The demand for renewable energy continues to grow.

By the end of 2024, around one-third of the world’s electricity is expected to come from renewable energy sources. Of the renewables, solar energy will continue to dominate the energy market and is likely to experience a 60% growth.

Other renewable energy sources like hydropower, offshore wind and biofuels will follow a similar trend.

Thanks to the growing environmental concern and significantly lower production costs, many businesses are adopting renewable energy.

Moreover, the increased need for a quick transition to clean energy allows significant developments in the renewable energy sector.

Today, more than ever, businesses and industries are opting for green energy alternatives to reduce carbon emissions, improve the environment and lower energy costs.

Many major renewable energy trends will dominate the industry in 2023. From integrating energy-efficient solutions to digitalization, using artificial intelligence and more, a lot is happening in the renewable energy sector.

While renewable energy sources like wind, solar and hydroelectricity have been around for quite some time, recent developments, thanks to modern technology, have allowed for the emergence of some of the most promising trends in the industry. Moreover, there’s an advent of relatively newer areas of research in the renewable sector, which include tidal energy and energy from green hydrogen.

Let’s check out the top nine renewable energy trends in 2023.

#1. The Unfolding of State-of-the-Art Photovoltaics (PV)

While solar energy has been around for many years, and an increasing number of commercial and residential energy users are switching to solar, the emergence of state-of-the-art photovoltaics is new.

Solar energy-producing companies are now integrating photovoltaics (PV) with various aspects of the surroundings. The integration aims at reducing the need for additional space.

Moreover, as photovoltaics are integrated, agricvoltaics and floatovoltaics appear as a logical trend. These innovations allow businesses to develop more flexible, lightweight, cost-effective and environment-friendly energy solutions.

Renewable energy businesses are developing enhanced technologies to upgrade and modernize photovoltaics performance. They now rely on the use of lenses and mirrors to harness solar power using mirrors and lenses.

Moreover, the upgradation in the materials used for photovoltaics also increases energy conversion manifolds.

These innovative trends are maximizing the efficiency and production of renewable energy. Moreover, they are also promoting efficient resource utilization, sustainable energy production practices and the use of alternate materials to enhance energy output.

In the United States, several states now have specific policies that encourage using renewable energy sources through multiple channels. For example, individuals who cannot install solar panels in their homes can take advantage of community solar farms.

These solar farms are specific areas that allow for the installation of solar panels that can benefit subscribers without the need for installing solar panels on their property.

As a result, it makes access to renewable energy more feasible for individuals with shaded roofs, multi-family households and low to moderate-income families.

The states offering community solar farms include Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Colorado, Minnesota, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. However, some states like Virginia, New Mexico, and Hawaii have recently allowed for laws regarding community solar farms.

In 2023, we can expect solar energy developers to continue incorporating innovative renewable energy solutions on community solar farms. For example, the plantation of wildflowers or crops at community solar farms improves efficient space utilization and allows for sustainable agrivoltaics practices.

While we can also expect some resistance from communities, the trend will likely continue this year and beyond.

#2. Upgraded Renewable Energy Storage Solutions

One of the other top renewable energy trends in 2023 is the upgraded renewable energy storage solutions.

The most significant concern with renewable energy generation has been storage. There were numerous challenges when it came to storing excess renewable energy.

However, over the years, we have seen continuous development, which resulted in upgraded renewable energy storage solutions.

The emergence of Distributed Energy Storage Systems (DESS) limits the production of renewable energy and hence, helps overcome storage challenges.

Based on business and residential clients’ needs, energy solutions now offer a wide range of battery and battery-less energy storage solutions with additional convenience features like improved energy density and lightweight.

Moreover, the upgraded renewable energy storage solutions allow the conversion of excess energy into other energy forms, such as methane or heat, for convenient storage. These converted energy sources can be reconverted for effective utilization.  

#3. Innovations to Harness the Power of Waves, Currents and Tides

Hydropower is one of the largest and oldest sources of renewable energy production.

However, over the years, energy production businesses have been moving away from hydroelectric dams to harness the power of other water elements such as tides, currents and waves.

