MIT Study Maps U.S. Job Vulnerabilities in Energy Transition

A comprehensive county-by-county analysis reveals the varied impact of moving towards renewable energy on jobs across the U.S., highlighting areas beyond traditional fossil fuel sectors.

• MIT researchers have conducted a detailed analysis showing how the transition to renewable energy affects jobs across the U.S., with a focus on areas reliant on fossil fuels and heavy manufacturing.
• The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, examines employment carbon footprints to identify regions most vulnerable to economic shifts.
• Findings suggest that areas known for fossil-fuel production as well as industrial regions in the Great Plains and Midwest could see significant employment changes.
• The Inflation Reduction Act, aimed at easing the transition, may not cover all areas identified by the study as vulnerable, indicating a need for more targeted support.
• Researchers emphasize the importance of considering economy-wide impacts and tailoring policies to support communities through the energy transition.

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