Key facts
- In May, solar power provided 12.8% of U.S. electricity, exceeding coal's 12.2% share for the first time.
- Coal generation reached its fourth-lowest monthly share on record in May.
- Solar is now the third-largest source of U.S. electricity, following natural gas and nuclear power.
- President Donald Trump has proposed nearly $700 million to support the U.S. coal industry.
- Solar and battery storage constituted 91% of new energy generating capacity in the first quarter.
Solar power has achieved a significant milestone in the United States, generating more electricity than coal for the first time in May. Data from Ember, the Solar Energy Industries Association, and Wood Mackenzie indicate that solar supplied 12.8% of the nation's electricity, while coal provided 12.2%. This marks a historic low for coal's monthly share and positions solar as the third-largest electricity source behind natural gas and nuclear power.
Despite federal policies under President Donald Trump aimed at bolstering the coal industry, renewable energy sources continue to grow. Trump has proposed significant funding for coal-fired power plants and exports, while his administration has previously canceled clean energy projects and reduced funding for solar initiatives. However, industry leaders like Martin Pochtaruk of Heliene emphasize that investor decisions are driven by returns, with solar being the fastest-growing fuel source.
Analysts expect solar to continue its upward trajectory, potentially surpassing coal on an annual basis within a few years. This growth is occurring even as overall U.S. electricity demand is increasing due to factors like artificial intelligence, manufacturing expansion, and electrification. The SEIA notes that solar and battery storage are currently the primary sources of new generating capacity being built in the U.S.