Solar Energy Has Passed Coal For The First Time

Solar energy has passed coal for the first time as a percentage of electric power generation nationwide for an entire month. 

The Rise of Solar

In May, solar was the third-largest source of U.S. electricity, at 12.8%, surpassing coal, which fell to fourth place at 12.2%, according to data released last week by the global energy think tank Ember. That milestone represents the first crossing point of two power sources (solar and coal) which have been trending in opposite directions for years. (Gas, followed by nuclear, held on to first and second place in the monthly generation mix for May.)

“For years solar power has risen in the U.S. electricity mix,” said Nicolas Fulghum, senior energy and data analyst at Ember. “At the same time, coal power has lost its status, first as the largest source in the U.S. mix, and then gradually over the years has fallen even further.”

Renewable Energy is Taking Over

The trend will continue, as more than 90% of new electric generation capacity added in the U.S. has been a mix of solar, wind, and battery storage for several years now. Solar in particular is inexpensive and easy to build. 

Globally, a mix of renewable energy sources is projected to become the largest source of electric generation (at 45% of the total) by 2030. 

Meanwhile, coal’s share of the energy generation market is destined to continue to fall as its costs continue to rise, both on an absolute basis and in contrast to alternatives. 

Fighting for North Carolina’s Clean Energy Future

At NCLCV, we believe customers should have a choice between affordable, renewable energy and expensive fossil fuels. Learn more about advancing clean energy here!