Following 35% growth, solar has passed hydro on US grid
Ars Technica
by
John Timmer
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported that solar power in 2025 saw a remarkable 35% increase, surpassing hydroelectric power for the first time. While this marks a significant milestone in renewable energy adoption, it also comes amid rising electricity demand driven by factors like population growth and economic activity. Overall consumption rose by 2.8%, or about 121 terawatt-hours, with coal use contributing to meet much of this extra demand despite its declining trend over the years.
The shift in energy markets reflects a complex interplay of forces. While efficiency gains and industry declines had previously kept U.S. electricity consumption largely flat for decades, recent factors such as heating and cooling demands, the lingering impacts of the global pandemic, and a gradual shift toward technologies like heat pumps and electric vehicles have pushed up demand. These trends suggest that future energy needs will likely grow further as more sectors transition to electrification.
This development matters significantly for tech enthusiasts and industry watchers. The rapid expansion of solar power highlights the ongoing transformation of the energy landscape and the growing role of green energy in meeting U.S. electricity needs. However, the simultaneous increase in coal use raises questions about whether current efforts to decarbonize the grid are sufficient or if more aggressive policies will be needed to accelerate the shift toward cleaner energy sources.
The data also underscores the importance of tracking emerging trends like the electrification of transportation and the growth of data centers, which are poised to drive even higher electricity demand in the coming years. As these sectors evolve, they could either strain the grid further or help reduce emissions through more efficient technologies. The interplay between these forces will likely shape the future of energy markets and tech innovation in ways that warrant close attention.
In summary, while solar's 35% growth and its首次超越 hydroelectric power is a notable achievement, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges ahead in
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Originally published on Ars Technica on 2/24/2026