Focus on Renewable Energy May Be One Bright Spot in Today's Job Market

HOUSTON, Oct. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2011 jobs market has certainly left much to be desired for many Americans.  Rising jobless reports and a bleak economic forecast can make finding a career that feeds a person's passion and their wallet seem beyond reach.  However, for those committed to the environment, green living and sustainability, the outlook may be brighter than you might think, according to MXenergy, a Constellation company and leading energy provider.

"The focus on renewable and clean energy and sustainability has led to tremendous growth in these industries over the past several years," says Marjorie Kass, MXenergy managing director of marketing.  "All indications are that growth is expected to continue which will mean the need for trained, experienced personnel."

According to the Rocky Mountain Institute, U.S. solar photovoltaic installation increased 64 percent between 2005 and 2010.  The institute estimates that the U.S. already has more than 90,000 direct or indirect jobs in the manufacturing and installation of solar panels, with another 85,000 jobs in wind power.

Previously solar panel installation was too cost prohibitive for most homeowners.  However many energy providers, including MXenergy's parent company Constellation Energy, are now launching residential solar panel leasing programs making the transition to solar financially attainable to many homeowners for the first time.    

"The increase in affordability and attainability through these programs is a benefit not only to homeowners but also to workers," continues Kass.  "As more people take advantage of solar leasing programs the need for licensed installers will increase as well."

The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) offers certification programs in solar heating, small wind and photovoltaic system installation.  Independent solar technician training programs can range between $1500 and $4000 and can be completed in as little as one week.

Other "green" job categories anticipating growth are Green Building, with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification, Green Engineering, Wind Turbine Machinist, Home Energy Auditors and the area of Eco-Tourism.  The Green Careers Guide, www.greencareersguide.com, offers a comprehensive listing of current environmentally focused employment opportunities.

About MXenergy

MXenergy, a Constellation company, is one of the fastest growing retail natural gas and electricity suppliers in North America, serving approximately 500,000 customers in 41 utility territories in the United States and Canada. For over 11 years, the company has provided millions of customers with a choice in how they purchase energy to run their homes and businesses.  Founded in 1999 to provide natural gas and electricity to consumers in deregulated energy markets, MXenergy helps residential customers and small business owners control their energy bills by providing both fixed and variable rate plans. MXenergy is committed to best practices in environmental conservation, supporting local communities through various outreach programs and is a member of the Chicago Climate Exchange.  For more information about MXenergy please visit www.mxenergy.com.

About Constellation Energy

Constellation Energy is a leading competitive supplier of power, natural gas and energy products and services for homes and businesses across the continental United States. It owns a diversified fleet of generating units, totaling approximately 12,000 megawatts of generating capacity, and is a leading advocate for clean, environmentally sustainable energy sources, such as solar power and nuclear energy. The company delivers electricity and natural gas through the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE), its regulated utility in Central Maryland. A FORTUNE 500 company headquartered in Baltimore, Constellation Energy had revenues of $14.3 billion in 2010.

SOURCE MXenergy