From installing solar panels and HVAC systems to energy-efficient windows and smart-home technology, New Jersey is well on its way to decarbonizing its buildings. Constructing buildings that run on clean power is also a major element of decarbonization — a key goal in the state’s commitment to reach a 100% clean-energy economy by 2050.  

Some 33,000 employees contribute to decarbonizing buildings in the state. They have jobs installing electric home appliances that reduce gas air pollutants, replacing insulation and pipes to reduce energy waste and preparing construction materials and sites. Most work in northern counties like Bergen, Morris and Middlesex. 

But neighboring states like New York have more decarbonization jobs per capita than the Garden State, reportedly in part due to policy missteps in 2012 under former Gov. Chris Christie. New Jersey missed out on approximately $279 million in funding for clean–energy investments. A new report from the national nonpartisan business group E2 (Environmental Entrepreneurs) recommends policy changes to accelerate building decarbonization in New Jersey.