Solar power hits new milestones in the U.S. even as Trump boosts coal over clean energy

Solar power has reached new milestones in the U.S., surpassing coal in electricity generation for the first time in May. Data from Ember shows solar supplied 12.8% of the nation's electricity, while coal provided 12.2%, marking coal's fourth-lowest monthly share ever. This shift occurs despite federal policies that favor coal over clean energy sources. "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."

Solar is now the third-largest source of U.S. electricity, behind natural gas and nuclear power. Coal generation hit an all-time monthly low in April and only modestly recovered in May, allowing solar to overtake it. This trend signifies solar's growing staying power, even with reduced federal support for renewables. Experts anticipate more months where solar exceeds coal generation, with annual dominance expected within a few years.

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For years solar power has risen in the U.S. electricity mix. 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.

Electricity demand in the U.S. is increasing, driven by factors like artificial intelligence, domestic manufacturing growth, and the electrification of transportation and heating. While burning fossil fuels like coal releases carbon dioxide, solar and other renewables are carbon-free. Globally, renewables are projected to become the largest energy source by 2030, accounting for nearly 45% of electricity generation, according to the International Energy Agency. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has announced plans to invest nearly $700 million to support the U.S. coal industry.

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has staying power