Unlike wind and solar energy, which are heavily dependent on air movement, hydro energy is more reliable and predictable. Moreover, energy producers don’t have to rely solely on hydroelectric dams to harness the power of waves, currents and tides. Instead, they can access these power resources from the lakes, oceans and seas.

The innovations in sources of renewable energy that focus on collecting energy more efficiently continue to be a top renewable energy trend in 2023.  

An example is ocean thermal energy conversion (OETC) which produces energy by capitalizing on the variation in temperatures between the oceanic surface and deep water.

Many small businesses are now emerging to harness this form of energy. While the volume at this point is quite low, however, the trend still has to go a long way.

#4. Reliance on Artificial Intelligence and Use of Data for Decision-Making and Trend Analysis

The energy production business is one of the most complex infrastructures. Using energy grids for energy production, storage, and transmission often requires urgent real-time decision-making.

While humans have been doing so for a long time, one of the most recent renewable energy trends in 2023 is incorporating artificial intelligence and the use of data analytics to speed up the decision-making process.

Apart from decision-making involving grid management, artificial intelligence is also used in the renewable energy industry to identify trends. AI and the use of data can help assess and forecast energy consumption. Moreover, it can also assist in predicting the maintenance needs of renewable energy sources.

Reliance on artificial intelligence and data also allows for various other aspects of improving the renewable energy model. With recent innovations, the improvement in technology has enabled energy businesses to use AI and data analytics to upgrade their design and performance.

As the trend continues, we can look forward to some more interesting developments in the field of renewable energy, thanks to the reliance on AI and data analytics.  

#5. Innovations in Offshore Wind Energy Production

Humans have capitalized on wind energy for ages. The earliest traces of utilizing the power of wind can be dated back to thousands of years.

However, one of the top renewable energy trends in 2023 is the recent offshore wind energy production innovations.

Today, energy production businesses are evolving technology to devise the latest offshore wind turbines. These turbines will help lower the demand for onshore wind energy. Moreover, this recent trend will also provide opportunities for integrating other water-based renewable energy production sources, such as floatovoltaics. Integration of other water-based renewable energy sources will further lower the demand for land-based renewable energy sources.

#6. The Use of Liquid Biofuels in Vehicles

Biofuels rely on the use of biomass. Unlike other renewable energy forms that do not quickly convert into other energy sources, biomass can convert into liquid fuels.

The two most common types of biofuels that are commonly used today are biodiesel and ethanol.

Liquid biofuels have been meeting the demands of the transportation industry for quite some time. However, the production of biofuels is still limited. The restricted biofuel production cannot suffice the ever-growing demand of the transportation industry, which is why there is no possibility of completely switching over from the use of fossil fuels.

However, one of the latest renewable energy trends in 2023 that we can look forward to is improving the quality of liquid biofuels.

With innovative technology, liquid biofuels that compare with gasoline in quality are blended directly to be used in vehicles.

To attain that level of quality, energy businesses are now heavily investing in upgradation and improving biofuel processes.

As businesses strive to achieve an improved quality of liquid biofuels through integrating upgradation techniques and processes, we can look forward to reduced reliance on fossil fuels in future.

#7. Focus on Grid Integration

Over the last few years, an immense focus has been on understanding complex power grids. The idea is that an enhanced understanding of grid functionality will allow energy businesses to better meet the ever-increasing energy demand.

That’s where grid integration comes into play.

The broader idea behind grid integration is to develop efficient solutions using technology to upgrade existing power systems. The use of technology allows for more effective distribution, transmission, and stabilization of renewable energy.

While grid integration has been an area of focus in renewable energy for quite some time, it has emerged as one of the renewable energy trends in 2023. This year, we observed the capitalization of energy-efficient, grid-electronic technologies like Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Gallium Nitride (GaN).

With the use of these technologies, we can expect energy businesses to conveniently overcome many of the challenges experienced in the past, such as voltage and frequency fluctuations.  

While the future of grid integration seems promising, it still remains one of the most challenging domains of renewable energy transmission and distribution.  

#8. Involvement of Robotics in the Renewable Energy Sector

Gone are the days when everything was done by humans.

Today, the use of robotics is involved in almost every business to improve the efficiency of production and processes, and the renewable energy sector isn’t an exception.

