For the first time in history, solar energy has surpassed coal in the United States energy mix. According to an analysis of government data by the energy think tank Ember, solar power accounted for 12.8 percent of the nation’s electricity in May, while coal contributed 12.2 percent. This milestone highlights the rapid expansion of solar technology, which has more than doubled its share of the grid over the last five years. Despite ongoing political efforts to bolster the coal industry, experts suggest that the long-term trend toward renewable energy remains firmly in place.
The shift represents a significant evolution for the U.S. power system, where solar has transitioned from a niche contributor to the third-largest and fastest-growing source of electricity. Nicolas Fulghum, a senior data analyst at Ember, noted that markets across the country are increasingly relying on solar to address rising power demands. This growth persists even as the current administration pursues policies aimed at supporting fossil fuels, including a recent $700 million investment package directed toward the coal industry and the development of new coal-fired power plants.
While coal generation saw a slight increase in May compared to the previous month, the broader trajectory for the industry remains downward. Critics of the administration’s coal-focused spending, such as Evergreen Action executive director Lena Moffitt, have characterized these efforts as ineffective bailouts for a declining sector. Conversely, industry advocates like National Mining Association CEO Rich Nolan argue that coal remains a necessary component for energy price stability.
Despite a slight dip in new installations during 2025, solar energy continues to dominate the market, representing more than half of all newly installed electricity capacity. Industry experts and environmental advocates expect this momentum to continue, citing the economic and health benefits of transitioning to renewable sources. As the grid continues to integrate more solar modules and PV technology, the shift away from traditional fossil fuels appears to be a sustained trend that persists regardless of shifting political landscapes.