The Biden Administration developed the Build Back Better plan to support sustainable development and employment opportunities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of Americans lost their jobs. The government allocated trillions of dollars to green funding, enhancing job security and ecological conservation efforts.
The Electric Grid
The administration plans on increasing the electric grid’s sustainability. It hopes to source 100% of its energy from renewable sources, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. The overarching goal of the Build Back Better plan is to reduce surface and atmospheric pollution.
We can achieve that goal by expanding renewable energy production. America began harvesting offshore wind power in 2017 and is planning on further increasing development. Professionals can use wind-derived electricity to support the emission-free electric grid and improve employment rates.
The Need for Steel Workers
Expanding offshore wind power production requires a diverse set of employees. Steelworkers are an essential part of the turbine production team, helping companies access efficient systems. Up to 79% of a wind turbine is made of steel, increasing the demand for capable manufacturers.
America’s ongoing carbon-neutrality goals expand the demand for turbines and will create more jobs over time. Maryland recently announced a plan to develop a larger offshore wind power project by adding 22 new turbines. The state plans on opening and using a steel manufacturing facility outside Baltimore to support the project.
The new offshore wind farm will create 3,500 new construction jobs, many supporting steel production. Professionals predict 500 of the positions will remain permanent after construction is complete. Steel-related positions include welding, fabrication, and operating machinery and cranes.
Professionals use steel to create turbine blades, bases, towers, and more. The steel jobs in wind power production are high-paying and require specific skill sets. Creating steel and turbines in the U.S could produce more secure positions, improving national competitiveness and workforce stability.
Building a Domestic Supply Chain
New Jersey is one of a few states taking the initiative and establishing a domestic steel-based supply chain for the wind power sector. The state connected with Ørsted and a German manufacturing company, building a production facility for turbines. When we source our steel from the U.S., we can expand employment opportunities.
The state allocated $250 million to the project, displaying its commitment to domestic steel production. Large portions of government funding also represent a demand for a green job market, achieving atmospheric conservation and job security.
America produces nearly 87.9 million metric tons of steel annually. Expanding wind power production increases the demand for domestic steel supplies. The influx in manufacturing demands improves job security for current steelworkers.
It also increases the need for more production professionals. Over time, domestic turbine production may lower the unemployment rate.
The Administration’s Support
The Biden Administration specifically outlined plans to expand steel’s position in the wind power sector through the Build Back Better agenda. It announced the expansion of offshore wind energy production, preserving protected lands while meeting national energy demands. America can achieve the goal by increasing turbine manufacturing efforts.
The government is converting an old shipyard in Texas into a production facility. Workers from West Virginia and Alabama are producing 10,000 tons of steel to support the development. The Biden Administration plans on continuing to source materials from American firms. Eventually, centers like these may develop other related materials and technologies from steel, keeping employment rates high.
The Biden Administration established a wind power goal of creating 30 gigawatts of offshore energy by 2030. The plan will create 44,000 new jobs. Professionals also predict the administration’s carbon-neutrality goal will produce 600,000 employment opportunities in the wind sector alone by 2050.
Employment of Tomorrow
Energy professionals can expect a mass transition away from fossil fuels towards renewable resources. The shift will develop various employment opportunities extending beyond steel production.
The U.S. government is heavily relying on the shift towards renewable energies to support job security following the pandemic. When we follow their production goals, many citizens will receive unemployment from the renewable energy sector.
Jane Marsh works as the founder and editor-in-chief of Environment.co where she covers environmental news and sustainable living tips.
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