Since process efficiency has remained a compromised area in the renewable energy business, the use of robotics allows for accurate and optimal resource utilization by overcoming this challenge.

For example, the automation of equipment involved in the production and distribution of renewable energy expedites the production and distribution processes. Similarly, the involvement of robotics in other renewable energy domains, like solar panels, allows for maximum energy conversation as the panels can orient themselves to optimize energy conversion.

These and many more are examples of the involvement of robotics in the renewable energy sector, which can turn out to be one of the most promising renewable energy trends this year and beyond.

#9. Shift to Green Hydrogen

Hydrogen gas is a unique power source that can be used to generate electricity, fuel vehicles and power homes and industries.

And while it is a relatively environmentally friendly fuel choice that produces near-zero greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Most hydrogen is derived from non-renewable sources. Hence, the hydrogen gas that’s primarily used today is known as grey or brown hydrogen.

One of the most recent renewable energy trends in 2023 is the shift from grey or brown hydrogen to green hydrogen.

The developments in renewable energy have allowed for the generation of hydrogen gas using renewable resources like water. The process involves splitting water into oxygen and hydrogen gas which can then be used to fuel energy needs.

While it’s a clean energy source, there are still several roadblocks in producing green hydrogen. However, with the recent developments, we can look forward to improving green hydrogen production, transportation, storage and distribution.

Adapt the Latest Renewable Energy Trends in 2023

Innovations in renewable energy trends cannot go unnoticed now. To overcome the devastating effects of climatic change, businesses are now extensively focused towards producing and using clean and sustainable energy.

With improvements in hardware such as state-of-the-art photovoltaics and offshore wind energy production to reliance on artificial intelligence and data analytics, renewable energy production, storage, and distribution have come a long way.

While there are still several challenges that hamper the complete transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, however, the recent trends look quite promising.

However, one particular challenge that green energy companies may experience is the recruitment of the right talent for their business.

If you’re a responsible energy company looking forward to recruiting talent that can help your business navigate through the ever-changing renewable energy landscape, Whitham Group can assist.

We are a leading renewable energy recruitment company committed to helping businesses attract and retain top talent in various business environments.

So, what are you waiting for?

Contact our team of experts today as We Find Talent That’s Off the Grid ™.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted various sectors and the global economy. The renewable energy sector has not been spared, and its operations have been affected in multiple ways. This blog will delve into the effects of COVID-19 on the renewable energy sector, including both the positive and negative impacts.

The Negative Impact of COVID-19 on the Renewable Energy Sector

The COVID-19 pandemic has had several negative impacts on the renewable energy sector. The following are some of the effects:

1. Disruption of Supply Chains

The renewable energy sector relies heavily on international supply chains to produce its equipment. The closure of borders and restrictions on movement due to the pandemic has disrupted these supply chains. As a result, equipment availability has needed to be improved, leading to project delays.

2. Reduced Funding

The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the global economy, reducing funding for renewable energy projects. Many investors have reduced their investments in the sector due to the economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic. Additionally, many governments have diverted their resources toward fighting the pandemic, reducing their investments in renewable energy projects.

3. Reduced Demand for Energy

The pandemic has reduced energy demand due to the lockdown measures put in place to contain its spread. Many businesses and industries have closed down, leading to reduced energy consumption. This demand reduction has affected the profitability of renewable energy projects, as they rely on stable energy demand.

4. Reduced Employment Opportunities

The pandemic has hit the renewable energy sector hard, leading to reduced employment opportunities. Many companies have had to lay off workers or reduce their working hours to stay afloat. It has led to increased unemployment rates in the sector, affecting the livelihoods of many people.

5. Delayed Construction of Renewable Energy Projects 

The pandemic has caused delays in the construction of renewable energy projects, as social distancing requirements have slowed the work on construction sites. These delays can lead to increased costs and postponed revenue generation.

6. Reduced Efficiency of Renewable Energy Systems

Due to the pandemic, many renewable energy systems have had reduced efficiency due to decreased maintenance and upkeep. It can lead to decreased energy output and increased maintenance costs in the long term.

