Minnesota cleaner energy jobs reach record level (but there’s more work ahead)

Photo by Robert Zullo/States Newsroom.

The energy transition sweeping across the U.S. offers an unprecedented opportunity to transform Minnesota’s economy and workforce for the better.

As Minnesota works to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040 as well as a carbon-neutral economy by 2050, we are addressing the risks and impacts that climate change is having on our citizens, businesses, and infrastructure while also building a solid foundation for good-paying, high-quality jobs that will sustain our local communities for generations to come. 

Minnesota’s clean energy sector is already leading the way, and this year’s 2024 Clean Jobs Midwest report further underscores the tremendous growth potential that lies ahead.

Today, 62,102 Minnesotans work in a clean energy job — a new state record.

Thanks to landmark legislation like the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act — along with the state’s 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040 law providing policy certainty — Minnesota’s clean energy jobs are growing nearly five times faster than jobs in the overall economy. This growth creates opportunities for all Minnesotans; 38% of these jobs are based in greater Minnesota, delivering economic benefits beyond the Twin Cities and into rural communities. Veterans account for 11.2% of the state’s clean energy workforce compared to 4.0% in the broader workforce, showing that clean energy jobs appeal to those who have served our country and are looking for fulfilling careers back home.

Small businesses, which account for 71% of clean energy jobs in Minnesota, are the backbone of this thriving sector, driving growth and supporting local economies. Clean vehicles represent the fastest-growing subsector, with jobs increasing by 13.2%, while manufacturing has also seen a significant boost, adding over 436 new clean energy jobs in 2023. With clean energy job growth expected to surge another 6% over the next year, Minnesota is poised to expand its leadership in this space while further strengthening and diversifying the state’s economy.

But to accelerate a just transition to a net-zero economy, we need smart policies that support the businesses, workers and communities driving this transition.

Policymakers must defend the federal clean energy and clean vehicle investments that are propelling job growth across the state. Developing and funding workforce development programs at both the federal and state levels will ensure Minnesotans have the skills needed to meet the rising demand for these high-quality jobs. 

Additionally, investing in transmission infrastructure and continuing to modernize permitting processes will ensure the state remains open for clean energy businesses and jobs while meeting the growing demand for clean, affordable and reliable energy.

Finally, Minnesota’s policymakers must continue to advance the state’s clean energy policy leadership that complements and leverages federal initiatives to solidify and grow a thriving clean energy workforce. 

As Minnesota leads the charge to a carbon-free future, stable and predictable policies are critical to helping usher in more good-paying, family-supporting clean energy jobs that are building stronger, more resilient communities in all corners of the state.

The transformation of our energy system is an opportunity to redefine what’s possible for our workforce, our economy and our future. 

With our highly educated, innovative and skilled workforce, Minnesota is perfectly positioned to continue our record-breaking clean energy jobs success if we choose to seize this moment.