US Solar Energy Growth Projected to Surge in 2024
Solar generation in the U.S. is projected to increase by a substantial 34% in 2024 to 365 billion kilowatt-hours, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). This growth stems from a rise in solar installations across the country.
This expansion mirrors a broader global trend, with total solar capacity expected to reach a stunning 2.2 terawatts in 2024 (PVKnowhow). The momentum is poised to continue, as further forecasts for 2025 suggest a potential 35% increase in U.S. solar capacity (PVKnowhow).
Factors Driving Solar Energy Growth
Several key factors are driving the rise in solar installations. These include falling panel prices, supportive government policies like tax credits and incentives, and growing consumer demand for clean energy.
A decreasing reliance on natural gas also plays a role as the broader shift toward sustainability gains momentum. However, challenges to widespread adoption remain, and reports highlight critical barriers that need to be addressed to accelerate the transition (PVKnowhow).
Community Solar: Expanding Access to Clean Energy
The growth of solar energy isn’t limited to large-scale projects; community solar initiatives are also playing an increasingly important role in expanding access to renewable energy.
For instance, a 2.9 MW community solar project in Gainesville, New York, will provide clean energy to approximately 340 homes, demonstrating the potential of these localized efforts. This project utilizes American-made solar panels, reflecting a growing emphasis on domestic manufacturing in the renewable energy sector.
This focus on local production and community-based projects helps stimulate local economies, strengthen domestic supply chains, and enhance the overall impact of the solar industry’s growth.