7. Disrupted International Trade

Many renewable energy projects rely on international trade to obtain the necessary components and equipment. However, the pandemic has disrupted international trade, causing supply chain disruptions and increased costs.

8. Increased Regulatory Uncertainty

The pandemic has caused uncertainty in the regulatory environment as governments have focused on addressing the public health crisis. Such regulatory uncertainty can make it difficult for renewable energy projects to plan and execute their operations effectively.

The Positive Impact of COVID-19 on the Renewable Energy Sector

Despite the negative impacts, the COVID-19 pandemic has positively affected the renewable energy sector. The following are some of the positive impacts:

1. Increased Government Support

Governments worldwide have recognized the importance of renewable energy in reducing carbon emissions and achieving their climate change targets. The pandemic has led to increased government support for renewable energy projects to stimulate the economy and create jobs.

2. Increased Investment in Green Technologies

The pandemic has increased investment in green technologies, including renewable energy. Many investors have recognized the importance of investing in clean energy to build a sustainable future. It has led to increased funding for renewable energy projects, despite the economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic.

3. Increased Awareness of the Importance of Renewable Energy

COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of renewable energy in achieving a sustainable future. Many individuals have become more aware of the importance of reducing carbon emissions and renewable energy’s role in achieving this goal. This increased awareness has led to increased support for renewable energy projects.

4. Increased Adoption of Renewable Energy

The pandemic has led to increased adoption of renewable energy by many individuals and businesses. Many individuals have become more conscious of their energy consumption, increasing the use of green energy sources such as solar and wind power. Additionally, many businesses have recognized the cost-saving benefits of renewable energy and have adopted it to reduce operational costs.

5. Increased Innovation

The pandemic has spurred innovation in the renewable energy sector as companies seek new ways to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and improve the reliability of renewable energy systems. This innovation can lead to new technological breakthroughs that will help to accelerate the adoption of renewable energy.

6. Increased Research and Development

The pandemic has led to increased funding for research and development in the renewable energy sector, as governments and private investors recognize the importance of developing new technologies to address the global climate crisis.

7. Increased Collaboration

The pandemic has led to increased collaboration between businesses, and other stakeholders in the renewable energy sector. This collaboration can lead to the development of more effective policies and strategies for promoting renewable energy.

8. Increased Resilience

The pandemic has highlighted the importance of building resilience in energy systems. Renewable energy systems are more resilient than traditional fossil fuel-based systems, as they are less vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and price volatility.

9. Reduced Air Pollution

The pandemic has reduced air pollution, as many countries have implemented lockdown measures that have reduced transportation and industrial activity. This reduction in air pollution has highlighted the potential benefits of transitioning to renewable energy sources, which can help reduce energy production’s environmental impact.

To Sum Up

COVID-19 has negatively and positively affected the renewable energy sector. While the pandemic has caused delays, reduced access to financing, and increased uncertainty, it has also spurred innovation, collaboration, and resilience in the industry.

At Whitham Group, we find talent that’s off the grid™. We recognize the importance of finding talent to help drive the transition to renewable energy, and specialize in finding individuals that are “off the grid,” meaning they possess unique skills and experience that make them valuable assets to companies in the renewable energy sector. With our expertise in recruiting and talent acquisition, we can help companies find the talent they need to succeed in this evolving industry. Contact us right away to learn how we can help you..

The demand for renewable energy is increasing, and so is the popularity of renewable energy sources.

Renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, hydropower, biomass, and geothermal, are replenished naturally and are not depleted through use. Currently, 30% of the world’s electricity is produced from these sources. Moreover, 65% of the countries still use fossil fuels to produce electricity, while 31% use renewable sources. The remaining 4% use nuclear energy. This increase in the use of multiple renewable sources has made people curious. If you’re one of them, continue reading.

Let’s talk a closer look at each of these sources to understand their significance.

Wind Power

Wind is the largest source of renewable energy production in the country. It produces 9.2% of electricity through 7000 wind turbines. They convert wind energy into electricity. These wind turbines can be deployed in both onshore and offshore locations.

