Solar generates more energy in US than coal for first time

Solar power supplied more U.S. electricity than coal for the first time in May 2024, generating 12.8% compared to coal's 12.2%, according to data from energy analysts Ember and the Solar Energy Industries Association. Solar has now become the third-largest electricity source in the U.S. behind natural gas and nuclear, marking continued growth in renewable energy despite the Trump administration's efforts to support the coal industry. Analysts expect solar to continue exceeding coal generation in coming months and surpass it on an annual basis within a few years.