ComEd-commissioned study predicts clean energy transition could bring more than 150,000 new jobs to Illinois by 2050
While much has been stated about what the clean energy transition could do for the environment, a new study from BW Research – as commissioned by ComEd – determined that such efforts could create more than 150,000 jobs for Illinois alone by 2050.
The study focused on two scenarios, a business-as-usual approach under the state Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and the federal Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and another that included additional moves beyond those required by law to achieve economy-wide decarbonization by 2050. It’s the second that could bring massive gains, including a milestone of 41,000 new jobs by 2030. The first approach would bring a more modest net increase of 15,000 jobs by 2030 and a total of 38,000 jobs by 2050.
“As evidenced by this foundational study, Illinois stands to gain tens of thousands of good-paying jobs from the transition to a clean energy future – and we must ensure that all communities benefit from this economic opportunity,” Gil Quiniones, ComEd CEO, said. “This research will help ensure that, working with community partners, we can build a diverse pipeline of talent ready to power the state’s journey to a cleaner, brighter future.”
ComEd aided the study with interviews with more than a dozen local businesses and community groups, the insights from which were ultimately incorporated into BW Research’s analysis. The company ultimately showcased employment outputs for four sectors of the economy: electricity, fuels, transportation, and buildings.
The study’s scenarios showed that regardless of which path the state ultimately takes, job quality is set for improvement, along with more high-paying and mid-wage jobs. ComEd stated that it will use the study to inform current job training programs, future hiring, and training plans, and support training programs built on partnerships with the state and local organizations.
