Solar Workforce Development

Strong federal and state support, declining system costs, and growing public and private sector demand for solar energy have all contributed to a rapid increase in solar deployment over the past decade. In order to support this growth, the solar workforce will need to grow significantly with jobs that are available to workers from all backgrounds, provide competitive wages and benefits, and offer opportunities for union membership.

Solar workforce research and development at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) supports efforts to prepare and sustain this skilled solar energy workforce. Workforce development initiatives funded by SETO include online and in-person training and education programs, work-based learning opportunities such as internships and apprenticeships, collegiate competitions, certification programs, and support services such as career counseling, mentorship, and job readiness. Program performance metrics are analyzed to assess the impact of different workforce strategies and partnerships, which can then inform target metrics and intended outcomes for future programming. Additionally, SETO solicits stakeholder feedback and analyzes industry growth and workforce trends in order to make informed decisions related to the solar workforce.

Through these efforts, SETO supports a solar energy workforce ecosystem that provides affordable learning opportunities and pathways to stable careers and economic prosperity. A well-trained workforce supports solar energy that will safely and reliably generate power now and for decades to come. Learn more about SETO’s goals.