Renewables projected to reach 37.4% of U.S. capacity

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has released new data showing a strong future for renewable energy sources like solar and wind. By February 2028, renewables are expected to make up 37.4% of all utility-scale generating capacity. This places them just behind natural gas, which is projected at 40.2%. In January 2025, solar and wind together contributed over 98% of new electrical capacity in the U.S. Solar alone accounted for more than two-thirds of this new capacity. This marked the 17th consecutive month that solar was the largest source of new energy. In total, 63 solar projects added 2,945 megawatts of capacity, alongside five new wind projects that added 1,301 megawatts. Natural gas and oil provided only minor contributions of 60 and 11 megawatts respectively. The solar capacity added was more than double the amount from a year ago. Currently, solar and wind together account for 22.3% of utility-scale generating capacity in the U.S. If smaller solar systems, such as rooftop panels, are included, this share could be even greater. FERC estimates that by early 2028, solar will account for about 16.2% of total capacity, surpassing coal. FERC's projections indicate that renewable energy will continue to grow rapidly, while coal and oil capacities are expected to decline. Despite challenges posed by the current administration's policies, the growth of renewables shows significant momentum and potential for the future.