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- October 13, 202617°
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- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
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- October 13, 202617°
Solar Energy Surpasses Coal for the First Time in U.S. History
In May, solar energy generated more electricity than coal for the first time in U.S. history. Analysis of official data highlights the rise of renewables and the continued decline in coal's share.
A significant milestone has been reached in U.S. electricity production. For the first time on record, solar energy provided more electricity than coal, marking a new turning point in the country’s energy transition.
According to an analysis by the energy think tank Ember based on government data, solar accounted for 12.8% of the nation’s electricity in May, while coal’s share stood at 12.2%.
Five years ago, solar’s share was less than half of today’s level. During the same period, coal hovered around 20%. This gap illustrates how rapidly the energy mix has shifted in just a few years.
Gas and Nuclear Still Lead
Natural gas and nuclear power plants remain the top two sources of electricity generation. However, solar energy has become the third largest and fastest-growing source.
Nicolas Fulghum, a senior data analyst at Ember, said solar has made significant progress in the U.S. electricity system in a short time. He noted that many markets from Texas to California are turning to solar to meet rising electricity demand.
Political Pressure Has Not Slowed Renewables
This transition occurred amid increasing political pressure against renewable energy. Last summer, Congress approved regulations that rolled back much of the climate legislation enacted during former President Joe Biden’s administration.
Former President Donald Trump also took steps to hinder renewable energy investments. Reports indicate he offered at least $1 billion to an oil company to halt offshore wind projects.
In the same month, the Trump administration announced a $700 million funding package for the coal sector.
Trump described this move as a historic effort to reduce energy prices and living costs. During his campaign, he had emphasized pro-coal rhetoric.
Coal’s Share Fluctuates but Decline Continues
The analysis showed coal production slightly increased in May compared to April, when coal’s share hit an all-time low.
Coal’s share in the electricity system may rise again during summer months due to increased cooling demand. However, the overall trend in recent years points to a long-term decline for the sector.
Environmental groups’ Lena Moffitt likened the $700 million bailout for coal to throwing a lifeline to a sinking ship. Meanwhile, Rich Nolan, President and CEO of the National Mining Association, argued that coal production protects consumers against volatile energy prices and supply pressures caused by artificial intelligence.
Growth in Solar Energy Expected to Continue
Industry experts believe that although installations may decline in 2025 compared to 2024, solar energy will maintain its growth trend. Solar still accounted for more than half of newly installed electricity capacity.
Environmental advocates expect more renewable sources to be connected to the grid in the coming period. This trend is seen as beneficial both for consumers’ bills and for health and the environment.
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