However, the adoption of wind power is affected by factors such as changing weather conditions. Wind turbines require consistent wind speeds to generate electricity, which can be an issue in areas with unpredictable weather. Moreover, they cause noise pollution and are a threat to birds.

The wind power sector is responsible for creating more than 120,000 jobs in the country. The number of employment opportunities in wind power production can increase by 44% over the next decade. Therefore, energy industry recruiters must prepare to fulfill this demand.

Hydropower

Hydropower is one of the oldest forms of renewable energy and the second-largest source of renewable electricity. It harnesses the energy of fast-flowing tidal waves to generate electricity. Through the creation of dams, the adoption of hydropower can help reduce the reliance on fossil fuels.

However, creating hydropower plants is a challenge. They require a specific type of geography and topography to function efficiently, which limits production. Moreover, the creation of dams can have significant effects on ecosystems. It can alter river flows, harm aquatic life and disrupt habitats. Dams and hydropower turbines also have high implementation and maintenance costs.

While there are 300,000 employees in the hydropower sector, it’s expected to create 1.4 million jobs by 2025. Renewable energy recruiters will have to look for skilled project developers, manufacturing workers, and facility managers.

Solar Energy

Solar energy involves using sunlight and solar technologies to make electricity by converting the energy from the sun through photovoltaic (PV) panels. While it was traditionally costly to implement, it is becoming increasingly affordable with technological advancement.

It’s the third most common renewable source of electricity production. However, the industry is facing storage challenges as storage technologies are limited, and the initial cost of their development is high. Moreover, the weather is unpredictable, and installing solar panels in an area with limited sunlight is ineffective.

The solar energy sector employs 4.3 million workers as of 2021 and is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country.

Biomass Energy

Biomass energy refers to generating energy from living things. It involves burning organic matter, such as wood or agricultural waste, to generate electricity. The US exported approximately 8 million tons of wood fuel pellets in 2021, making it a net exporter of biomass energy. However, there is an ongoing debate about its sustainability.

There is an environmental concern about deforestation associated with biomass energy. Environmentalists believe it can produce carbon dioxide emissions like burning fossil fuels. Moreover, it requires significant land use, which can compete with the need for agricultural production and natural habitats.

Responsible for creating 2.4 million jobs in 2021, the sector has the potential to grow if energy production can be achieved sustainably.

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy uses the heat within the earth to generate electricity. The temperature of the earth’s inner core is quite hot and the hot water reservoirs within the earth’s surface are used to generate electricity.

However, it’s limited by factors such as the availability of suitable locations, as geothermal resources are available in certain areas. There are also high upfront costs of installing geothermal systems, power plants, and drilling wells. Moreover, the sector is heavily dependent on regulatory policies and government incentives, such as tax credits, grants, and loans.  

This source is relatively less popular than other sources of renewable energy, as it employs 196,000 workers worldwide as of 2021, most of them being in China.

The Future of Renewable Energy

There is significant potential for renewable energy sources in meeting the world’s energy needs. In fact, it is predicted to supply 65% of the world’s energy by 2030.

With the development of technology, the adoption of renewable energy sources is likely to grow as costs will continue to decrease. However, the development of energy storage technologies will be essential for ensuring that the industry can achieve this goal and maintain a stable supply.

The Need for Skilled Workers

As the industry continues to grow, the limited availability of skilled workers can be a risk to its expansion. Renewable energy recruitment companies will have to search for exceptional talent that can help the industry progress.

If your renewable energy company is looking for engineers, developers, and other renewable energy workers, we can help. We are a renewable energy executive search firm that specializes in finding skilled, professional, and top renewable industry talent for your company. Our renewable energy recruiters can support your sustainability goal by providing you with people who can achieve your business objectives.

Contact us now for a consultation, and let us help you find suitable candidates for your company.

The world faces an unprecedented climate crisis requiring urgent and sustained action. One of the most effective ways to tackle this crisis is by transitioning to clean energy sources. In the US, the government has set ambitious goals for clean energy adoption, which presents an opportunity for entrepreneurs to start a clean energy company. However, starting a clean energy company is not easy, and several factors must be considered before taking the plunge.

