In a groundbreaking achievement, the United States has now exceeded 5 million solar installations, marking a significant milestone in the country’s transition towards clean energy. The data released by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Wood Mackenzie reveals that this milestone has been reached just eight years after the US celebrated its first million installations in 2016, demonstrating a remarkable acceleration in solar adoption compared to the previous four decades.
What?
Since the onset of 2020, over half of all solar installations in the US have been activated, with more than 25% coming online since the implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act 20 months ago. These installations include solar arrays on residential and commercial properties as well as large-scale solar farms. The US solar market’s value has soared to $51 billion in 2023, underlining the sector’s rapid growth.
Why does it matter?
SEIA’s president and CEO, Abigail Ross Hopper, envisions a future where over 15% of homes in the US will have solar power by 2030. She emphasizes that solar energy is increasingly becoming a dominant electricity source, enhancing air quality and public health. Market forecasts predict a doubling of solar installations to 10 million by 2030 and tripling to 15 million by 2034, showcasing a promising trajectory for the sector.
The residential segment represents 97% of all solar installations in the US, with notable year-over-year growth attributed to its cost-saving benefits for homeowners. Although California leads with 2 million installations, other states like Illinois and Florida are experiencing rapid adoption rates, with significant increases in solar installations over the past few years.
How is it going to shape the future?
By 2030, 22 states are projected to surpass 100,000 solar installations each, indicating widespread growth potential across the country. Innovations like DC-to-DC solar-powered electric vehicle chargers and battery storage systems further enhance the resilience and efficiency of solar energy solutions for consumers. Platforms like EnergySage are facilitating the transition to solar by connecting consumers with reputable installers, offering competitive pricing and expert guidance.
As the US continues to embrace solar energy as a cornerstone of its clean energy strategy, the trajectory toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future is further solidified. The exponential growth in solar installations not only signifies a shift towards renewable energy sources but also paves the way for a brighter, more energy-efficient tomorrow.
Source: https://electrek.co/2024/05/15/us-exceeds-5-million-solar-installations/