The U.S. solar industry achieved a 6% increase in employment in 2023, reaching a record total of 279,447 jobs, as reported by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council's National Solar Jobs Census. This growth is attributed to rising demand for clean energy from corporations and governments, bolstered by federal incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act. The utility-scale solar sector saw a notable increase of 1,888 jobs, while the residential market added 5,945 jobs, though this growth was slower compared to previous years due to challenges like high interest rates. Despite the positive trends, the report warns of potential stagnation in solar job growth for 2024, particularly in residential installations and utility-scale projects facing grid connection issues and labor shortages. Additionally, union representation in the solar workforce rose to 13.4%, reflecting a commitment to a diverse and skilled workforce. Overall, the solar industry remains a crucial component of the U.S. transition to carbon-free energy.