US Energy Shift: Solar Power Overtakes Hydroelectric
Solar panels have gotten so cheap that it’s possible to spend more on their support system while still turning a profit.
Solar Power Growth
According to the US Energy Information Administration, solar power experienced a 35% growth in 2025, surpassing hydroelectric power for the first time. This growth can be attributed to the decreasing cost of solar panels and the increasing demand for renewable energy sources.
Shift in Energy Markets
Overall electrical consumption in the US rose by 2.8% in 2025, with solar power being the primary source of new energy generation. The growth in solar power was sufficient to cover about two-thirds of the rising demand, with the remaining demand being met by fossil fuels.
Fossil Fuel Market
The fossil fuel market has become increasingly complicated, with high demand and increased tariffs leading to rising costs and long delays for natural gas generation. As a result, coal has become more economically viable, with electricity generated from burning it rising by 13% in 2025.
Rising Coal Use
The rise in coal use can be attributed to the Trump administration’s policies, including the promotion of natural gas exports and the reversal of Biden’s block on new facilities that export natural gas in liquid form. This has led to a rise in coal use, despite the administration’s claims of promoting renewable energy.
What’s Next?
Despite the Trump administration’s hostility towards renewable energy, the economics of solar and wind power are expected to continue to drive growth in these sectors. A recent analysis of planned projects indicates that the US will see another 43 GW of solar capacity added in 2026, far more than the 27 GW added in 2025.
Future of Renewable Energy
The future of renewable energy in the US looks promising, with wind and solar power well-positioned to outpace hydroelectric power as they provide an ever-larger share of US electricity. As the cost of renewable energy continues to decrease, it is likely that we will see a significant shift towards cleaner energy sources in the coming years.
In conclusion, the US energy landscape is undergoing a significant shift, with solar power overtaking hydroelectric power for the first time. While there are still challenges to be addressed, the growth of renewable energy sources is expected to continue, driving a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
FAQs
- What is the current state of solar power in the US?
- Solar power has experienced a 35% growth in 2025, surpassing hydroelectric power for the first time.
- What is driving the growth of solar power?
- The decreasing cost of solar panels and the increasing demand for renewable energy sources are driving the growth of solar power.
- What is the impact of the Trump administration’s policies on the energy market?
- The Trump administration’s policies have led to a rise in coal use, despite the administration’s claims of promoting renewable energy.
