Green Collar Jobs in Colorado and the U.S.
This report by the American Solar Society presents the second annual review of national data on the size of the renewable energy and energy efficiency (RE&EE) industries, the number of jobs these industries create and the potential for their growth by 2030. It is based on 2007 data, describes the trends from 2006 to 2007 and focuses in depth on RE&EE industries in Colorado (the previous study focused on Ohio). 84 pages
The report provides a general overview of the status of, and recent trends in, the RE&EE industry, breaking it down by content area as well as sector (public, private, nonprofit). The analysis covers number of jobs, types of jobs and revenue created. The report then makes some projections of sector and job growth, applying both moderate- and high-growth scenarios. Finally, the report looks in depth at the state of Colorado, providing both a description of the existing and potential growth in the RE&EE sector and an overview of state and private sector initiatives designed to support these businesses.
The report provides a good national perspective on trends and job growth opportunities in the RE&EE sector but is fairly technical and not written for a lay audience. It will be helpful for local sustainability and economic development staff looking for a deeper understanding of national trends and how they might be reflected in the local markets they serve. The Colorado section provides a good case-study of potential state-level programs and policies designed to help expand the sector but is less helpful for those working solely with local or regional tools and strategies.
Energy that comes from sources that are not depleted by use. Examples include energy from the sun, wind, and small (low-impact) hydropower, plus geothermal energy and wave and tidal systems.Energy efficiency is the process of using less energy to produce the same or increased functions. Often used mistakenly as a synonym for ENERGY CONSERVATION. The ability or potential of a physical body to do work. The most common forms of energy are heat, light, mechanical (moving parts), and electrical.
