Clean Energy Jobs Surge as US Manufacturing Hits $18 billion GDP

Subscribe to our free newsletter today to keep up to date with the latest manufacturing news.

The clean energy manufacturing industry in the United States is no longer a niche segment. It has become a central pillar of the national economy. As of 2025, the sector supports approximately 122,000 jobs and contributes $18 billion to the US gross domestic product. This momentum has been fueled by federal incentives, state-level clean energy mandates, and a global push for sustainable technologies. Yet, amid this growth, looming policy shifts threaten to slow progress and destabilize a key component of the country’s industrial future.

Economic impact of clean energy manufacturing

Clean energy manufacturing has emerged as a significant economic force. According to data from the American Clean Power Association, the sector is projected to reach $86 billion in GDP contribution and support 579,000 jobs by 2030. That represents a fivefold increase in jobs and more than quadruples the current GDP contribution.

Solar manufacturing leads this growth. The segment includes more than 90 facilities and employs over 75,000 workers. It generates $5.9 billion in earnings and contributes $11.5 billion to the economy. The average salary in clean energy manufacturing exceeds the national average by $42,000, offering high-quality jobs that support middle-class households.

Role of policy in sector growth

Federal legislation has been pivotal to the sector’s expansion. The Inflation Reduction Act, passed in 2022, provided robust incentives for domestic manufacturing, which helped drive capital investment and accelerate project development. Since then, dozens of new manufacturing plants have been announced or have begun operations, particularly in solar panel and battery production.

However, recent regulatory uncertainty has created a chilling effect on further investments. Tariff adjustments, supply chain reviews, and a lack of clarity on long-term policy commitments have led to delays and cancellations of planned facilities. Industry leaders caution that without consistent support, the US risks losing its foothold in clean energy manufacturing to international competitors.

Regional developments and case studies

States such as Ohio, Georgia, and Texas have become hubs for clean energy manufacturing due to available workforce, tax incentives, and robust transportation infrastructure. In Dalton, Georgia, the expansion of a major solar panel facility has added over 1,000 jobs and attracted secondary suppliers, giving new life to the local economy.

In Ohio, a battery manufacturing plant has partnered with local colleges to develop training programs that prepare students for high-tech manufacturing roles. These examples show how regional cooperation and investment can drive both economic growth and workforce readiness.

Looking ahead, the clean energy manufacturing sector holds enormous potential. Projections suggest nearly 600,000 jobs and an $86 billion GDP contribution by 2030. With global competition intensifying, the US faces a pivotal moment. Through coordinated action and long-term planning, clean energy manufacturing can anchor the next phase of American industrial leadership.

Sources:

• PV Magazine USA – Clean Energy Manufacturing Report