A recent report by FERC (The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) on the US energy infrastructure showcased remarkable trends and developments in the US energy sector. According to this report, nearly 80% of the capacity is fulfilled in May production by solar which is very high in renewable energy generation.

In May 2024, the US added a total of 3189 MW  of new generating capacity, which has a substantial contribution of 2517 MW of solar energy followed by wind 277 MW, and hydropower 211 MW. 

Solar energy is making its way through high and rapid growth and cost-effectiveness. Solar energy stands first with 10669 MW across all the technologies. Solar has a magnificent part of 74% in the first five months of 2024 which is double as compared to the same months of last year.

As per the FERC report, there is a high probability that solar energy will become the second-largest source of generating capacity. Between June 2024 and May 2027, the total amount of solar (89852) will become four times wind energy (23449 MW). 

If the FERC prediction goes right there is a high chance that solar will be occurring at one-seventh of the total capacity of the nation’s installed utility capacity which is collectively much higher than coal (13.42%), wind (12.68%), and hydropower (7.36%).

At the same time, 36.10% of available installed utility-scale generation capacity would come from the mix of all renewable energy. If all the estimated reports go as planned all renewable could exceed the natural gas within the next three years. While the natural gas will drop at 37% the renewable will surpass this with 40% of capacity.

Looking forward,  the FERC anticipates solar power will dominate all sectors with conviction. The US will see a high rise in solar power installed capacity in the next three years. The ambitious projection of solar generation capacity is 90 GW in total renewable installed capacity

The United States is using more renewable energy like wind and solar power. This is happening because of better technology, lower costs, and supportive laws. As a result, solar and wind power will be important parts of the country’s future energy plans.

SOURCE: https://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/07/16/solar-nears-9-of-u-s-total-electric-generation-capacity/