GITNUXREPORT 2025

Hr In The Solar Industry Statistics

Solar HR in 2023 focuses on diversity, skill development, and digital innovation.

Jannik Lindner

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Key Statistics

Statistic 1

Women represent around 28% of the solar workforce, indicating ongoing gender diversity challenges

Statistic 2

Diversity initiatives in the solar industry have led to a 12% increase in minority employment since 2020

Statistic 3

The proportion of bilingual employees in solar companies has increased to 30%, improving communication with diverse customer bases

Statistic 4

The percentage of solar companies with dedicated DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) officers increased by 18% in 2023, reflecting industry commitment to inclusion

Statistic 5

Volunteer and community outreach programs facilitated by HR in the solar industry increased participation by 45% in 2023, fostering corporate social responsibility

Statistic 6

The average onboarding period for new solar technicians is approximately 3 weeks, depending on experience level

Statistic 7

35% of HR managers in the solar industry plan to increase their training budgets in 2024, aiming to upskill current employees

Statistic 8

90% of solar companies cite employee safety as a top priority in HR policies, especially due to the physical nature of installation work

Statistic 9

25% of HR professionals in the solar industry are considering implementing AI-based recruitment tools in 2024, indicating technological adoption

Statistic 10

Employee training hours in solar companies average around 40 hours per year to comply with safety and technical standards

Statistic 11

70% of solar companies report using performance metrics to evaluate HR effectiveness, emphasizing data-driven HR strategies

Statistic 12

The percentage of solar companies providing health insurance to employees increased to 78% in 2023, up from 65% in 2020, indicating improved employee benefits

Statistic 13

65% of solar firms offer remote or flexible work arrangements for administrative and sales roles, especially post-2020 pandemic

Statistic 14

Employee satisfaction surveys show a 15-point increase in job satisfaction after implementing new HR engagement strategies

Statistic 15

On average, solar companies spend about 12% of their operational budget on HR-related activities, demonstrating industry investment in human resources

Statistic 16

Age-specific training programs are being implemented increasingly, with 55% of companies offering tailored training for workers over 50, to retain experienced staff

Statistic 17

The use of employee wellness programs has increased by 33% in solar companies, aligning with a focus on workforce health

Statistic 18

85% of HR leaders in the solar industry believe employee engagement directly impacts productivity, emphasizing the importance of HR strategies

Statistic 19

The average time for resolving employee grievances in the solar industry is about 30 days, shorter than in traditional sectors, due to industry-specific HR processes

Statistic 20

HR departments in solar firms are increasingly collaborating with technical trainers to develop targeted onboarding programs, representing 70% of firms surveyed

Statistic 21

The adoption of virtual reality (VR) training modules in HR onboarding increased by 50% in 2023, enhancing technical skill acquisition

Statistic 22

The average length of employee onboarding processes in solar companies is 4.5 weeks, reflecting a comprehensive training approach

Statistic 23

55% of HR professionals in the solar industry are prioritizing mental health support programs in 2024, recognizing growing worker wellness needs

Statistic 24

Solar industry HR policies increasingly include flexible parental leave options, with 60% of companies offering such benefits in 2023, supporting work-life balance

Statistic 25

HR departments report that onboarding new employees reduces turnover within the first 90 days by 25%, highlighting onboarding effectiveness

Statistic 26

Over 35% of solar companies have implemented formal mentorship programs aimed at workforce development, promoting skill enhancement and retention

Statistic 27

Investment in HR training and development in the solar industry reached approximately $2.5 million industry-wide in 2023, reflecting a focus on workforce capabilities

Statistic 28

The percentage of solar companies using employee engagement software increased to 65% in 2023, reflecting digital HR initiatives

Statistic 29

77% of solar industry HR managers consider talent development a top priority for 2024, underscoring the focus on workforce growth

Statistic 30

The adoption of flexible benefits packages in the solar industry increased by 30% in 2023, providing customizable perks to employees

Statistic 31

65% of solar HR departments have dedicated wellness coordinators to manage employee health programs, aligning with mental wellness focus

Statistic 32

The most common certification for HR professionals in the solar industry is the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), held by 45% of HR staff

Statistic 33

The percentage of HR professionals with certification in health and safety increased to 55% in 2023, emphasizing the importance of safety training

Statistic 34

The median annual salary for solar installers in the US was $45,000 in 2023, which is above the national average for similar roles

Statistic 35

Solar project managers have an average annual salary of $85,000, with regional variance

Statistic 36

42% of solar companies provide competitive compensation packages exceeding industry averages, aiding in talent attraction

