The 2013
National Solar Jobs Census compiled by The Solar Foundation revealed that the Washington
solar industry employed over 2,000 workers in 2013. This figure includes the
addition of 700 solar workers, representing a 35% growth in employment since
September 2012. The top three sectors reviewed
included manufacturing, installation, and sales and distribution.
Noteworthy national findings from the census include:
- 77% of the 24,000 nationwide solar jobs are new jobs rather than existing positions that have added solar responsibilities.
- Installers added the most solar workers over the past year, growing by 22%, an increase of 12,500 workers.
- During 2014 solar employment is expected to grow by 15.6%.
- Wages paid by solar firms are competitive, with the average solar installer earning wages comparable to skilled electricians and plumbers and higher than average rates for roofers and construction workers.
Whatcom
County can expect positive solar employment growth in 2014 due to the expansion
of the itek Energy’s facility. Itek Energy is one of the only two manufacturing
firms in Washington, the other being Arlington-based Silicon Energy. Per an
interview by the Bellingham Business Journal published November 2013, itek
currently staffs 30 people and anticipates doubling their number of employees
this year.
Local
installers saw positive numbers in the first quarter and anticipate hiring more
crews to meet demand over the next six months.
Written by Amanda Brock. Marketing Director for Western Solar Inc. April 2014.