Whitham Group has experienced renewable energy recruiters that find talented individuals for the progress of this industry through our holistic recruitment process. We have seen many companies trying to break into the increasingly competitive industry, but while some manage, others don’t.

Types of Clean Energy Companies

Clean energy companies can be broadly categorized into renewable energy and energy efficiency companies. Renewable energy companies generate energy from renewable sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, and hydroelectric power. These renewable energy resources account for 12.4% of primary energy consumption in the US.

On the other hand, energy efficiency companies focus on reducing energy consumption by implementing energy-efficient solutions. These can include LED lighting, smart thermostats, and insulation. Both types of companies are essential for achieving a sustainable energy future.

Financing Options

Starting a clean energy company requires significant upfront capital investment. However, there are several financing options available to entrepreneurs. One of the most popular options is venture capital funding, where investors provide capital in exchange for equity in the company. Clean energy startups attracted a $340 million investment in 2020.

Securing financing is one of the biggest challenges in starting a clean energy company. While venture capital funding is a popular option, it can be difficult to obtain without a proven track record of success.

Another financing option is government grants and incentives, which can help reduce the financial burden of starting a clean energy company. The US Department of Energy offers several grant programs, including the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, which provides funding for innovative clean energy technologies.

Another option for financing a clean energy company is crowdfunding. Crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo have become popular among clean energy startups, as they provide a way for entrepreneurs to raise funds from a large number of people. Crowdfunding can also be an effective marketing tool, as it helps to generate buzz and attract media attention.

Regulatory Requirements

Starting a clean energy company in the US requires compliance with various regulatory requirements. The regulatory landscape for clean energy companies is constantly evolving, and staying up to date with the latest regulations is essential. Some of the key regulations for clean energy companies include the following:

1. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Regulations

The EPA regulates the emissions of greenhouse gases, which are a significant contributor to climate change. Clean energy companies must comply with EPA regulations to reduce their environmental impact.

2. State-Level Regulations

Each state has its own regulations for clean energy companies, including incentives and tax credits, such as the CSI-Thermal Program in California. It is important to research the regulations in the state where you plan to start your company.

3. Federal Tax Credits

The federal government offers tax credits for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. These tax credits can help reduce the financial burden of starting a clean energy company.

Marketing and Sales

Marketing and sales are essential for the success of any business, including clean energy companies. Identifying your target market and developing a marketing strategy that resonates with them is important.

For renewable energy companies, the target market is typically businesses and households that want to reduce their carbon footprint. On the other hand, energy efficiency companies target businesses and households that want to reduce their energy bills. Social media and content marketing can be effective tools for reaching potential customers.

Finding Suitable Employees

Finding suitable employees is one of the most crucial aspects of starting a clean energy company in the US. The success of any business relies heavily on the quality of its workforce, and this is particularly true in the fast-growing and dynamic clean energy industry.

One effective way to find suitable employees for a clean energy company is to work with energy industry recruiters. These specialized recruiters have extensive experience and networks in the clean energy industry and can help businesses identify and hire the best candidates for their needs. They can also find candidates among passive job seekers, that account for 73% of candidates.

In addition to working with executive recruiters, entrepreneurs can also leverage social media and networking to find suitable employees. Platforms such as LinkedIn and Twitter are powerful tools for reaching potential candidates and building relationships with industry professionals.

However, regardless of the hiring approach, providing them with ongoing training and development opportunities is important. The clean energy industry is constantly evolving, and employees must stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends.

Looking For Talent In The Energy Sector?

Starting a clean energy company in the US requires significant upfront capital investment, compliance with regulatory requirements, and effective marketing and sales strategies. However, the potential benefits of starting a clean energy company are enormous. But to succeed, you’ll need good employees; this is where we can help.

The Whitham Group is an energy recruitment agency that specializes in finding talented individuals for renewable energy companies, even if they are not actively seeking employment.

Using our extensive experience and comprehensive recruitment process, we have successfully placed many skilled individuals in various positions within the industry. Our energy industry recruiters are adept at identifying candidates with the skills and potential for growth that companies are looking for.

If you are seeking exceptional talent in the renewable energy sector, reach out to our executive recruiters today to find candidates that meet your specific requirements.