The renewable energy sector in the East of England could reach £3.6bn in the next 12 years - and see its workforce rise by 46%, according to a new report.
The Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology’s (REA) state of the industry report - entitled REview23 - predicts the industry in this region could grow by £1.8bn - doubling its current worth.
In 2021-2022 the region's renewable and clean tech sector employed 11,187 people - but REA predicts 16,365 people will be employed in the sector by 2035 - a 46% rise.
Biomass is playing a large role in the sector within the region, accounting for nearly a third of all renewable jobs - or 3,026 people, the study - sponsored by energy giant Drax - found.
Trade association REA and consultants Innovas used employment models and analysis of the government’s current renewables policy to make their projections.
REA called on government to create "a more positive policy environment" for the renewables and clean energy sector. This would result in stronger economic growth in East of England and across the country, it said.
The renewables industry is currently on track to support more than 210,000 UK jobs by 2035, with the market value doubling from 2022 at £23bn to £46bn by 2035, the report said.
However, political uncertainty and rolling back on green policies meant that renewable developers are hurting, and international investment risks going elsewhere, the authors warned.
REA chief executive Dr Nina Skorupska said: “REview23 showcases the potential of the renewable energy and clean technology sector for East of England.
“We are projecting thousands of new jobs and hundreds of millions of pounds being added by the sector in East of England, and these figures could be even greater should the government deliver the right support.
"Of course, these numbers are by no means guaranteed, and if the government continues to provide patchy and unreliable policy.
“We are clear, tackling climate change and boosting our economy is not an ‘either-or’ decision. In fact, it goes hand in hand. I would urge the government to recognise the opportunities on offer for East of England and finally match their warm words with action.”
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