Coal Is Rising Along with Solar in the U.S. Power System, While Gas Loses a Step

AI generated summary

In the first half of 2023, coal and utility-scale solar power gained market share in the U.S. electricity generation sector, while natural gas saw a decline. Analysts attribute this shift primarily to rising natural gas prices, making coal a more affordable option for some power plant operators. Despite the Trump administration's recent efforts to support coal plants, the overall trend indicates a long-term decline in coal usage as renewables and natural gas continue to replace it.

Utility-scale solar power is experiencing significant growth, particularly in states like California and Texas, which are nearly tied for the top position in solar generation. Other states such as Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana have also doubled their solar generation compared to the previous year. While small-scale solar projects are growing, they play a crucial role in reducing demand on the grid. Overall, the fossil fuel market share is on a downward trend, with renewables expected to continue gaining ground in the coming years.