Renewable energy employment worldwide reached 12 million last year, up from 1.5 million in 2010, according to a report released by the International Renewable Energy Agency in collaboration with the International Labour Organization.

Solar and wind energy jobs led employment growth in the renewable sector, accounting for 4 million and 1.25 million jobs respectively.

“Renewable energy’s ability to create jobs and meet climate goals is beyond doubt,” said Francesco la Camera, Irena director-general.

China commanded a 39% share of renewable energy jobs worldwide in 2020, followed by Brazil, India, the US and members of the European Union. The organisations noted many other countries are also creating jobs in renewables, such as Vietnam and Malaysia, which are key solar photovoltaic exporters.