Imagine a future where the air is cleaner, your energy bill is lower, and new, green jobs are flourishing. The U.S. is well on its way to making this a reality. With renewable energy expanding faster than ever, we’re not just reshaping how we power our homes and businesses—we’re building a healthier, more sustainable planet.
A Record Year for Renewable Energy
Renewable energy in the U.S. already accounts for more than 20% of electricity generation, surpassing coal for the first time in history in 2022. By 2024, experts predict utility-scale solar capacity will increase by a staggering 30%, adding 31 gigawatts (GW). Wind power is set to expand by an additional 7 GW, reinforcing its status as a cornerstone of clean energy generation.
This growth is no accident. The Biden administration's ambitious goal of achieving 100% carbon-free electricity by 2035 is fueling this rapid growth. Federal policies like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) are making renewables more competitive, slashing costs, and incentivizing massive investments. Solar and wind are now some of the cheapest ways to produce electricity—cheaper than coal and gas in many places.
Challenges Are Stepping Stones
Of course, transitioning to clean energy isn’t without its challenges. Delays in permits, supply chain issues, and aging grids can make progress tricky. Add to that the uncertainty of political support, and it’s clear the road to renewable energy isn’t always smooth.
But here’s the good news: each challenge brings an opportunity to innovate. Energy storage—like batteries—will play a huge role in stabilizing power, even on cloudy or windless days. By mid-2024, the U.S. is expected to add 10 GW of new energy storage capacity, enabling the grid to handle more renewable energy and ensuring a stable supply even when the sun isn’t shining or the wind isn’t blowing.
Let’s see some numbers and graphs
Solar energy is shining brighter than ever across the U.S. Lower 48 states, as highlighted by a striking surge in generation during August 2024. Compared to the same period last year, utility-scale solar output consistently outperformed expectations, with August 20 marking an 83% increase over the same day in 2023. This growth is a clear signal of the country’s expanding solar capacity, supported by robust policy incentives and cutting-edge technology. Each sunny day is translating into cleaner power and more sustainable energy solutions for communities nationwide. As solar energy becomes a cornerstone of the U.S. energy mix, the future looks brighter—quite literally. What does this growth mean for you? It’s a chance to embrace solar as a powerful ally in the fight against climate change.
It’s clear that U.S. renewable energy production is projected to grow from 733,260 million kWh in 2018 to 1,083,270 million kWh by 2028—a 47% increase reflecting steady growth with solar and wind energy being the Leading Sources with significant capacity additions each year and Hydropower and bioenergy providing Baseline Support to the renewable energy mix.Geothermal and marine energy being the Emerging Technologies are gradually increasing their share, signaling diversification in the energy portfolio.
Future Outlook: This trajectory reflects the U.S.'s commitment to cleaner energy and the economic and environmental benefits it brings.
Why Renewables Matter to Everyone
The move to renewable energy is about more than saving the planet—it’s about helping people. In 2023, the solar industry alone added 15,000 new jobs, bringing the total to nearly 280,000. These jobs are creating opportunities across the country, from rural towns to bustling cities.
And it’s not just about jobs. Renewables are helping reduce energy costs for everyday Americans. Solar and wind farms are now among the cheapest sources of electricity, and states like Texas, California, and Florida are leading the charge.
Key stats to notice:
Utility-scale solar generation in August 2024 grew by 36% compared to August 2023, reflecting massive capacity expansions.
The U.S. added 24 GW of solar capacity between August and December 2024, representing nearly two-thirds of all new electricity additions.
States like Texas and the Southeast are leading in solar, each projected to add 8 GW of new capacity in 2024.
Renewable energy consumption in the U.S. is projected to grow 60% between 2024 and 2030, driven by declining costs and policy support.
Battery storage capacity rose by 64% in 2024, enabling greater integration of renewable energy into the grid.
Renewable jobs accounted for 79% of new electric power generation employment in 2023, highlighting their growing economic impact.
Learning from Others
The U.S. isn’t the only country making big strides in renewable energy. Denmark, for example, now generates 67% of its electricity from wind and solar, thanks to early investments and smart policies. Meanwhile, Uruguay has cut electricity costs nearly in half, creating 50,000 new jobs along the way.
These global success stories prove that with commitment and creativity, any country can make the shift to clean energy. The U.S. is on the same path—and with your support, we can go even further.
What’s Next?
By 2025, the U.S. is expected to hit new records in solar, wind, and battery storage capacity, with over 100 GW of clean energy installations each year. But achieving a truly sustainable future will take teamwork. It’s not just up to the government or big corporations. Each of us has a role to play.
Your Part in the Renewable Revolution
You’ve already taken the first step by staying informed. Want to do more? Consider exploring solar panels for your home, supporting clean energy policies in your area, or simply sharing what you’ve learned with others.
Curious about how renewable energy could impact your home or business? We’re here to help. Reach out to learn about the incentives, programs, and technologies making clean energy a reality. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener future—one step (or watt) at a time.
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Best regards,
The Renewable Leader Team
People Movements in USA in 2024
SunPower Corp appointed Jennifer Johnston as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) on May 8, 2023, to enhance its operational leadership.
RWE Clean Energy appointed Kevin Kroll as Chief Operating Officer (COO) on August 1, 2024, to oversee its U.S. renewable operations.
Market Policies In USA in 2024
Enhanced Climate Targets: President Biden set a new goal to reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 61-66% below 2005 levels by 2035, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050.
Major Utility Investment: The Department of Energy granted a $15 billion low-interest loan to Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) to upgrade hydroelectric infrastructure and enhance grid capacity for renewable energy integration.
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Implementation: The IRA continued to support renewable energy through tax credits and subsidies, fostering growth in sectors like electric vehicles, clean fuels, wind, solar, and nuclear energy.
Policy Shifts Under New Administration: President-elect Donald Trump announced intentions to repeal the IRA and redirect funds from renewable energy initiatives to other areas, signaling potential policy changes affecting the renewable sector.
Offshore Wind Expansion: The Biden administration approved the SouthCoast Wind project off Massachusetts, featuring 141 turbines to generate 2.4 gigawatts (GW) of clean energy, enough to power over 840,000 homes.