IRENA Predicts Asia's Dominance in Renewable Job Market

Asia is projected to host 55 percent of global renewable jobs by 2050, followed by Europe at 14 percent and the Americas at 13 percent.

December 02, 2023. By Abha Rustagi

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) predicts that an accelerated energy transition could lead to the creation of 40 million jobs in the energy sector by 2050. The agency highlights the need for progressive policies to maximize socioeconomic benefits from the shift to clean energy.

While renewable sector employment is expected to triple globally, IRENA emphasizes that job distribution will be uneven across regions. Asia is projected to host 55 percent of global renewable jobs by 2050, followed by Europe at 14 percent and the Americas at 13 percent. In contrast, sub-Saharan Africa is expected to have only 9 percent of these jobs.

IRENA notes that despite a doubling of per capita gross domestic product in Africa by the mid-century, regional inequalities may persist, especially in resource-rich countries.

The report also highlights the significant growth potential in emerging economies like India and China, suggesting a potential reshaping of the global economic landscape. IRENA emphasizes the importance of forward-thinking policies to ensure that the benefits of the energy transition are equitably distributed.

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Global renewable jobs

International Renewable Energy Agency