Clean Jobs Midwest report

Since the IRA passed in August 2022, more than 85 large-scale clean energy projects have been announced across the Midwest, according to E2’s Clean Economy Works analysis. That’s more than a quarter of all projects announced nationwide. These projects are expected to spur $31.2 billion in private-sector investments and create more than 87,000 Midwestern jobs — with the vast majority of these projects being in rural or semi-rural areas.

One of the biggest challenges to expanding clean energy job opportunities is filling open positions. Workforce training will be critical to continued industry growth, with over 81 percent of clean energy employers in Minnesota reporting at least some difficulty hiring workers. The Minnesota Energy Alley initiative is aimed at ensuring Minnesota’s competitive position as the home for the next generation of clean energy entrepreneurs and startups bringing jobs, talent, and investment to the state

Federal and state governments must work with Midwestern transmission organizations to ensure wind, solar, and energy storage projects are able to connect to the grid and move clean, renewable power throughout the region. Minnesota recently passed permitting reform for clean energy and transmission projects into law and now it is time for the federal government to follow suit.

Minnesota has showcased its leadership in the clean energy transition over the last few years, from increasing consumer rebate programs and modernizing commercial and residential building codes to creating the Minnesota Climate Innovation Finance Authority. The state can build on this significant progress by supporting the implementation of efficient and resilient transmission, accelerating decarbonization in the transportation and building sectors, remaining competitive for clean energy manufacturers and advancing its balanced approach to the safe and responsible mining of key minerals used in the clean energy transition.