2024, The Year of Clean Tech Innovation
Fruition IT
Fruition IT specialises in the recruitment of IT and Business Change professionals at all levels.
When 2024 began, forecasts for clean technology were full of promise: big ideas, bold targets, and ambitious timelines.?
Electric vehicle (EV) adoption surged to new heights. Battery breakthroughs finally hit commercial production. Supply chains became more transparent. And the role of AI in energy management shifted from "possibility" to "practice."
Worldwide investment in energy hit a record $1.8 trillion, a 17% increase from 2023. The energy storage market is forecast to grow by 21% annually through 2030, requiring billions, if not trillions, in investment.
As we prepare for 2025, one thing is clear: The clean tech hiring landscape is more competitive, more complex, and more exciting than ever.
In this edition of Powered Up, we’ll reflect on the milestones of 2024, reveal our fearless forecast for 2025, and offer actionable insights for organisations seeking to stay ahead.
The Year in Review: What 2024 Promised vs. What Happened
At the start of the year, expectations for clean technology were high. Industry forecasts promised:
So, how did 2024 stack up?
Major Milestones That Shaped 2024
1. EVs Surged in Popularity
By 2024, EVs had gone from niche to mainstream. This year, EVs made up 18% of all global car sales. In June alone, Volvo reported that 48% of its global sales were electric, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid vehicles.
This shift is driven by cheaper EV models, stronger government incentives, and rapid improvements in charging networks. It’s no longer a question of if consumers will switch to electric, but when.
2. The Critical Minerals Crunch
Electric vehicles (EVs) require far more minerals than traditional petrol cars. The average EV battery contains approximately 185 kg of minerals—including lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, and graphite—compared to just 18 kg in a conventional car battery.?
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned of potential supply shortages, while the World Economic Forum echoed concerns about the long-term sustainability of mineral sourcing.?
Josh Ripley, Head of Clean Tech at Fruition IT, points to the scale of the challenge, noting that “EVs require six times more minerals for their motors and batteries than traditional vehicles,” underscoring the pivotal role of supply chain innovation.?
Companies like Northvolt and Redwood Materials are driving a shift toward a "circular economy," recycling used batteries to recover essential materials.
This shift isn’t just about supply; it’s about compliance too. As ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards tighten, roles like supply chain specialists, ESG analysts, and sustainability consultants will be instrumental in ensuring compliance and mitigating production delays.
3. Battery Technology Finally Got Its Breakthrough
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Solid-state batteries are now approaching commercial viability. Toyota aims to integrate them into hybrid vehicles by 2025, and BMW plans to launch a prototype solid-state battery the same year, with production models set for 2030.
Manufacturers are also shifting to cobalt-free batteries to reduce reliance on scarce minerals, making supply chains more resilient and sustainable. AI-driven battery management systems have become standard, enabling smarter charging and extending battery life.
The integration of artificial intelligence into battery management systems has also become more prevalent. This enables smarter charging protocols and optimised energy utilisation. AI algorithms enhance the accuracy of battery health assessments and improve thermal management, thereby extending battery lifespan and performance. These innovations collectively contribute to safer, more efficient, and cost-effective batteries, paving the way for EVs with extended ranges, reduced charging durations, and lower overall costs.
4. Smarter Energy Grids?
AI and automation significantly transformed power grid operations in 2024, marking the rise of more intelligent and efficient "smart grids." Predictive AI now balances supply and demand in real-time, integrating wind and solar more efficiently into the grid.
AI-driven grid management software became essential for utilities worldwide, helping to prevent blackouts, reduce energy waste, and improve system resilience. This shift from reactive to proactive energy management allows utilities to prepare for and respond to fluctuations before they happen. The global AI in energy market is forecast to grow from USD 8.91 billion in 2024 to USD 58.66 billion by 2030 at a CAGR of 36.9%.
What’s Next for 2025? Our Fearless Forecast
If 2024 was the year of delivery, 2025 will be the year of acceleration. As clean tech scales up, so too will the competition for talent. Here’s what we expect to shape 2025 and the skills that will be in highest demand:
Final Takeaway
2024 was a defining year for clean tech. EVs went mainstream, battery tech hit production milestones, and AI-driven energy grids became essential. But 2025 is not about resting on those wins; it’s about taking it a step further.?
Organisations will need to think differently about how they hire, develop, and retain the people who will drive these technologies forward. For clean tech companies, this means staying ahead of the competition for talent. For candidates, it’s a chance to carve out a role in one of the world’s most future-proof industries.?
How Fruition IT Can Support Your 2025 Recruitment Goals
At Fruition IT, we understand that the right people are at the heart of every clean tech breakthrough. From technical specialists to executive leaders, we help businesses stay ahead.
We support your recruitment goals through:
If you’re ready to grow your team or advance your career, get in touch with Fruition IT today.
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