Soaring solar and a surge in hydro push more coal off the US grid
Summary
In early 2026, U.S. electricity demand grew slightly, while solar and hydro power production increased significantly. This growth in renewable energy led to a notable drop in coal use, although natural gas use rose a bit.Key Facts
- U.S. electricity demand grew by 1.5% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same time in 2025.
- Solar power production increased by 24% year-over-year, offsetting most of the rising demand.
- Overall renewable energy (wind, solar, hydro) grew by 11%, which is faster than the demand growth.
- Coal use dropped by over 10%, while natural gas use increased slightly in the same period.
- Hydroelectric production rose 22%, likely due to warm western weather causing earlier snowmelt, not new dams.
- Fossil fuels still provide about half of U.S. electricity, with renewables supplying more than a quarter.
- When adding nuclear power, clean energy sources make up nearly half the U.S. electricity supply.
- The ongoing growth of renewables is pushing coal out of the U.S. power grid.
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