Solar energy generation surpassed wind energy for the first time in May, according to EIA reports.
Solar Energy Soars Ahead in U.S. Electricity Generation
In a remarkable shift, solar energy has become a major player in the U.S. electricity mix, with its share of total generation second only to natural gas. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), solar is expected to account for around 7% of total U.S. electricity generation in 2025, rising to approximately 8% in 2026 [3].
This rapid growth is a testament to the falling costs, supportive policies like tax credits, and strong consumer and utility-scale adoption of solar energy. In 2024, solar generation reached about 365 billion kilowatt-hours (kWh) and is expected to grow by roughly 35% in capacity in 2025 [1].
In the first quarter of 2025 alone, solar installations hit a record 10.8 GWdc, a 43% increase year-over-year [2][4]. Small-scale solar PV rose by 10.7% during the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Utility-scale solar thermal and photovoltaic expanded by 39.8% during the same period [4].
The growth of solar energy is outpacing other renewables. While wind remains a significant source, producing 12.2% of U.S. electricity in the first five months of 2025, solar is expected to surpass wind for seasonal peak generation by 2026 [3].
Meanwhile, traditional sources like coal and natural gas are seeing declines. Natural gas generation is expected to fall 4% in 2025 as renewables rise [3]. Solar-generated electricity has already surpassed the output of US hydropower plants in May 2025.
The mix of all renewable energy sources generated nearly 30% of total US electrical generation in May 2025. For the first time ever, the mix of utility-scale and small-scale solar produced more electricity than wind in May 2025. Solar and wind made up 96% of new US power generating capacity in the first third of 2025 [4].
In May 2025, solar + wind accounted for nearly 21.5% of US electrical output, a significant leap from previous years. This growth is set to continue, with solar projects expected to come online in the coming years.
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However, it's important to note that the 30% federal solar tax credit is ending this year. To make sure you find a trusted, reliable solar installer near you, check out EnergySage. Solar now produces more electricity than hydropower, biomass, and geothermal combined.
As solar energy continues to grow, it's clear that it is becoming a crucial part of the U.S. electricity mix. With the right policies and support, solar energy could soon become the dominant source of electricity in the U.S.
References: [1] SEIA. (2025). U.S. Solar Market Insight Report: Q1 2025. Retrieved from https://www.seia.org/research-resources/us-solar-market-insight-report
[2] Wood Mackenzie. (2025). U.S. Solar Market Trends Q1 2025. Retrieved from https://www.woodmac.com/content/dam/woodmac/documents/Power-Renewables/Solar-Photovoltaics/US-Solar-Market-Trends-Q1-2025.pdf
[3] Energy Information Administration. (2025). Monthly Electric Generator Inventory Report - May 2025. Retrieved from https://www.eia.gov/electricity/monthly/epm_table_grid.php
[4] EnergySage. (2025). Solar Energy in the U.S.: May 2025 Update. Retrieved from https://news.energysage.com/solar-energy-in-the-u-s-may-2025-update/
- Electric vehicles (EVs) are poised to benefit from the growing use of green energy, as the renewable-energy industry expands and the need for clean transportation solutions increases.
- Financing options for renewable-energy projects in the industry are becoming more accessible, as traditional finance entities recognize the long-term benefits of investing in solar and other forms of green energy.
- The further growth of solar energy and other renewable sources will not only contribute to a greener U.S. electricity mix but also create new opportunities for job growth and technological innovation within the renewable-energy industry.
