The US Had a Big Battery Boom Last Year

Wired

by Molly Taft

February 23, 2026

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The U.S. experienced a historic surge in battery storage capacity in 2025, marking a rare bright spot in the renewable energy landscape during a presidency that has openly opposed clean energy initiatives. According to a report by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the country added an impressive 57 gigawatt-hours of new energy storage to its grid last year—a nearly 30% increase from 2024. This growth highlights how utilities are adapting to rising energy demand and signals a shift toward more efficient grid management. The report also revealed that battery storage installations are no longer tied exclusively to solar projects, with standalone batteries becoming increasingly common. This trend is particularly significant as it addresses the challenge of underutilized grid capacity. U.S. grids typically operate at only 50% capacity on average, leaving a large amount of unused energy during off-peak hours. By integrating storage solutions, utilities can store excess energy and deploy it when demand peaks, optimizing the existing infrastructure without costly upgrades. Texas emerged as a key player in this battery boom, with its independent power grid enabling rapid growth in solar and battery storage. The state surpassed California in 2025 to become the leading U.S. market for energy storage. This success is partly due to Texas' deregulated energy market, which allows for greater innovation and competition compared to other states. Despite federal resistance to renewable energy, Texas' grid has thrived by prioritizing market-driven solutions. The resilience of battery storage growth is particularly noteworthy given the Trump administration's efforts to cut funding for wind and solar tax credits. While these initiatives faced significant backlash, battery storage tax incentives remained intact, allowing the sector to flourish even in politically challenging environments. This underscores the importance of financial incentives in driving renewable energy adoption, regardless of broader political sentiment. As demand for clean energy continues to rise, the U.S. grid is poised for further transformation. The SEIA report predicts a 21% increase in battery storage capacity by 2026, with standalone installations playing a crucial role

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Originally published on Wired on 2/23/2026