The transition to a world powered by renewable energy is coming—the question is not if, but when. An equally important question is who is going to build and benefit from the transition to a clean energy future?

Leaders within the clean energy industry predict that as energy policy catches up with science and public opinion, the deployment of clean energy will quickly accelerate. This massive transition will transform our lives and local job markets while creating opportunity for organizations and people alike around the world.

It’s actually already happening, and fast! The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that two of America’s fastest-growing jobs through 2029 will be solar installers and wind technicians, with jobs in energy efficiency not far behind. These green jobs will pay wages that are higher than the national average, and they are widely available to workers without college degrees, increasing their accessibility. Solar job growth is also expected to be the strongest in the clean energy industry, as the cost effectiveness of solar improves faster than other energy sources.

Given this upcoming economic expansion, businesses such as SunCommon have an opportunity — and, in fact, an obligation — to lead the way in making the clean energy industry a more equitable place by providing opportunities specifically for those who have so far been systemically excluded from it. 

Historically, home solar power has been largely available to middle and upper class households — and therefore mostly to white people. This was in part due to the high cost of solar systems themselves, but also the structures of solar tax credits, incentives, and financing were designed for higher income households. In order to expand the accessibility of solar power, we must  change these structures to be more accessible to lower income and communities of color. SunCommon is working with various industry and environmental justice coalitions in an effort to advance this work.

Along with individuals across the country, businesses and industry groups are acknowledging their roles in needed action to dismantle systemic racism. The energy industry in particular has a long way to go in addressing the disproportionately negative impact that fossil fuel extraction and power production has had on lower income and communities of color. The clean energy industry rightfully acknowledges that we also have work to do. While the U.S. clean energy industry has, for years, promised to bring more people of color and women into its ranks, it remains mostly white and mostly male.