Is solar's growth finally slowing in the US?
Summary
Solar power in the U.S. continued to grow in early 2026, but the rate of increase has slowed compared to previous years. Solar and wind together now provide enough new electricity to cover the rising demand, while coal use has declined.Key Facts
- Electricity use in the U.S. rose by 2 percent in early 2026, slower than the 3 percent rise the previous year.
- Solar power generation increased by 22 percent through September 2026, a slower growth rate than before (over 30 percent in earlier years).
- Solar power produced 72 percent as much electricity as coal in the first seven months of 2026.
- Coal electricity generation dropped by over 10 percent compared to the previous year.
- Wind power rose by 6 percent, hydro power by 9 percent, nuclear and natural gas each less than 2 percent.
- Wind and solar together now supply 21 percent of U.S. electricity demand.
- The combined growth of wind and solar added more electricity than the total increase in demand, meaning new demand can be met with renewables.
- Federal policy changes have removed incentives for renewables, which may have contributed to the slower solar growth.
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