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US Solar Energy Boom Amid Rising Power Demand

U.S. solar energy surges amid rising demand, driven by tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, despite criticism from oil and gas industries.
Solar is growing faster than any energy source as clean power for data centers

The United States has witnessed a surge in solar energy as power demand increases, surpassing the growth of all other electricity sources. Despite criticism from oil and gas industry leaders, the clean energy sector is reaching a turning point, driven by the demand for renewable energy solutions from large tech firms like Amazon and Microsoft.

Although solar energy only accounted for 3.9% of the nation’s power mix in 2023, compared to the 43% share held by natural gas, this is expected to change. Large tech companies have invested heavily in clean energy to power their data centers, which are essential for internet and artificial intelligence applications. This is due to the declining price of solar modules and batteries, which make renewable energy more economical.

Renewable Energy: The Future of Power Generation

Andrés Gluski, CEO of AES Corporation, a power company that operates both renewable and gas-powered plants, believes that renewable energy is the future. AES Corporation has signed large power agreements with major companies like Google and Amazon.

Amazon, Microsoft, Meta Platforms, and Google represented 40% of the demand for large, utility-scale solar projects in the U.S. over the past five years. With these companies committed to 100% clean energy, demand for renewable solutions is set to grow, especially with the increasing energy requirements of artificial intelligence applications.

Renewable Energy Dominates Future Installations

Solar energy is forecast to comprise 58% of new electricity generation installed in the U.S. in 2024, according to an estimate from the Department of Energy. An all-time high of 36 gigawatts of solar power is scheduled to be added to the grid this year, nearly double last year’s increase. By contrast, only 2.5 gigawatts of natural gas is expected to be installed in 2024, marking the lowest number in 25 years.

Increasing Power Usage

The U.S. is experiencing a historic rise in electricity demand due to a return of manufacturing to the U.S., increased electric vehicle adoption, and the building out of energy-intensive data centers by Big Tech companies. These trends could lead to a 20% surge in electricity demand by 2030. This increased demand poses a challenge to achieving the Biden administration’s goal of 100% clean electricity by 2035.

Rising Solar Energy Adoption

Despite the arguments of natural gas producers that they are better equipped to meet the increasing demand, the clean energy sector is experiencing a boom. In 2023, nearly 2,500 gigawatts of solar, wind, and battery projects were requesting connection to the power grid – double the entire installed capacity of the current U.S. power plant fleet. Solar energy demand is expected to continue rising as the cost of solar for large utility projects becomes competitive with natural gas.

Challenges for the Renewables Sector

While renewable energy is on the rise, the sector faces significant challenges. Achieving 90% clean electricity by 2035 would require a threefold increase in the deployment rate of renewables. Additionally, the construction of necessary physical transmission lines poses significant logistical challenges due to complex permitting across various administrative levels.

Role of Batteries

Batteries play a crucial role in ensuring renewable energy can meet demand during non-peak weather conditions. Current lithium-ion batteries can typically store four hours of power. However, to provide reliable power throughout the day, batteries that can store eight hours or more of power are needed. The cost-effectiveness of longer-duration batteries is expected to improve as energy demand increases.

Companies like Fluence, one of the leading battery providers for utility-scale projects in the U.S., are optimistic about the future of battery storage. The company’s president of the Americas region, John Zahurancik, notes that battery costs have decreased by approximately 20 times since the early 2000s and expects the value of each additional hour of battery storage to rise as energy demand increases.

It is clear that renewable energy, particularly solar, is set to play a significant role in the future of power generation in the U.S. as the demand for clean, sustainable power continues to grow.

Original Story at www.cnbc.com

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024