Observers agree that there is potential to create jobs in the transition from fossil fuels to efficiency and renewables, but there is wide variation in what these observers claim constitutes a green job. Politicians and political activists have picked up on the possibility of job creation and are using it to promote policy and legislation. Analysts are trying to figure out whether and what kinds of jobs will be created. And you’re wondering, what’s the connection with efficiency programs?

Adele Ferranti, a program manager from NYSERDA, gave an overview of their green collar jobs initiative at the CEE-ACEEE Market Transformation Symposium. As a public benefit corporation charged with finding solutions to New York’s energy and environmental challenges, workforce training fit into the big picture. By preparing a workforce to perform energy audits, seal and insulate, meet Quality Installation standards, and become capable in other energy efficiency jobs, NYSERDA programs could meet the demand for these services.

NYSERDA initially chose to work with Hudson Valley Community College, which is headquartered in Troy, but could offer classes at a number of locations around the state. At a growing number of learning centers, the Building Performance Institute has developed curriculum with the community college to teach skills useful for single family homes, multifamily dwellings, and in installing geothermal, solar, and wind renewables. Certificates are offered in a variety of areas including HERS rating and Home Performance Sales and Marketing. NYSERDA offers students in the systems benefits area a partial or full tuition reimbursement on successful completion of the course.

More than 750 students have received certificates to date.

Because NYSERDA is intimately involved with the market for these job skills, they are in the position of identifying gaps and rolling out new training programs. In addition, they will continue to improve on course delivery, for example, by offering distance learning over the Internet and including more video presentations, especially for critical skills such as combustion testing.

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