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 supplementary tables on solar jobs by industry sector since 2010, and solar workforce demographics since 2014.
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.
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