Wind energy to create millions of good-paying union jobs with U.S. manufactured steel

Wind energy could generate 3.3 million jobs over the next five years, according to analysis from the Global Wind Energy Council.

President Biden’s Build Back Better agenda calls for the installation of 30 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 2030, triggering $12 billion per year in capital investment in projects on both U.S. coasts, creating tens of thousands of union jobs. The move would employ more than 44,000 workers in offshore wind by 2030 and nearly 33,000 additional jobs in communities supported by offshore wind activity.

John Shinn, International Secretary-Treasurer of the United Steelworkers, joined America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss what an investment in wind power will do for American workers and why using American steel is critical to making the most of that investment.

Wind energy an enticing economic opportunity

With renewable energy projects, this country has a great opportunity to develop more good paying union jobs, Shinn said. In order to make the most of these investments using American made products, supply chain hubs to develop the steel will need to be built. Such agreements are currently in the works.

It is an exciting opportunity because without these hubs, developers will simply bring the components from Europe and the U.S. economy will miss out on thousands of jobs, he stated.

Some people may stubbornly deny there is a climate crisis, but the reality cannot be ignored, Shinn said. Even energy companies are increasingly becoming aware of the need to invest in alternative energies.

The good news is the $1 trillion infrastructure plan, as well as the $3.5 budget resolution bill, will put the country in a strong position to follow through on renewable energy investment.