The United States has witnessed an unprecedented solar power explosion, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards renewable energy. For the first time since the Second World War, a renewable energy source has eclipsed fossil fuels, with the U.S. adding a record-breaking 32.4 gigawatts of solar capacity in 2023 alone.
Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act and initiatives by the Biden Administration to bolster U.S. solar manufacturing, this trend is not just a one-time achievement but a hopeful norm for the future. The Solar Energy Industries Association reports a leap from the previous record of 23.6 gigawatts in 2021, making solar power account for 52 percent of all new energy capacity last year.
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Leading the Charge: California and Texas
California and Texas have been at the forefront of this solar surge, with significant utility-scale solar projects coming online. The industry’s success is buoyed by substantial investments in clean energy tech, roughly amounting to $369 billion, and incentives for rooftop solar installations. Despite challenges such as net metering policy changes and high interest rates, the solar sector has demonstrated resilience and growth.
The Age of Solar
Although solar currently contributes to only 5 percent of the U.S. energy mix, projections suggest a potential expansion to 500 gigawatts by 2034. This growth, however, hinges on the stability of policy support. The industry has overcome obstacles like the net metering policy shift in California and the financial strains leading to the bankruptcy of approximately 100 residential solar dealers in 2023.
The historical significance of 2023 as a landmark year for solar energy cannot be overstated. With a concerted push for domestic solar supply chain manufacturing, the U.S. is poised to lead the global transition towards a more sustainable and clean energy future. The commitment to solar power reflects a broader shift in energy priorities, promising a brighter, greener world for generations to come.
Article by Darren Orf, a Portland-based writer focused on science fiction and the mechanics of our world. His work has previously appeared in Gizmodo and Paste.