Solar Cells, Automation and Green Jobs

New York Times (7/20, Schneiderman) – Aside from its environmental benefits, solar energy is frequently touted for its job creation potential. But for solar manufacturers themselves, machines — not employees — may be the key to their long-term survival…To stay competitive, therefore, manufacturers in Europe, Japan and the United States — where labor costs are significantly higher — will need to employ more automation technology.

Of course, industry analysts and manufacturers say solar power still holds significant promise for job creation — though mostly on the installation and maintenance side of things. And Mr. Efird and others suggested that, like the heating and air conditioning contractors, solar installation and maintenance jobs are more durable in the long run. “You cannot export those jobs,” he said. “It’s local people doing local work in local communities.”