UN 
For the first time in history, employment in the renewable energy sector has surpassed jobs in the fossil fuel industry worldwide, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). The agency’s 2026 report reveals that more than 13 million people are now employed in renewable energy, compared to 12.3 million in coal, oil, and gas sectors.
This shift reflects the accelerating global transition toward clean energy technologies driven by policy support, investment flows, and technological innovation. The growth in renewables jobs is particularly strong in solar photovoltaics, wind power, and energy storage sectors.
IRENA Director-General Francesco La Camera stated, “The green energy transition is not just an environmental imperative but also a major driver of economic opportunity and inclusive job creation. Policymakers must ensure this growth benefits all workers through just transition strategies.”
Despite this progress, challenges remain in reskilling workers from declining fossil fuel industries and ensuring equitable employment opportunities, especially in developing countries. The transition underscores the critical intersection of climate action and economic growth under the Sustainable Development Goals framework.
