Solar accounts for 30 percent of new energy in U.S. so far this year

By Bret Fanshaw

June 8, 2017

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WASHINGTON, DC – A new analysis released today by SEIA/GTM Research shows that solar remains a growing part America’s energy mix so far in 2017, accounting for 30 percent of new energy capacity installed.

California, North Carolina and Arizona rank as the top three states for solar installations during that time.

The report comes as President Trump withdraws the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement and as dozens of state and local leaders double down on their commitments to climate action and renewable energy.

According to SEIA, the U.S. now has nearly 15 times more solar energy capacity installed than in 2010, with enough solar to power the equivalent of over 8.7 million homes and reduce 55 million metric tons of carbon emissions annually.

The solar industry is expected to nearly triple in the next five years, as demand for clean energy grows and costs continue to fall.

The data comes from the quarterly U.S. Solar Market Insight Report by SEIA/GTM Research.

Environment America solar program coordinator Bret Fanshaw released the following statement in reaction to today’s report:

“The data released today is clear: solar power continues to boom across America.

“If state and local leaders keep stepping up their commitments to solar power, our country’s health and environment will benefit from cleaner air, water and a safer climate.

“These figures also show that even while President Trump withdraws from the Paris Climate Agreement and unwisely rolls back American commitments to act on climate change, state and local governments, businesses and institutions stand ready to ramp up renewable energy at record speed.

“In order to reach 100 percent renewable energy, we can and must continue the wave of solar adoption currently underway in our communities.

“We urge state and local leaders across the nation to stand with us for a clean, bright solar future.”