Solar power electricity surpasses coal for the first time in U.S.

4 hours ago

Solar power became the third-largest source of U.S. electricity in May 2026, supplying 12.8% and surpassing coal for the first time, despite federal policies supporting coal.
The Trump administration continues to boost coal through funding and policies, while canceling clean energy projects, but solar remains the leading new power source, driven by economic advantages.
Global renewable energy growth is rapid, with projections to supply nearly 45% of electricity by 2030, while U.S. demand rises due to AI, manufacturing, and electrification.
Legal and regulatory challenges persist, including lawsuits over canceled solar programs and IRS rulings, as critics argue attacks on clean energy increase costs and harm leadership.
Solar expansion is widespread across the U.S., with top Trump-voting states leading in new capacity, showcasing its affordability and scalability as a dominant renewable resource.

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