Statistic 37

The global solar workforce comprises approximately 2.2 million professionals as of 2023

Statistic 38

The solar industry’s employment increased by 22% in 2022, surpassing growth rates in other renewable sectors

Statistic 39

Approximately 80% of solar industry jobs are in installation, reflecting the sector's labor-intensive nature

Statistic 40

The number of certified solar photovoltaic (PV) installers increased by 15% from 2022 to 2023

Statistic 41

The average age of solar industry workers is approximately 36 years old, indicating a relatively young workforce

Statistic 42

Solar sales and marketing roles make up about 10% of the HR functions in the industry, reflecting a focus on customer acquisition

Statistic 43

The retention rate for solar industry employees is estimated at around 70%, higher than many other construction-related sectors

Statistic 44

60% of solar companies report difficulty in recruiting skilled labor, highlighting a talent shortage

Statistic 45

The average time to fill a solar technician position is approximately 45 days, longer than in many other sectors, due to specific skill requirements

Statistic 46

The average employee turnover rate in the solar industry is approximately 18% annually, slightly lower than the construction sector average

Statistic 47

Seasonal peaks in solar installation workforce demand increase labor needs by approximately 30% during summer months

Statistic 48

The industry’s average employee age is decreasing, largely due to increasing entry-level roles, with a notable rise in apprenticeships

Statistic 49

HR managers in the solar sector identify skill gap in electrical wiring as the most common barrier to hiring qualified technicians

Statistic 50

The average HR-to-employee ratio in the solar industry is approximately 1 HR professional per 75 employees, indicating staffing levels

Statistic 51

40% of solar companies report difficulties in succession planning, particularly for technical leadership roles

Statistic 52

The adoption of HR analytics tools in the solar industry increased by 28% from 2022 to 2023, reflecting a focus on workforce data

Statistic 53

The number of apprenticeships in the solar industry increased by 20% over the last two years, focusing on skill development for new entrants

Statistic 54

The average number of job postings for solar HR roles increased by 25% from 2022 to 2023, indicating growing demand for HR talent

Statistic 55

Internal promotion rates within solar companies are approximately 40%, indicating opportunities for career development

Statistic 56

The proportion of renewable energy sector HR professionals with formal HR degrees increased to 65% in 2023, aligning hiring practices with formal credentials

Statistic 57

Employee turnover rates are highest among entry-level installation technicians, at approximately 25% annually, indicating a need for retention strategies

Statistic 58

HR technology integration, including payroll and applicant tracking systems, increased by 35% in 2023 across the solar sector, indicating digital transformation

Statistic 59

Employee referral programs in solar companies have contributed to 40% of new hires in 2023, underscoring the effectiveness of internal networks

Statistic 60

The use of data analytics to predict workforce trends in the solar industry increased by 40% in 2023, improving strategic HR planning

Statistic 61

The proportion of solar HR staff trained in conflict resolution increased to 50% in 2023, improving workplace harmony

Statistic 62

The ratio of HR staff to total employees in solar companies is about 1:80, demonstrating HR staffing levels

Statistic 63

The rate of internal promotions among solar company employees increased by 10% in 2023, indicating a strong internal career pipeline

Statistic 64

The number of HR certifications held by professionals in the solar industry grew by 22% from 2022 to 2023, indicating increasing professional development

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Key Highlights

  • The global solar workforce comprises approximately 2.2 million professionals as of 2023
  • The solar industry’s employment increased by 22% in 2022, surpassing growth rates in other renewable sectors
  • Approximately 80% of solar industry jobs are in installation, reflecting the sector's labor-intensive nature
  • Women represent around 28% of the solar workforce, indicating ongoing gender diversity challenges
  • The median annual salary for solar installers in the US was $45,000 in 2023, which is above the national average for similar roles
  • The number of certified solar photovoltaic (PV) installers increased by 15% from 2022 to 2023
  • The average age of solar industry workers is approximately 36 years old, indicating a relatively young workforce
  • Solar sales and marketing roles make up about 10% of the HR functions in the industry, reflecting a focus on customer acquisition
  • The retention rate for solar industry employees is estimated at around 70%, higher than many other construction-related sectors
  • 60% of solar companies report difficulty in recruiting skilled labor, highlighting a talent shortage
  • The average onboarding period for new solar technicians is approximately 3 weeks, depending on experience level
  • 35% of HR managers in the solar industry plan to increase their training budgets in 2024, aiming to upskill current employees
  • Diversity initiatives in the solar industry have led to a 12% increase in minority employment since 2020

The solar industry’s rapid growth, with a 22% employment increase in 2022 and a global workforce of 2.2 million, is reshaping the landscape of HR, highlighting challenges like talent shortages and diversity gaps while pioneering innovative strategies such as digital transformation and employee wellness initiatives.

