Solar Growing for American Utility Grid

According to the 2021 Utility-Scale Solar Report published by the Lawrence Berkeley National Library, large solar installations delivering energy to the electrical grid are on the upswing.

During 2020, the sector boasted 14 gigawatts (GW), equivalent to 73 percent of all new solar power. Solar power was the second-largest source of electricity-generating capacity additions in 2020 for projects of all sizes. Wind power was first, at 42 percent, and natural gas third, with 19 percent.

The study said, “It was the year with the greatest utility-scale solar capacity expansion in the United States so far, representing a year-over-year growth of 65 percent.”

The report stated, “Utility-scale PV is well-represented throughout the nation, with the exception of upper-Midwestern states in the ‘wind belt. Recent recipients of new utility-scale solar projects in the north—Idaho and Minnesota—did not add new capacity in 2020, while Montana, the Dakotas, Iowa, New Hampshire, and West Virginia still await their first utility-scale solar projects.”

Strong growth in the utility-scale solar pipeline is anticipated, as 460 GW of solar projects in the queue existed at the end of 2020.

The authors wrote, “Solar – both standalone and in hybrid form – is by far the largest resources within these queues, roughly equal to the amount of wind, storage, and natural gas combined.”

Are you exploring solar panels for your home or business? Contact State Electric today to add some green energy to your utilities.

State Electric Company is a leader in the electrification of the nation. Our highly educated and experienced team of professionals uses industry-leading software technology and has partnered with manufacturers to deliver affordable solutions for all your electrical needs. State Electric Co. is also an exclusive distributor for Enel X JuiceBox EV chargers for residential and commercial use. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to install charging stations for homes, offices, hotels, and more. With our extensive knowledge in renewable energy, our team provides customers – large or small – with efficient electrical solutions. Contact us today to learn how we can safely and affordably meet your energy needs.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.