Green energy already powers Europe and Slovakia, and could bring us another 50,000 jobs by 2030

Renewable energy output is growing by more than 15% worldwide
Today, they already create employment in our country at the level of one car manufacturer and its subcontractors, and by 2030, renewable energy sources could create another 50,000 jobs.

Renewable energy sources (RES) are becoming an increasingly important pillar of the European economy. Not only as a source of cheaper electricity or an important element of security during global energy crises, but also as a sector that creates employment. According to the latest analysis by the International Renewable Energy Association (IRENA), the RES sector has already created 1.8 million jobs in Europe in 2024.

“In recent years, renewable energy output has been growing by more than 15% worldwide. Repeated global energy crises, such as the one we are experiencing now, will further increase the demand for these technologies,” adds Ján Karaba, director of SAPI – the Slovak Association for Sustainable Energy.

Even in comparison with, for example, the production part of the automotive sector, which is one of the pillars of the Slovak economy, RES are gaining momentum. According to the European Commission, car production employs approximately 3.5 million people in Europe, so the RES sector with approximately 1.8 million jobs already accounts for more than half of employment in it.

“If we look at renewable sources only through megawatts and emissions, we only see half the picture. The other half is jobs in the regions, investments and work with added value. RES are an important pillar not only in the energy sector, but also in employment and GDP creation. They are no longer just a supplement to the economy,” adds J. Karaba.

Places in RES = one car factory
Slovakia has a tradition in industrial production and, within the educational system, schools that could educate enough experts not only for the field of production, but also for research and development in the development of an industry linked to RES. The industry is already benefiting from this. According to SAPI estimates, RES currently create more than 22,000 jobs in Slovakia, which is approximately equivalent to the effect of one car manufacturer, including subcontractors.

“It’s not just about jobs directly in production, but also in the entire supply chain, including local jobs and small entrepreneurs, tradespeople who provide installation and service of these technologies throughout Slovakia,” explains J. Karaba.