In a significant milestone for India's renewable energy sector, the total number of jobs reached an estimated 1.02 million in 2023, according to the 2024 Annual Review by the International Renewable Energy Agency.

The global renewable energy workforce grew to 16.2 million, up from 13.7 million in 2022, with India making a notable contribution to this rise. The report, developed in collaboration with the International Labour Organization, highlights India's growing leadership in clean energy and its focus on creating green jobs that drive economic growth.

As renewable energy continues to grow in India, it is not only boosting the economy but also creating sustainable livelihoods for millions. The sector plays a vital role in shaping a greener future, supporting India's journey toward energy independence and environmental sustainability while opening up new avenues for employment across the country.

The IRENA Renewable Energy and Jobs series provides a comprehensive overview of employment trends within the renewable energy sector. It examines the global landscape of renewable energy technologies and analyzes employment across different countries, including India.

The report assesses public and private sector policies influencing job creation, such as those related to renewable energy deployment, industrial growth, skill development, and labour market initiatives. Although detailed information on education, skill requirements, and workforce attributes in renewable energy remains limited, the series emphasizes the need for decent work to ensure a fair and inclusive energy transition.

Each edition of the series presents the most recent data, focusing on key aspects like employment in energy access, gender equity in the workforce, and the demands of a just transition. Since 2011, this series has been a part of IRENA’s broader analysis of the socio-economic effects of a renewable energy-based transition, covering topics such as job creation, the development of local capacities, women’s participation in the sector, and education and training opportunities. The reports also explore the impact of renewable energy pathways on jobs, GDP, and overall human welfare, with projections up to 2050.

Out of the 1.02 million people employed in India's renewable energy sector in 2023, Hydropower and Solar Photovoltaic were the largest contributors, employing the most individuals.

In addition to that, Wind Power generated 52,000 jobs, Liquid Biofuels provided 35,000, and Solid Biomass accounted for 58,000 jobs. The Solar Heating and Cooling sector employed 17,000 people, while Biogas created 85,000 jobs, showcasing the diverse employment landscape within the sector.

India is accelerating its transition to a sustainable energy future through a range of initiatives. Key programs include the National Green Hydrogen Mission, PM-KUSUM, PM Surya Ghar, and PLI schemes for solar PV modules. These efforts not only drive renewable energy adoption but also create significant job opportunities.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is spearheading the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which was approved by the Union Cabinet on January 4, 2023, with a financial outlay of ₹19,744 crore. The primary objective of this mission is to position India as a global hub for the production, usage, and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives.

This mission is set to deliver wide-ranging economic benefits by decarbonizing various sectors, including industry, mobility, and energy. It aims to reduce the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels while simultaneously fostering the development of indigenous manufacturing capabilities.

Additionally, the mission is expected to create numerous employment opportunities across the value chain and stimulate advancements in cutting-edge technologies and an innovation ecosystem within the country.

The mission is also poised to generate numerous jobs through the establishment of an innovation ecosystem, where cutting-edge technologies related to green hydrogen will be developed. With a target to produce at least five million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030, and potentially increasing that to 10 MMT as export markets expand, the mission aims to drive sustainable job growth. This initiative is not only pivotal for India’s energy transition but also essential for enhancing the renewable energy workforce, thus contributing to the overall employment landscape in the sector.

In conclusion, the IRENA report underscores the sector's vital role in driving economic growth and creating sustainable livelihoods. By prioritizing job opportunities alongside energy transition, India not only advances its environmental goals but also fosters a robust economy that supports livelihoods nationwide. This dual focus on sustainability and employment positions India as a global leader in renewable energy, paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.