Solar Jobs Census

IREC's annual Solar Jobs Census is the authoritative account on solar jobs and the state of the workforce.

National Solar Jobs Census 2021

Next Solar Jobs Census Report: Summer 2023

Thanks to everyone who completed the confidential survey from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to support IREC’s next National Solar Jobs Census! The 13th annual Solar Jobs Census report will be released in summer 2023. If you have questions on the next report, contact us to learn more.

National Solar Jobs Census 2021

The U.S. solar industry employs 255,037 workers as of 2021, according to the 12th annual National Solar Jobs Census.

This annual report tracks solar jobs data nationwide and in all 50 states. It features in-depth analysis on jobs by market segment, demographics, and workforce development trends. 

The National Solar Jobs Census was first published in 2010 by The Solar Foundation, which has now merged with IREC. Download the full report below, along with a supplementary spreadsheet on the data behind the report.

Fact Sheets

workers in harnesses carrying solar panels

Key Findings

Over 250,000 Solar Workers

This represents an increase of 9.2%, or 21,563 more jobs compared to 2020.

Solar Jobs Up in 47 States

Nearly every state saw job growth in 2021, driven by growth in consumer, business, and utility demand.

Installation Firms Lead Growth

Over the past decade, the most significant has been in the installation and project development sector, which has more than tripled the number of jobs since 2011.

A Path to Career Advancement

Less than one-third of solar industry jobs require a bachelor’s degree, but positions are also available in advanced fields.

By the Numbers

255,037

Solar Workers in 2021

21,563

Jobs Added, 2020-2021

168,960

Jobs at Solar Installation Firms, 2021

Solar Jobs By State

The National Solar Jobs Census has tracked job growth in all 50 states since 2015. Below is a map of solar jobs in each state and the District of Columbia. Puerto Rico has 1,985 solar jobs as of 2021.

Thanks to Our Sponsors

We thank the following organizations for sponsoring the National Solar Jobs Census 2021, along with media sponsor Solar Power World.

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12 Years of the Solar Jobs Census