For the first time, wind and solar energy in the U.S. generated more power than coal last year, according to a new analysis. Despite the growth of renewable energy, U.S. emissions remained stable due to rising energy demand.
Wind and solar accounted for about 16% of U.S. power last year, slightly surpassing coal, based on a preliminary analysis by the Rhodium Group. Coal’s contribution to the power grid reached its lowest point since 1967. Natural gas remained the leading source of U.S. power, continuing to grow.
U.S. emissions saw a modest 0.2% decrease last year, leaving the country far from meeting its climate goals. To meet its 2030 target, U.S. emissions need to drop by 7.6% annually between 2025 and 2030 — a rate typically only seen during severe economic downturns.
A deeper look at emissions shows that manufacturing emissions decreased as output dropped, and methane emissions from oil and gas drilling were reduced. However, increased air conditioning use — during the hottest year on record globally — contributed to higher emissions from the power sector. Emissions from transportation also rose, driven by increased flight and road traffic, although the growing adoption of electric cars helped offset some of the impact from automobiles.
Analysts suggest that clean energy adoption will continue to accelerate under current U.S. climate policies. However, the incoming Trump administration plans to reverse renewable energy incentives and dismantle regulations on fossil fuels, which could move the U.S. further from its climate goals.
Related Topics:
- Why Is Solar Better Than Wind?
- Why Are Solar Panels Better Than Wind Turbines?
- What is the Material of Solar Panels?