International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) published its Annual Review 2024 report titled “Renewable Energy and Jobs”

Posted 05 Oct 2024

2 min read

IRENA is an intergovernmental agency for energy transformation that facilitates international cooperation, supports countries in their energy transitions etc. India is a member.

Key findings

Global Renewable Energy (RE) workforce grew to 16.2 million, up from 13.7 million in 2022.
In 2023, India had an estimated 1.02 million renewable energy jobs.
- Hydropower was largest employer in renewable sector in India followed by followed by Solar Photovoltaic (PV).
- India added 9.7 GW of solar PV capacity in 2023 and ranked fifth globally for new installations and cumulative capacity (reached 72.7 GW by end of 2023).
- India had 2.38 lakh jobs in grid connected solar PV in 2023.
India's wind power capacity reached 44.7 GW in 2023 (ranked fourth globally) and added 2.8 GW.

India’s RE Status

RE capacity grew by 165% in 10 years, rising from 76.38 GW to 203.1 GW (2014- 2024).
Ranks 4th globally in RE Installed Capacity.

Key Skill Challenges for RE industry

Widening Skill Gaps: Rapid growth of RE is outpacing development of suitably skilled workforce.
Lack of skills anticipation and monitoring systems hinders countries’ ability to adapt education and training programmes as per market demand.

Recommendations

Strong policy coherence, social dialogue, and PPP are crucial for an effective energy transition strategy.
- Example: Sectoral Human Resource Development Plan on RE in Philippines.
Enhancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training programmes by incorporating work-based learning will equip students with practical skills necessary for careers in RE.
- Example: Zimbabwe’s Green enter PRIZE programme.