The United States has witnessed a significant surge in its power grid capacity, adding 14.5 GW in the first half of 2025, predominantly due to solar energy. According to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), solar and wind energy sources were responsible for 91% of the new electrical generating capacity during this period. This development underscores the growing importance of renewable energy in the American energy landscape, despite efforts by the Trump administration to bolster coal and gas sectors.
Solar Power’s Dominance in New Energy Capacity
Solar energy has consistently led new energy capacity additions in the U.S. for 22 consecutive months. Despite policies from the Trump administration favoring traditional energy sources, solar has emerged as the leading force. In June alone, solar energy accounted for 82% of new capacity, contributing 14,567 MW of utility-scale energy in the first six months of 2025, representing 74.9% of all new capacity.
Challenges for Wind and Natural Gas
While solar power continues to expand, other energy sources like wind and natural gas lag behind. Wind energy grew by 10.53 GW, and natural gas saw an increase of only 2.73 GW. FERC anticipates that solar energy will remain on an upward trajectory, with “high probability” net additions of 92,660 MW projected between July 2025 and June 2028.
Renewable Energy’s Rising Influence
Despite the ongoing contributions of wind and nuclear power, solar energy is rapidly gaining acceptance among Americans. The installed capacity of solar power now stands at 11.34%, closely matching wind’s 11.83%. If current trends persist, solar is set to surpass wind as the leading renewable energy source in the U.S.
“Clearly, we need more incentives to quickly increase the use of wind and solar power; they will cut costs, increase our energy independence and our national security…” – Ralph Nader
Projections indicate that by July 1, 2028, renewable energy will account for 38.1% of total utility-scale generating capacity. This raises questions about the Trump administration’s stance against the solar and wind sectors, particularly in light of ongoing innovations in the solar industry.
Trump Administration’s Energy Policies Under Scrutiny
Amidst significant advancements in renewable energy, the Trump administration has tasked Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Health and Human Services Department with investigating the potential health impacts of electromagnetic fields emitted by wind turbines. This move suggests a preference for traditional energy sources over renewables.
Original Story at energiesmedia.com