“A Powerhouse for Solar and EV Manufacturing” – New Report Shows Clean Energy Jobs and Investment Booming in Ohio

(Columbus, OH) – A newly released report suggests that since historic federal clean energy legislation was signed into law in 2021 and 2022, Ohio has experienced a boom in clean energy projects, leading to thousands of new jobs and billions in local investment. The report ranked Ohio as the state with the tenth-highest total of new clean energy jobs in the nation.

The March 2024 “State of the Clean Energy Boom Report” indicates that since the passage of the landmark legislation, 21 new clean energy projects in Ohio have led to $8.8 billion in investments in EV, battery, and solar manufacturing projects, making the state “a powerhouse for solar and EV manufacturing.” These projects have also generated more than 8,612 new good-paying clean energy jobs for skilled laborers, including electricians, mechanics, technicians, construction workers, and support staff.

“It’s clear that this legislation has empowered massive private sector investment in clean energy projects right here in Ohio,” said Power a Clean Future Ohio’s (PCFO) Executive Director, Joe Flarida. “This is a testament to the work being done in local communities across the state to reduce carbon emissions and build our clean energy future.”

The report also shows that approximately half of Ohio’s clean energy projects, representing 4,742 new jobs and $6.22 billion in investment, are in low-income communities. Through the federal clean energy legislation, tax incentives are available to businesses that pay fair wages, offer apprenticeships, or invest in historically disadvantaged communities.

“Developing clean energy projects in low-income communities does more than create new good-paying jobs or training programs,” said PCFO Deputy Director, Cassandra Clevenger. “These investments can reduce harmful emissions that have a disproportionate impact on the health and well-being of marginalized communities. Investment at this scale can contribute to significant improvements in public health outcomes and local infrastructure, making more equitable and resilient communities.”

Since 2020, Power a Clean Future Ohio has helped local governments make meaningful reductions in carbon emissions by taking advantage of resources available to them through federal funding opportunities and incentives. Of the 21 projects included in this report, eight are situated in PCFO Member Communities and represent nearly $1.8 billion in investment and 2,595 new jobs. 

“We’ve seen first-hand the impact that federal resources can make locally,” said Flarida. “Incentivizing new clean energy projects ultimately leads to investment in our communities and residents, our economy, and a more equitable, prosperous future for all Ohioans.”

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