Move over, solar and wind power, there’s a new alternative energy source on the rise, bringing with it a surge in job vacancies.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are gaining popularity as the world strives to meet net-zero targets. With the rise of EVs comes the need for more manufacturing facilities to produce EVs and their essential components, primarily batteries.
This emerging industry has been making significant strides in recent years, creating a plethora of job opportunities.
Major Companies Bring Green Jobs to Indiana
Samsung SDI and Stellantis have chosen Kokomo, Indiana, as the site for their second joint battery manufacturing plant in the United States.
Yes, Samsung SDI is part of the same Samsung that is a household name in electronics, from televisions and smartphones to household appliances. Stellantis, though perhaps less immediately recognizable, is a powerhouse formed from the merger of Chrysler and PSA Group—previously one of the world's top 10 car manufacturers.
This significant development promises billions in investment, nearly 2,800 new jobs for local residents, and a substantial boost to the local economy when production starts in 2027.
The Rise of Battery Manufacturing
This facility is just one of many sprouting up across the United States as EV adoption grows, bolstered by legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).
Aaron Brickman, Senior Principal of the US Program at the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), emphasized the substantial potential of battery manufacturing plants for both environmental benefits and economic growth.
“If you think about these big EV battery or solar panel manufacturing announcements, they are a big deal,” Brickman noted.
The impact is even more significant when new developments bring green jobs not only to major cities but also to small towns with struggling economies.
“Then it’s not just one story among many, it’s the entire story,” Brickman added. “When you’re in a small town and a new plant is announced, you know that the economy is going to improve, and it’s going to improve dramatically.”
Discover the latest green job opportunities in the USA at EcoCareers.