In a significant shift in the U.S. energy landscape, solar power has emerged as a leading force, surpassing coal in its contribution to the national electricity supply. Despite federal policies favoring coal, the solar industry has continued to grow, driven by technological advancements and market dynamics.
Solar Power Takes the Lead
According to data from Ember, a global energy think tank, and a report by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Wood Mackenzie, solar power accounted for 12.8% of the nation’s electricity in May, overshadowing coal’s 12.2%. This marks the first time solar has outpaced coal on a monthly basis, a milestone that highlights the declining role of coal in the energy mix.
“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 has become the third-largest source of electricity in the U.S., trailing only natural gas and nuclear power. This shift comes amid increasing electricity demand, driven by the rise of artificial intelligence, domestic manufacturing, and the electrification of transportation and heating.
Federal Policies and Market Realities
Despite efforts by President Donald Trump to revive the coal industry, including a $700 million plan to support coal-fired power plants, solar power continues to attract investment. Martin Pochtaruk, CEO of solar panel manufacturer Heliene, stated that investors are drawn to solar due to its strong returns, making it the fastest-growing energy source.
The Trump administration’s policies have included canceling solar and wind projects and reducing funding for clean energy initiatives. However, SEIA reports that solar and battery storage have dominated new energy capacity, accounting for 91% of all additions in the first quarter.
White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers defended the administration’s approach, emphasizing efforts to strengthen national security and save the coal industry. “The President has reversed the Left’s devastating policies, saved the American coal industry, prevented the retirement of more than 17 gigawatts of power, and saved lives during heightened demand periods,” said Rogers.
Meanwhile, clean energy advocates argue that the shift toward renewables is inevitable. Johanna Neumann of the Environment America Research and Policy Center noted that the economic and environmental benefits of solar make it an attractive option. “Today we can harness solar more affordably than any other energy source. It’s scalable. And it’s also our most abundant renewable energy source,” she said.
State-Level Solar Growth
Despite federal challenges, states that supported Trump in the 2024 election have been at the forefront of solar expansion. SEIA reports that these states accounted for 74% of the new solar capacity installed in early 2026, with Texas, Florida, and Ohio leading the way.
The growth of solar power reflects broader trends in energy consumption and production, with clean energy sources gaining a larger share of the market. Environment America’s renewable energy dashboard shows significant increases in renewable energy generation across the United States.
Original Story at www.dallasnews.com