Solar energy supplied more electricity than coal across the United States in May, according to an analysis of government data. The milestone reflects the rapid growth of renewables even amid shifting federal policies.
Solar contributed 12.8 percent of the nation's electricity in May, while coal provided 12.2 percent. This marks the first month on record when solar exceeded coal, based on an Ember analysis. Five years earlier, solar supplied less than half its current share and coal stood at 20 percent. Nicolas Fulghum, senior data analyst at Ember, said the shift shows solar moving from a niche source to the third-largest and fastest-growing power source. He noted that markets from Texas to California are turning to solar to meet rising demand. The data emerged the same month the Trump administration announced $700 million in funding for coal industry investments, including support for the country's first new coal-fired plants in 13 years. President Trump described the move as historic action to lower energy prices with clean coal. Coal generation rose slightly from April's record low but remains on a long-term decline. Experts expect solar installations to continue growing despite a dip in 2025 compared with 2024.