US energy data shows a significant shift in the country’s power generation mix, with wind and solar producing more electricity than coal last year. According to a report by energy think tank Ember, coal generated just 15% of the country’s electricity, while solar and wind combined accounted for 17%. Solar energy was the fastest-growing source of electricity in 2024, accounting for 81% of added annual capacity.
Solar energy has reached historically low costs, making it the cheapest source of electricity in most parts of the world. The US saw a 190% increase in manufacturing capacity for solar modules last year, with Texas experiencing the most growth. Wind generation grew more modestly but remains a significant source of electricity, accounting for about 10% of the country’s mix.
Despite the Trump administration’s efforts to undermine renewable energy, market forces suggest that the gains made last year could be sustained. Electricity demand is on the rise, driven by growing interest in energy-hungry technologies like AI data centers and electric vehicles. Renewable energy companies may benefit from this trend, which could help them resist efforts to cut funding for projects.
The US will need to install 900 gigawatts of renewable energy and batteries by 2040, according to a recent report. While there is still room for growth in the fossil fuel sector, renewables have made significant strides since 2018, when coal generated three times as much electricity as solar and wind combined.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/628369/solar-wind-beat-coal-us-ember-report