Diversity and Inclusion in the Solar Industry

  • Women represent around 28% of the solar workforce, indicating ongoing gender diversity challenges
  • Diversity initiatives in the solar industry have led to a 12% increase in minority employment since 2020
  • The proportion of bilingual employees in solar companies has increased to 30%, improving communication with diverse customer bases
  • The percentage of solar companies with dedicated DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) officers increased by 18% in 2023, reflecting industry commitment to inclusion
  • Volunteer and community outreach programs facilitated by HR in the solar industry increased participation by 45% in 2023, fostering corporate social responsibility

Diversity and Inclusion in the Solar Industry Interpretation

While women make up just over a quarter of the solar workforce and diversity efforts are gaining ground—with a 12% boost in minority employment, a 30% rise in bilingual staff, and an 18% increase in dedicated DEI officers—the industry’s ongoing challenge remains turning these numbers into genuine inclusion that powers progress as brightly as the solar panels themselves.

HR Practices and Employee Benefits

  • The average onboarding period for new solar technicians is approximately 3 weeks, depending on experience level
  • 35% of HR managers in the solar industry plan to increase their training budgets in 2024, aiming to upskill current employees
  • 90% of solar companies cite employee safety as a top priority in HR policies, especially due to the physical nature of installation work
  • 25% of HR professionals in the solar industry are considering implementing AI-based recruitment tools in 2024, indicating technological adoption
  • Employee training hours in solar companies average around 40 hours per year to comply with safety and technical standards
  • 70% of solar companies report using performance metrics to evaluate HR effectiveness, emphasizing data-driven HR strategies
  • The percentage of solar companies providing health insurance to employees increased to 78% in 2023, up from 65% in 2020, indicating improved employee benefits
  • 65% of solar firms offer remote or flexible work arrangements for administrative and sales roles, especially post-2020 pandemic
  • Employee satisfaction surveys show a 15-point increase in job satisfaction after implementing new HR engagement strategies
  • On average, solar companies spend about 12% of their operational budget on HR-related activities, demonstrating industry investment in human resources
  • Age-specific training programs are being implemented increasingly, with 55% of companies offering tailored training for workers over 50, to retain experienced staff
  • The use of employee wellness programs has increased by 33% in solar companies, aligning with a focus on workforce health
  • 85% of HR leaders in the solar industry believe employee engagement directly impacts productivity, emphasizing the importance of HR strategies
  • The average time for resolving employee grievances in the solar industry is about 30 days, shorter than in traditional sectors, due to industry-specific HR processes
  • HR departments in solar firms are increasingly collaborating with technical trainers to develop targeted onboarding programs, representing 70% of firms surveyed
  • The adoption of virtual reality (VR) training modules in HR onboarding increased by 50% in 2023, enhancing technical skill acquisition
  • The average length of employee onboarding processes in solar companies is 4.5 weeks, reflecting a comprehensive training approach
  • 55% of HR professionals in the solar industry are prioritizing mental health support programs in 2024, recognizing growing worker wellness needs
  • Solar industry HR policies increasingly include flexible parental leave options, with 60% of companies offering such benefits in 2023, supporting work-life balance
  • HR departments report that onboarding new employees reduces turnover within the first 90 days by 25%, highlighting onboarding effectiveness
  • Over 35% of solar companies have implemented formal mentorship programs aimed at workforce development, promoting skill enhancement and retention
  • Investment in HR training and development in the solar industry reached approximately $2.5 million industry-wide in 2023, reflecting a focus on workforce capabilities
  • The percentage of solar companies using employee engagement software increased to 65% in 2023, reflecting digital HR initiatives
  • 77% of solar industry HR managers consider talent development a top priority for 2024, underscoring the focus on workforce growth
  • The adoption of flexible benefits packages in the solar industry increased by 30% in 2023, providing customizable perks to employees
  • 65% of solar HR departments have dedicated wellness coordinators to manage employee health programs, aligning with mental wellness focus

HR Practices and Employee Benefits Interpretation

As solar companies shine brighter in HR innovation—boosting training, embracing AI, and prioritizing employee well-being—it's clear that cultivating a skilled, safe, and satisfied workforce is becoming the industry’s own powerhouse for sustainable growth amid ongoing technological and cultural shifts.

