According to newly released data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), solar and wind power were the fastest-growing sources of electricity in the United States during the first half of 2024.
The nation’s renewable energy mix saw a nearly 10% increase in output, with solar and wind driving the momentum.
In particular, solar energy saw a remarkable 26.3% growth compared to the same period in 2023. This increase was fueled by both utility-scale projects and small-scale installations, such as rooftop solar panels.
Small-scale solar, which includes systems smaller than 1 MW, accounted for nearly 30% of the total solar generation and contributed 2% of the nation’s electricity supply during the first half of the year.
Small-scale solar installations are transforming rooftops into clean energy sources across the U.S.Johanna Neumann, Senior Director of the Campaign for 100% Renewable Energy at Environment America Research & Policy Center, highlighted the environmental benefits of small-scale solar.
“Every small-scale solar installation on rooftops protects open space and produces power close to where it’s needed in homes and businesses,” Neumann explained.
As solar and wind energy continue to gain ground, the U.S. is making significant strides toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
With renewable sources growing rapidly, the nation is reducing its dependence on fossil fuels and pushing toward its renewable energy goals.
This shift is not only beneficial for the environment but also supports the broader movement toward energy independence and resilience in communities across the country.