"Artificial Intelligence and Its Effects on Employment in Renewable Energy"

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in the Renewable Energy Sector

The renewable energy sector is undergoing transformation with technologies that provide labor savings and applications of artificial intelligence. The "Renewable Energy and Employment - Annual Assessment 2025" report, prepared in collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), emphasizes that automation and economic uncertainty are limiting employment growth.

Global Employment Data

In 2024, employment in the renewable energy sector increased by 2.3 percent, reaching 16.6 million people. In 2023, this number had risen to 16 million 200 thousand people.

China Leads in the Renewable Energy Sector

China has created approximately 7.3 million jobs, corresponding to 44 percent of global employment, by utilizing its industrial capacity and integrated supply chains. The European Union follows with 1.8 million people, while Brazil reached 1.4 million jobs.

Solar Energy Dominates Employment

In 2024, the solar photovoltaic (PV) sector employed 7.3 million people, holding the largest share of employment in the sector. Seventy-five percent of global PV employment is found in Asian countries.

Call for an Inclusive and Equitable Future

The report highlights the need for equality and inclusivity in the renewable energy sector. It emphasizes the importance of empowering women and people with disabilities, stating that conscious policies need to be implemented in this regard.

Human-Centered Renewable Energy Investments

IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera suggests increasing renewable energy investments and implementing qualified workforce development policies. La Camera states that we need to place humans at the center of energy.

The Impact of Digitalization

IRENA and ILO experts indicate that digitalization and artificial intelligence will reduce the need for employment. This change is stated to potentially affect the workforce in the energy sector.