This week, a groundbreaking national tri-trade solar agreement was signed by the presidents of three influential unions, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, the Laborers International Union of North America, and the International Union of Operating Engineers. The purpose of this agreement is to streamline the construction of utility-scale solar projects across the United States (excluding California), paving the way for easier collaboration between developers, contractors, and unions in the pursuit of renewable energy generation.
Achieving Leadership in the Solar Power Industry
The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers’ President, Kenneth W. Cooper, believes that this agreement solidifies the union’s leadership role in the utility-scale solar power industry. He states, “The members of our three unions have been key to the growth of utility-scale solar power for years now, and this agreement solidifies our role as leaders in this industry.” Cooper emphasizes that the agreement will not only simplify the process of integrating large-scale solar projects into the grid but also ensures their timely completion and adherence to budgetary constraints by leveraging the expertise of skilled trade workers.
Paving the Way for Collaboration
One of the primary advantages of this agreement is that it clearly outlines the responsibilities of each union when it comes to solar projects. This clarity facilitates easier partnerships between organized labor and solar developers, removing potential obstacles and inefficiencies. With the rapid expansion of the renewable energy sector, this agreement will play a crucial role in bolstering construction efforts, creating a strong foundation for a cleaner energy future.
Commitment to Clean Energy Infrastructure
In light of recent significant investments in clean-energy infrastructure and technology in the United States, the president of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers reaffirms the unions’ commitment to constructing these projects with skilled, union labor. Cooper states, “The Bipartisan Infrastructure Act and the Inflation Reduction Act represent the largest investment in clean-energy infrastructure and technology in our nation’s history, and our three unions are committed to building it with skilled, union labor.” The tri-trade solar agreement, therefore, not only aligns with the nation’s ambitious sustainability goals but also ensures that green jobs remain stable and prosperous for the foreseeable future.
Courtesy of The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. IBEW represents approximately 820,000 members and retirees who work in a wide variety of fields, including construction, utilities, manufacturing, telecommunications, broadcasting, railroads, and government.
