Governor Perdue Thinks Green Is The New Gold For N.C.

Gov. Bev Perdue Says N.C. Is A Great Place For Green Jobs

By Stephanie Johnson

A new Pew Center report titled “The Clean Energy Economy: Repowering jobs, businesses, and investments across America”, will be supporting Gov. Bev Perdue’s green energy plan, which includes making green energy jobs a major part of the North Carolina economy.

The report listed North Carolina as one of the top 12 states in growing green energy jobs.   This information was gathered by tracking the growth and progress of green jobs in the state over a period of time.  In 2007 green energy jobs employed a total of 17,000 people in North Carolina.  Governor Perdue stated in order to make this a strong effort North Carolina must work on building the strengths that will attract green companies such as “a well-trained, educated workforce; existing relationships between business and research institutions; and a strong link between energy policy and economic development.”

Not being a native North Carolinian myself, it is refreshing to see a state putting issues of the environment front and center.  Having a state be among the top dozen in the country for green energy jobs is impressive and sure to bring in new businesses and residents to the area, especially when “going green” seems to be an issue of growing importance to millions.

At a time when the stability of the economy is unsure and environmental concerns are on the minds of many this seems to be a great time to launch this project and hopefully North Carolina will continue it’s progress as being one of the “greenest” states out there while providing jobs for thousands.