Solar accounted for most of the capacity the nation added to its electric grids last year. That feat marks the first time since World War II, when hydropower was booming, that a renewable power source has comprised more than half of the nation’s energy additions.“It’s really monumental,” said Shawn Rumery, senior director of research at the Solar Energy Industries Association, or SEIA. The trade group announced the 2023 numbers inof 23.
6 gigawatts recorded in 2021 and accounted for 53% of new capacity. Natural gas was next in line at a distant 18%.Solar accounted for most of the capacity the nation added to its electric grids last year. That feat marks the first time since World War II, when hydropower was booming, that a renewable power source has comprised more than half of the nation’s energy additions. Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future. “It’s really monumental,” said Shawn Rumery, senior director of research at the Solar Energy Industries Association, or SEI