Soldiers and military veterans in New York will be trained to work in the solar industry.

That’s part of the US Department of Energy’s ‘Solar Ready Vets’ programme which aims to prepare them for solar careers such as installers, sales representatives and inspectors.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo said it is the first training scheme in the state and the eighth offered at military installations in the country.

The programme will also provide job placements at New York’s solar companies up to six months prior to their separation from military service.

According to the Solar Foundation’s 2014 statistics, the industry is creating jobs more than 20 times faster than the overall economy. Solar employment in the state grew more than 40% in 2014, adding nearly 2,100 jobs.

Mr Cuomo said: “Soldiers and veterans have the experience and know how to get the job done. The dramatic growth of solar in New York is creating a demand for highly skilled workers. Offering these heroes valuable training and the technical skills needed to work in this rapidly growing industry, not only helps veterans succeed post service but helps all of us create a more sustainable future.”

There are currently 359 solar companies in New York, employing more than 7,000 people.