The energy revolution in the United States in 2024
In 2024, the United States reached a historic milestone by adding a renewable energy capacity equivalent to that of Argentina, thereby underscoring their commitment to a more sustainable future. This expansion was particularly felt with the impressive addition of 49 GW of solar capacity. This is a record, as for the first time, renewable energies represented more than 1,000 TWh of the total electricity production in the United States in a single year. Thanks to this advancement, solar installations continue to be an essential pillar in the global quest for clean energy.
The rise of solar energy and other renewables
The spectacular rise of solar energy in 2024 in the United States has captured global attention. With an additional photovoltaic capacity of 32 GW, solar has become the main contributor to new installations. This momentum was supported by the strategic introduction of 15.3 GW of new battery capacities, thus boosting the storage of renewable energy. Texas and Florida, two leaders in this transition, accounted for 38% of new solar installations, highlighting the importance of these regions in the American energy landscape.
The economic and environmental impact
Beyond the technical aspects, this advancement with the massive addition of renewable energies has had tangible economic repercussions. Electricity demand saw a decrease of 2.2% compared to 2022, while GDP increased by 2.4%, demonstrating that economic growth is compatible with a reduction in carbon footprint. Moreover, renewable energy now accounts for over 30% of the total electricity production capacity in the United States. This trend is expected to amplify to 37% by 2027, forever changing the energy landscape of the nation. The efforts of the United States, supported by initiatives such as the integration of batteries from industrial waste, show that the transition to renewable energies is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the economy.
