Clean energy is surging — with or without Trump
Despite efforts to prioritize fossil fuels, renewable energy sources are experiencing significant growth globally and within the United States. This surge is occurring even as the current administration adjusts energy policies.
Global Renewable Energy Expansion
Solar and wind electricity generation grew 109% worldwide last year, surpassing coal as a primary global energy source, according to an analysis by Ember Energy Research. Over 600 gigawatts of solar electricity were added globally, with China leading the expansion, followed by India, Brazil, Vietnam, the European Union, Kenya, and Mozambique. Experts in Africa note a trend toward bypassing fossil fuels altogether as the continent electrifies new regions and industries.
Investment Trends
Investment in clean energy—including storage, grid upgrades, efficiency measures, and electric vehicles—reached $2.2 trillion by the end of 2024. This figure is double the $1.1 trillion invested in new fossil fuel projects during the same period, according to the International Energy Agency.
U.S. Renewable Growth and Cost Factors
In the U.S., solar generation increased by 37% and wind generation by 12% last year. Renewables provided 24% of U.S. Electricity generation in 2024. The decline in the cost of solar and wind power is a key driver of this growth. Utility-scale solar generation costs fell 85% between 2010 and 2020, with further price reductions in 2023 and 2024.
Currently, utility-scale solar costs between four and eight cents per kilowatt-hour, even without subsidies. When combined with battery storage, costs range from five to thirteen cents per kilowatt-hour. In comparison, natural gas generates electricity at a cost of 13.8 to 26 cents per kilowatt-hour, while coal is even more expensive, according to PV Magazine and Lazard.
Future Outlook and Challenges
Battery storage deployment in the U.S. Doubled during 2024, enhancing the reliability of wind and solar power. However, changes in federal tax incentives and permitting for new projects could slow the adoption of renewables this year. The Solar Energy Industry Association warns that reversing course on these policies could jeopardize manufacturing growth, global competitiveness, and private investment.
Despite federal policies, 73% of new solar capacity added in the U.S. In 2025 was installed in Republican states, including Texas, Indiana, Florida, Arizona, Ohio, Utah, Kentucky, and Arkansas. Iowa currently derives 60% of its electricity from renewable sources, with wind energy accounting for 64% at certain times last year. Texas also saw renewable energy supply 40% of its electricity in early 2024.
Globally, the energy transition continues, particularly in Africa, where 18 countries added over 100 megawatts of solar power last year—a significant increase from just two countries the previous year. At least 10 African countries now generate more than 90% of their electricity from renewable sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of global electricity generation came from solar and wind last year?
Solar and wind electricity generation grew 109% worldwide last year, surpassing coal for the first time as a global energy supplier.
How much was invested in clean energy by the end of 2024?
Investment in new clean energy reached $2.2 trillion by the end of 2024, double the $1.1 trillion invested in new fossil fuels projects.
What is driving the growth of renewable energy?
The primary driver is the dramatic reduction in the cost of solar and wind generation, making them increasingly competitive with fossil fuels.
As renewable energy technologies continue to evolve and become more affordable, will these trends continue to accelerate, and what impact might policy decisions have on this trajectory?