By Sue Wambolt, Contributing Writer
Southborough – The 5th Annual Clean Energy Week showcased clean-energy companies throughout the commonwealth boasting impressive growth and a marked increase in jobs.
According to the 2011 Massachusetts Clean Energy Industry Report released Oct. 18, the commonwealth boasts 4,909 clean energy companies that employ an estimated 64,000 people. The report also noted that these clean energy companies saw a 6.7 percent increase in jobs from July 2010 to July 2011. It is projected that for the calendar year from July 2011 to July 2012, employment numbers will increase 15.2 percent.
Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr., who chairs the Mass Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) Board of Directors, commented on the findings.
“The data reported by MassCEC today is good news for the Massachusetts economy and our environment,” Sullivan said. “Through Governor Patrick's vision and supported by MassCEC's innovative programs, the commonwealth has become fertile ground for growing a clean energy future and we are well on our way.”
Since Gov. Deval Patrick took office in 2006, the use of solar energy has increased 30-fold, from 3.5 megawatts (installed or under contract) to the current 100+ megawatts. During the same time, wind power has increased from 3.2 megawatts to the current 40+ megawatts with another 100 megawatts proposed or being constructed.
Local clean-energy companies include: Hands on Hydro and Northern Energy Services Inc. in Northborough, Mistubishi Electric in Southborough and New England Breeze in Hudson. According to Communications Manager for MassCEC Kate Plourd, New England Breeze is involved in the Solarize Mass program and “doing some really great work helping homeowners go solar.”
“Thanks to our investments in this growing industry, Massachusetts is now a national leader in clean energy,” Patrick said. “Clean Energy Week showcases the commonwealth's vibrant clean-energy sector that will fuel our economy and protect our environment well into the future.”
To learn more about the MCEC and “join the innovation revolution,” visit http://www.masscec.com/.