Opinion 2: 'Green Collars' Key To State's Economy
By U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern
Special to the Worcester Business Journal
Steady declines in employment have plagued practically every industry in all parts of the country, and the impact has been substantial here in Massachusetts. In a recent study, the commonwealth was ranked 49th in job creation, only finishing ahead of Michigan. An estimated 286,000 people have left the state since 2000, and weak job growth is the chief culprit.
The good news is that we have an opportunity to alleviate this "Mass. exodus" and help spur job growth by creating, retaining, and expanding renewable energy.
Congress recently passed a sweeping new energy bill that, among other things, focuses on the promotion of renewable energy. A major national investment in renewable energy can create as many as 3 million "green collar" jobs over the next decade. It's important to note that the renewable industry in Massachusetts is currently growing at annual rates between 25 percent and 35 percent, far exceeding growth in other sectors.
In a 2006 study, the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Lab identified the shortage of skills and training as a leading non-technical barrier to renewable energy job growth. By authorizing funding to establish national and state job training programs in the renewable fields, we can help put workers on the path to a stable career and financial self-sufficiency. The energy legislation creates a federal Renewable Energy Worker Training Program, which will pave the way for a sustainable and productive workforce for years to come.
Geographic Trends
With advantageous geographical features and an already strong renewable energy presence, Massachusetts stands to profit greatly from a green jobs explosion. The state is diverse in clean energy resources, including an abundant bioenergy stock, wind potential in numerous areas, and sufficient solar energy for widespread solar photovoltaic installations.
Long term investments in renewable energy will encourage taxpayers to build facilities that produce electricity from wind, solar, biomass, and marine renewables. Extending existing tax credits for solar energy and fuel cells would empower the state of Massachusetts to improve upon the renewable energy and conservation programs already instituted, and will provide small businesses with the incentives to make long term investments. Equipped with incentives and direct assistance from the government, small businesses and entrepreneurs can lead the way in renewable energy generation.
For Worcester, a green jobs workforce can produce a robust and diverse job market. From manufacturing to installation and technical support, renewable energy will accelerate job growth and spur economic development. Every sector of our community - business and labor - has a stake in renewable energy and stands to gain from its promotion.
The ongoing success of the biotechnology industry in the Greater Worcester area can serve as a model for renewable energy development. By creating partnerships among colleges and universities, businesses and local governments, the renewable industry can and should be a catalyst for economic development.
The future is bright. And if we're smart, it can be green, as well.
U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern (D), is the representative for the state's third congressional district, which includes 28 towns in Worcester, Middlesex, Norfolk and Bristol counties.
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