Despite federal policies favoring coal over clean energy, solar power in the United States has reached new milestones according to data from global energy think tank Ember and reports from the Solar Energy Industries Association and analytics firm Wood Mackenzie. This ongoing growth reflects the solar sector’s position as a leading source of new power, overcoming coal in the energy mix.
Ember’s analysis reveals that, in May, solar energy supplied 12.8% of the nation’s electricity, surpassing coal’s 12.2% share, marking its fourth-lowest monthly share ever. Nicolas Fulghum, a senior energy and data analyst at Ember, explained that solar power has steadily increased its presence in the U.S. electricity mix, while coal has relinquished its previous status as the largest power source.
By May, solar became the third-largest electricity source in the U.S., trailing behind natural gas and nuclear power. Coal generation hit a monthly low in April and saw a slight rebound in May, allowing solar to surpass it. Fulghum anticipates that solar will continue to exceed coal generation in upcoming months, with an annual eclipse expected in years soon to come. This indicates solar’s resilience amidst diminished federal support for renewable energy.
“Years of solar power growth have changed the U.S. electricity mix dramatically,” Fulghum said.
Electricity generation transforms varied energy sources, including fossil fuels, renewables, and nuclear, into electrical power. Burning coal, oil, and natural gas emits carbon dioxide, leading to atmospheric warming. In contrast, solar, wind, geothermal, hydropower, and nuclear power remain carbon-free.
With flat energy consumption in the U.S. over two decades, demand is rising now due to artificial intelligence needs, domestic manufacturing expansion, and the electrification of transportation and heating. Fulghum believes solar power is positioned for significant growth, surpassing coal on an annual basis within a few years.
Globally, renewables are growing swiftly. The International Energy Agency predicts these sources will represent almost 45% of global electricity generation by 2030.
Amid President Donald Trump’s initiatives to bolster the coal industry, recent data indicates solar is the top source for new power installations in the U.S. Despite canceled solar and wind projects and policies hindering clean energy development or funding, solar and battery storage dominated first-quarter energy resource construction, accounting for 91% of new generating capacity.
As power demand rises, political opposition has slowed renewable energy development, leading to higher electricity bills. Darren Van’t Hof, interim president and CEO of SEIA, warned of the consequences of impeding active new power sector development.
“Political and regulatory actions are slowing down key resources,” Van’t Hof said.
Litigation continues regarding canceled programs like Solar for All, while a recent ruling struck down IRS guidance limiting tax credits for renewable projects. Analysts argue recent energy price spikes result from increased demand, aging infrastructure, and weather events heightened by climate change. Additionally, geopolitical tensions, such as conflicts instigated by U.S. leadership, continue to impact costs.
Despite opposition, solar power growth persists across various political landscapes. States that supported Trump in the 2024 election accounted for a significant portion of solar capacity added in early 2026, with Texas, Florida, and others leading.
Johanna Neumann of Environment America underscored solar’s extensive growth as beneficial for health and the planet, stressing its affordability and scalability.
“Solar is our most abundant and affordable energy source,” Neumann remarked.
Renewable energy continues to gain prominence nationwide. Last year, 32 states generated at least 10% of their retail electricity from solar, wind, and geothermal sources, showcasing pervasive clean energy adoption.
Many believe clean energy is limited to coastal or liberal regions, yet Neumann emphasized its nationwide scope, illustrating the broad reach and appeal of renewables.
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