Wind and Solar Power Surpass Coal in Historic Energy Shift

In a significant shift in the U.S. energy landscape, wind and solar power accounted for 17% of total electricity generation in 2024, surpassing coal, which fell to a historic low of 15%.

This trend, noted in a recent report by the global energy think tank Ember, underscores a powerful move toward cleaner energy sources as states increasingly turn away from coal.

Since its peak in 2007, coal has been outpaced by renewables in 24 states, with Illinois being the latest to make this transition.

Electricity demand has seen a resurgence in 2024: rising by 3%

Electricity demand has seen a resurgence in 2024, rising by 3%, marking the fifth-highest increase recorded this century. This uptick in demand is attributed to several factors, including the rise of electric vehicles, air conditioning, and expanding data centers.

In contrast, while coal generation has declined, natural gas experienced a modest increase, although it raised power sector CO2 emissions slightly. Notably, the carbon intensity of electricity has decreased, indicating that the average unit of electricity generated is now cleaner than ever.

Solar power emerged as the fastest-growing energy source, contributing an impressive 64 terawatt-hours (TWh) of generation in 2024, overtaking natural gas generation growth of 59 TWh. Solar accounted for an astounding 81% of all new power capacity additions in the U.S., revealing the technology’s competitiveness.

States like California and Nevada recorded solar energy shares exceeding 30% for the first time, fueled by technological advances in battery storage that help manage energy supply throughout the day.

Despite this progress, the growth of wind energy remained modest, with a 7% increase in generation. As the battle between solar and gas intensifies to meet rising electricity demand, experts such as Ember’s chief analyst Dave Jones emphasize the pressing need for accelerated clean energy infrastructure.

They argue that renewable sources like solar and wind can maintain energy affordability and security in the long run, prompting a shift that may define the future of the U.S. energy industry.