U.S. Marks a Milestone as Renewables Surpass Coal in Electricity Generation for the First Time – EQ
In Short : In 2024, wind and solar power overtook coal as the leading sources of electricity in the U.S., with renewables generating 17% of the nation’s power compared to coal’s 15%. This shift is driven by falling costs, federal incentives, and state policies supporting clean energy. Despite challenges, the U.S. is projected to continue its renewable energy transition with 93% of new capacity from renewables by 2025.
In Detail : In 2024, the United States achieved a major milestone in its energy transition as wind and solar power collectively surpassed coal in electricity generation. For the first time, renewable energy sources generated more electricity than coal, with wind and solar together accounting for 17% of the nation’s power. Meanwhile, coal’s share fell to a record low of just 15%, according to Ember, a global energy think tank.
The growth of renewable energy has been a key factor in this shift. Solar power led the charge, increasing by 64 terawatt-hours (TWh), while wind generation grew by 32 TWh. In contrast, coal generation declined by 22 TWh, reflecting the accelerating adoption of cleaner energy sources. This shift marks a critical moment in the U.S. energy landscape, signaling a move toward more sustainable electricity generation.
Natural gas remains the dominant source of electricity in the U.S., accounting for 43% of the nation’s power. However, the rise of renewable energy has been supported by a combination of declining technology costs, federal incentives, and state-level policies aimed at promoting clean energy solutions. These factors have made renewables more competitive and accessible, further driving their growth.
In addition to providing cleaner energy, the expansion of renewables has spurred job creation. Nearly 150,000 new positions were added in clean energy sectors in 2024, outpacing overall employment growth in the country. States like California and Nevada have been leading the way, with solar power accounting for more than 30% of their electricity mix, demonstrating the potential for widespread adoption across the nation.
Despite the progress in renewable energy, some challenges remain. A few policymakers have called for the revival of coal, citing increased electricity demand from data centers and the rise of artificial intelligence. In April 2025, former President Donald Trump signed executive orders aimed at revitalizing the coal industry, including efforts to keep older plants operational and speed up coal leases on federal lands.
Nonetheless, the trend toward renewable energy seems irreversible. With projections showing that 93% of new electricity capacity in 2025 will come from renewable sources and battery storage, the U.S. is set to continue its transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. This momentum reflects the growing global shift toward decarbonization and the increasing role of renewable energy in shaping a more sustainable economy.
