💡US Grid Energy Use Rises 2%, Solar Growth Slows
Solar's explosive growth is cooling off, but renewables still dominate
TL;DR
US grid energy use is up 2% year-over-year, with solar growth slowing despite federal hostility. Wind and solar now cover 21% of demand, with renewables at 27% overall.
US grid energy use is up 2% year-over-year, with solar growth slowing down to 12% year-over-year. Despite federal hostility towards renewables, wind and solar now cover 21% of demand, with renewables overall at 27%. This shift is significant for developers and businesses relying on renewable energy sources. Through September 2026, solar generated 48 terawatt-hours more than the previous year, while wind increased by 6%. The Energy Information Agency expects non-carbon-emitting sources to cover 45% of US electricity use by the end of 2026.
Key Points
US grid energy use up 2% year-over-year, demand up 3% compared to two years ago
Solar growth slowed to 12% year-over-year, despite federal hostility towards renewables
Wind and solar now cover 21% of US electricity demand, renewables at 27% overall
Through September 2026, solar generated 48 terawatt-hours more than the previous year
Two large offshore wind projects will be completed off the East Coast, including a 2.6 GW monster off Virginia
Why It Matters
If you're relying on renewable energy sources, the shift in US grid energy use is significant. Through September 2026, solar generated 48 terawatt-hours more than the previous year, while wind increased by 6%. Despite federal hostility, renewables now cover 27% of demand, with non-carbon-emitting sources expected to cover 45% by the end of 2026. This trend impacts businesses and developers relying on renewable energy.
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