiliation, race, religion, or creed. The energy-efficiency industry, which has been around for decades, has more recently been tasked to help reduce carbon emissions and help homes and businesses save on ever-rising energy costs that come with inefficient systems and installations. However, it is extremely understaffed. Individuals choosing a career in this sector will contribute to a more sustainable and economically sound future for everyone using the U.S.’s energy sources. It is in everyone’s best interest to find willing workers to staff these essential jobs and that they are welcomed from all backgrounds, vocations, and classes to assist in this important mission.

Energy Efficiency Jobs in America

According to a report by the Building Performance Association, the energy efficiency industry has nearly 2.3 million workers in energy efficiency. To put that into perspective, two of every five jobs in the U.S. energy sector are specifically in the energy efficiency industry. Another key fact according to BPA is that energy efficiency employs 2.1 times as many workers in the U.S. as the entire fossil fuel industry.

This industry is not just about saving energy and money but also about creating jobs.

With climate change and high inflation among many Americans’ concerns, federal investments have been made in recent years to help fund “solutions” to tackle inefficient energy use. The Department of Energy reports that buildings account for 40% of the total energy use in the United States. Given these pressing issues, the need for workers in the energy efficiency industry is not just important, it’s urgent. We need workers ASAP. SOS! The energy efficiency industry offers significant job opportunities. With the right skills and training, many individuals could be part of this growing field, making a crucial difference in our collective future.

Workforce Development

There is such a significant demand for workers that many organizations hold free or low-cost training programs to help individuals get industry-recognized credentials to join the workforce and help tackle the problem in an accelerated timeline. Many of these organizations are responding to the need for a better-trained workforce. The Department of Energy’s Better Building Initiative states that although the main hiring challenge cited by employers was competition and a small applicant pool, insufficient skills and qualifications and lack of experience were also top responses.

Because of this, there are many opportunities to find a track of reputable training programs that can assist with the lack of skilled workers. In addition to employer demand for well-trained, efficient workers, there is a significant enough consumer demand to have involved state and federal funding opportunities for workforce development.

Although the term “workforce development” includes helping individuals new to the industry enter the business and start a fulfilling career, it also means “upskilling” individuals in the industry so that they can take their current jobs to the next level.

Energy Efficiency is not Just About Climate Change

Presenting these facts is an attempt to show readers that energy efficiency is about more than just climate change. According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, “Energy efficiency [also helps] create jobs in multiple ways. Efficiency workers make, sell, and install efficient products (such as ENERGY STAR® appliances), build well-insulated buildings, and offer energy-saving services like weatherization. In addition, efficiency creates supporting jobs, such as those in the supply chains that provide parts and materials for efficient products. Lastly, efficiency supports other jobs by reducing energy use and thus energy bills, leaving customers free to spend or invest that money elsewhere in the economy.”

Fuel source variety and choice have always been important to the people of the United States, as are jobs and economic health. The energy efficiency industry, with its diverse range of jobs and its significant contribution to economic health, is a testament to this. Understanding this industry’s far-reaching benefits can also support individuals seeking a path to this rewarding career, offering a wide range of opportunities and a strong economic foundation.

For individuals interested in joining this mission, the path is clear. Seek out training and jobs in energy efficiency. This is not just a career choice, it’s a mission, and your contribution is crucial. Look forward to a long and prosperous career, filled with the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a real difference.