A study of Ohio’s wind and solar energy supply chain from the Environmental Law and Policy Center showed Wednesday there are 106 companies in the state doing business with the wind power industry, and 63 companies are part of the solar energy supply chain.
“Wind and solar power has created thousands of good jobs across Ohio,” said Howard Learner, the center’s executive director. “Longstanding manufacturing companies are retooling to supply the growing clean energy market and new businesses are expanding. Smart policies can continue that growth.”
The report said wind industry suppliers employ about 7,500 people in Ohio and, according to the Ohio Department of Development, solar manufacturing has created over 1,500 jobs statewide.
The report said a proposed strong federal renewable energy standard would help grow the local economy by increasing Ohio’s export opportunities for both wind power and manufactured wind turbine components and professional services.