America's energy landscape is undergoing a historic transformation. According to new data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), solar, wind, and battery storage will account for a staggering 99.2% of all new generating capacity added to the nation's power grid in 2026.
This marks a watershed moment in American energy history. Just years ago, natural gas and coal dominated new power plant construction. Today, clean energy has not only caught up — it has become virtually the only game in town.
Solar Leads the Charge
Solar power is experiencing explosive growth. In November 2025 alone, utility-scale solar generation surged by 33.9% compared to the previous year. Rooftop solar installations also climbed 11%, bringing total solar to 7.2% of all US electricity generation.
By November 2026, combined solar capacity is projected to reach 247,535 megawatts — surpassing wind, coal, and more than doubling nuclear power capacity.
Battery Storage: The Game Changer
Perhaps the most dramatic shift is in battery storage, which has grown 49.4% since the start of 2025. Energy storage solves renewables' biggest challenge: providing power when the sun isn't shining and the wind isn't blowing.
With 21,502 MW of new battery capacity planned for 2026 alone, America is building the infrastructure needed for a truly renewable grid.
Wind Keeps Blowing Strong
Wind turbines generated 10.1% of US electricity in the first 11 months of 2025. Together, wind and solar now produce more electricity than coal and nuclear power combined.
Offshore wind is also gaining momentum, with 1,515 MW of new ocean-based capacity planned for 2026 — despite political headwinds.
What This Means
This shift isn't just about climate — it's about economics. Solar and wind are now the cheapest forms of new electricity generation, even without subsidies. Utilities are choosing clean energy because it makes financial sense.
The trend also demonstrates remarkable resilience against political opposition. Despite efforts to slow renewable growth, market forces and state policies have kept the momentum going.
"For more than a year now, members of the Trump administration have sought to stop the growth of wind and solar … and have failed," said Ken Bossong, executive director of the SUN DAY Campaign. "Perhaps it is time for them to finally recognize renewable energy's unstoppable growth."
The Future Is Bright
The numbers tell a clear story: America's energy future is renewable. As battery technology improves and costs continue to fall, the transition will only accelerate.
For millions of Americans, this means cleaner air, stable electricity prices, and new jobs in the booming green energy sector. The fossil fuel era isn't ending because of mandates — it's ending because there's something better.
