In 2024, the United States experienced unprecedented growth in its renewable energy capacity, reaching 48.2 gigawatts thanks to the massive deployment of solar energy, wind energy, and battery storage. However, this momentum is threatened by Donald Trump’s attacks on federal support for clean energy, raising questions about the future of this crucial sector for American energy competitiveness.
The electric growth and its economic impact
In 2024, the capacity of renewable energy in the United States witnessed unprecedented growth. This development is supported by the implementation of the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, which has accelerated the adoption of green technologies through significant financial incentives. The declining costs of solar and wind technologies have also stimulated investments in these sectors, allowing for new installations across the country. According to a report by Cleanview, the country activated 48.2 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity, enough to power approximately 3.6 million homes.
Political threats under the Trump administration
Despite these advances, the future of renewable energy in the United States remains uncertain under the Trump administration, which has implemented a series of executive orders to curtail federal support. These actions risk not only harming domestic growth but also compromising America’s competitive position in the global clean energy market. Experts warn that limiting investments in this area could slow down innovation and job creation, with solar and wind leading the way.
Progress and obstacles for wind energy
The American wind energy industry faces numerous challenges. Rising material costs and increasing interest rates have slowed growth, while supply chains remain disrupted since the Covid-19 pandemic. Additionally, the construction of new transmission lines, essential for delivering energy from production areas to large cities, is facing significant restrictions due to bureaucracy. These obstacles hinder the ability of renewable energies to advance in the face of the necessary expansion to achieve true energy independence.
