Key facts
- In May, solar power generated more electricity in the U.S. than coal for the first time.
- Solar supplied 12.8% of the nation's electricity in May, while coal supplied 12.2%.
- Coal generation reached its fourth-lowest monthly share ever in May.
- Solar is now the third-largest source of U.S. electricity, behind natural gas and nuclear.
- Solar and battery storage accounted for 91% of new generating capacity in Q1.
- President Donald Trump is supporting the coal industry with nearly $700 million in funding.
For the first time in May, solar power generated more electricity in the U.S. than coal, supplying 12.8% of the nation's electricity compared to coal's 12.2%. This milestone, detailed by energy think tank Ember and reports from the Solar Energy Industries Association and Wood Mackenzie, underscores solar's continued growth despite federal policies favoring coal.
Nicolas Fulghum, senior energy and data analyst at Ember, noted that solar has been steadily rising in the U.S. electricity mix while coal has declined. In May, solar became the third-largest electricity source, behind natural gas and nuclear. Coal generation hit a record monthly low in April and only saw a modest rebound in May, allowing solar to surpass it.
Despite President Donald Trump's efforts to support the coal industry, including a plan for nearly $700 million in funding for coal-fired power plants and exports, investors are prioritizing solar due to its strong returns. Martin Pochtaruk, CEO of solar panel manufacturer Heliene, stated that solar is the fastest-growing fuel source.
A White House spokeswoman defended the administration's energy policies, citing strengthened national security and the preservation of coal industry jobs. However, data indicates that solar has been the top source for new power generation for five years, with solar and battery storage making up 91% of new capacity in the first quarter. The Trump administration has also canceled clean energy projects and slowed permitting processes.