If we talk about photovoltaic energy, we must mention that Asia is the top producer with more than 50% of installations worldwide. PV energy represents the future of the green economy, since it allows energy to be obtained directly, and it is a totally sustainable and economical method that will help other industries to become green.
Photovoltaic energy is one of the least expensive energies and has managed to reduce its costs of production by 75% while continuing to grow. There is still a long way to go and the expansion of this sector at a global level is urgent to achieve the goals of the transition to green energy. If everything goes according to plan, photovoltaics will reduce C02 emissions by 21% by 2050.
According to IRENA projections, the investment budget should increase by 68% to achieve adequate growth in the sector globally. This is a great indicator for industry experts, as it implies great socioeconomic benefits thanks to an increase of available jobs.
In 2018, the creation of 3.6 million jobs was expected, and almost 3 million of them were created in Asia alone. This represents 85% of global photovoltaic jobs. Now, employment growth in the United States and Europe can also be expected, since they produce 20% and 10% of PV energy worldwide, respectively.
This type of energy is the leader in job creation within renewables thanks to different factors, such as policies and incentives granted by governments. Furthermore, job creation will reflect short-term economic growth; a great example is the hiring of 372,000 people in South Asia and part of the Sub-Saharan territory.
It is imperative that both employers, employees, and even students, are aware of the employment possibilities the sub sector brings. This is an opportunity for students to begin to profile themselves as the best candidate by specializing in the tasks that are required within the sector.
Although the construction of plants will be the main source of employment, the support in different areas will be needed. Talent is required in areas such as the operational, the administrative and the research and development among others. The support of engineers and chemists who can create strategies to improve energy production and other specialists will also be required, since it is an industry that must be fully developed.
The future of photovoltaic energy is clear. It will undoubtedly end up being the main source of energy due to its many benefits, including the possibility of generating energy even at night thanks to the method of concentrating sunlight. The expansion of the sector is constant and presents a rather optimistic outlook as PV installations have reached regions with limited access to energy. The news about this sector are abundant, so let’s keep an eye on the energies of the future.