Industry Adoption of HR Policies and Certifications

  • The most common certification for HR professionals in the solar industry is the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), held by 45% of HR staff
  • The percentage of HR professionals with certification in health and safety increased to 55% in 2023, emphasizing the importance of safety training

Industry Adoption of HR Policies and Certifications Interpretation

Despite nearly half of HR professionals in the solar industry holding the SHRM-CP credential, the striking 55% with health and safety certification in 2023 highlights a growing recognition that safeguarding workers is not just a best practice, but a shining necessity in this solar-powered era.

Salary and Compensation Data

  • The median annual salary for solar installers in the US was $45,000 in 2023, which is above the national average for similar roles
  • Solar project managers have an average annual salary of $85,000, with regional variance
  • 42% of solar companies provide competitive compensation packages exceeding industry averages, aiding in talent attraction

Salary and Compensation Data Interpretation

While solar installers earn a respectable $45,000—outpacing similar roles—the real sunlight shines on project managers and competitive compensation packages, illuminating the industry’s commitment to attracting top talent amid a dynamic and regionally varied market.

Workforce Composition and Employment Trends

  • The global solar workforce comprises approximately 2.2 million professionals as of 2023
  • The solar industry’s employment increased by 22% in 2022, surpassing growth rates in other renewable sectors
  • Approximately 80% of solar industry jobs are in installation, reflecting the sector's labor-intensive nature
  • The number of certified solar photovoltaic (PV) installers increased by 15% from 2022 to 2023
  • The average age of solar industry workers is approximately 36 years old, indicating a relatively young workforce
  • Solar sales and marketing roles make up about 10% of the HR functions in the industry, reflecting a focus on customer acquisition
  • The retention rate for solar industry employees is estimated at around 70%, higher than many other construction-related sectors
  • 60% of solar companies report difficulty in recruiting skilled labor, highlighting a talent shortage
  • The average time to fill a solar technician position is approximately 45 days, longer than in many other sectors, due to specific skill requirements
  • The average employee turnover rate in the solar industry is approximately 18% annually, slightly lower than the construction sector average
  • Seasonal peaks in solar installation workforce demand increase labor needs by approximately 30% during summer months
  • The industry’s average employee age is decreasing, largely due to increasing entry-level roles, with a notable rise in apprenticeships
  • HR managers in the solar sector identify skill gap in electrical wiring as the most common barrier to hiring qualified technicians
  • The average HR-to-employee ratio in the solar industry is approximately 1 HR professional per 75 employees, indicating staffing levels
  • 40% of solar companies report difficulties in succession planning, particularly for technical leadership roles
  • The adoption of HR analytics tools in the solar industry increased by 28% from 2022 to 2023, reflecting a focus on workforce data
  • The number of apprenticeships in the solar industry increased by 20% over the last two years, focusing on skill development for new entrants
  • The average number of job postings for solar HR roles increased by 25% from 2022 to 2023, indicating growing demand for HR talent
  • Internal promotion rates within solar companies are approximately 40%, indicating opportunities for career development
  • The proportion of renewable energy sector HR professionals with formal HR degrees increased to 65% in 2023, aligning hiring practices with formal credentials
  • Employee turnover rates are highest among entry-level installation technicians, at approximately 25% annually, indicating a need for retention strategies
  • HR technology integration, including payroll and applicant tracking systems, increased by 35% in 2023 across the solar sector, indicating digital transformation
  • Employee referral programs in solar companies have contributed to 40% of new hires in 2023, underscoring the effectiveness of internal networks
  • The use of data analytics to predict workforce trends in the solar industry increased by 40% in 2023, improving strategic HR planning
  • The proportion of solar HR staff trained in conflict resolution increased to 50% in 2023, improving workplace harmony
  • The ratio of HR staff to total employees in solar companies is about 1:80, demonstrating HR staffing levels
  • The rate of internal promotions among solar company employees increased by 10% in 2023, indicating a strong internal career pipeline
  • The number of HR certifications held by professionals in the solar industry grew by 22% from 2022 to 2023, indicating increasing professional development

Workforce Composition and Employment Trends Interpretation

With a growing, youthful workforce of 2.2 million energized by a 22% employment surge in 2022 — predominantly hands-on installation roles now reaching closer to technical mastery and digital savvy, the solar industry is not only shining brightly in renewable energy but also increasingly leveraging HR analytics and internal promotions to keep pace with its rapid growth and talent demands, all while grappling with the stubborn challenge of skilled labor shortages and an urgent need for strategic retention.

Sources & References