Abu Dhabi/Geneva – Global renewable energy jobs grew only modestly in 2024 despite installations hitting new highs, according to a report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO).

The Renewable Energy and Jobs – Annual Review 2025 found employment in the sector rose 2.3% from 2023, reaching 16.6 million jobs. Analysts say geopolitical tensions, economic frictions and increasing automation are reshaping the workforce.

China continues to dominate, creating 7.3 million jobs – 44% of the global total – thanks to its vast supply chains and low-cost manufacturing. The European Union held steady at 1.8 million jobs, while Brazil reported 1.4 million. India and the United States saw only limited growth, reaching 1.3 million and 1.1 million respectively.

IRENA’s Director-General Francesco La Camera said governments must put people at the centre of energy and climate policies. “Renewable energy deployment is booming, but the human side of the story is as important as the technological side,” he said, urging stronger international collaboration to meet the target of tripling renewable capacity by 2030.

Solar power remains the largest employer, accounting for 7.3 million jobs worldwide, three-quarters of them in Asia. China alone hosts 4.2 million solar jobs. Liquid biofuels created 2.6 million jobs, hydropower 2.3 million, and wind energy 1.9 million.

Beyond the figures, the report highlights the need for greater inclusion. Women and people with disabilities remain underrepresented in the sector. ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo said disability inclusion must be built into every stage of policy design. “It is not only a matter of justice; it is essential for resilient labour markets and sustainable development,” he said.

The report calls for accessible training, inclusive hiring practices and workplaces that welcome diverse talents. It warns that discriminatory practices and outdated social norms must be left behind if the energy transition is to deliver benefits for all.

This is the 12th edition of the annual review and the fifth produced jointly by IRENA and the ILO, with this year’s focus on disability inclusion in the renewable energy workforce.