As Delaware transitions into a cleaner energy economy, building a workforce equipped to meet the state’s needs is more important than ever. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) utilizes this report to look at the state’s clean energy economy and the infrastructure needed to support its expansion.
The assessment highlights key challenges and outlines actionable strategies to strengthen workforce pipelines, expand training capacity, and ensure equitable access to emerging occupations. The report acts as a roadmap for policymakers, educators, and industry leaders by aligning workforce development strategies with the state’s broader climate goals.
Key findings include:
- In 2022, Delaware’s clean energy industry employed over 12,400 workers, with most involved in energy efficiency technologies and activities. Out of the total jobs in the state, the clean energy industry comprised 2.5% of the state’s employment.
- Compared to other U.S. states, Delaware has the 11th highest share of clean energy jobs in total employment. Between 2017 and 2019, the industry’s employment increased by 3%. Since the pandemic, the workforce grew by 4% from 2020 to 2022.
- Delaware’s clean energy industry is projected to grow by 14% as a result of climate and clean energy investments, supporting almost 1,800 new jobs annually through 2030.
- Nine-in-ten surveyed clean energy firms partner with community or technical colleges (91%) and K-12 education providers (89%) to meet their workforce needs. Most (71%) also reported partnering with four-year colleges and universities.
Download the full 2024 report to explore detailed workforce projections, key findings, and recommendations shaping Delaware’s path to a cleaner future.
