American clean energy factories have created over 120,000 jobs and $33 billion in annual economic activity, but upcoming federal policy decisions could stall that growth.
Julian Spector reports for Canary Media.
In short:
- A new report from the American Clean Power Association (ACP) finds that 200 clean energy factories across 38 states generate $33 billion in annual economic activity and support 122,000 jobs.
- Over 70% of these facilities are in states that voted for Donald Trump in 2024, where tax credits from the Inflation Reduction Act have driven a surge in solar, wind, and battery manufacturing.
- Proposed cuts to clean energy tax credits by Republicans in Congress could undermine future growth, with the ACP warning that current plans could lead to factory closures and job losses.
Key quote:
“If they are implemented as currently drafted, which we certainly hope they are not, we will see factories shutting down.”
— MJ Shiao, vice president of supply chain and manufacturing, American Clean Power Association
Why this matters:
Clean energy manufacturing isn’t just a climate solution — it’s an economic engine that’s transforming local economies, especially in conservative-leaning states. Factory jobs in solar, wind, and battery production pay well above the national average and help anchor small towns and mid-sized cities left behind by globalization. These factories generate ripple effects through construction, logistics, hospitality, and materials supply chains. In Texas, Georgia, and elsewhere, this activity helps stabilize local economies and give young workers reasons to stay close to home. Proposals to weaken the tax credits that undergird this sector — many introduced by Republican lawmakers whose districts benefit most — could slow or reverse this momentum.
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