Solar Energy Installation Skills and Employment Generation in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State

By: Onyinyechi Josephine Onuoha, Nanwul Diyemang Felix, Chigozie Ambrose Umeh & Nwachukwu Charles James

Pages: 186–201, Volume: 3, Number: 2

Published by: AEFUNAI Journal of Economics, Finance and Development Studies, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, 8/1/2026, 2026

ISSN (Electronic): 2536-6742

DOI:

Solar Energy Installation Skills and Employment Generation in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State

Abstract:

Given the increasing demand for renewable energy and the pressing need for job creation in Jos North Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State and Nigeria in general, this study examined the effect of solar energy installation skills on employment generation in Jos North LGA of Plateau State, Nigeria. The study assessed the relationship between key predictors (labour absorption, skill acquisition and technical know-how, job sustainability, and income levels) and employment generation. A descriptive survey design using a structured Likert-scale questionnaire was used to collect data from solar energy entrepreneurs, technicians, installers, and other employees in solar energy projects in Jos North Local Government Area. Questionnaires were administered to 387 respondents in Jos North LGA of Plateau State. The collected data were analysed using multiple linear regression analysis. Findings revealed a positive and significant relationship between labour absorption and employment generation; Skill acquisition and technical know-how also had a positive and significant relationship with employment generation, while job sustainability had a negative and significant relationship with employment generation. Income level showed a positive and significant relationship with employment generation. In conclusion, solar energy installation contributed significantly to employment opportunities, particularly through training, entrepreneurship, and increased household income. This implies that scaling up solar energy projects in Jos North would enhance job creation, reduce unemployment, and foster sustainable development. Thus, it was recommended that private investors and the government should support solar energy development, especially by providing training opportunities and favourable policies to encourage job creation in the sector.

Keywords: Solar Energy, Installation Skills, Employment Generation, Jos, Plateau State