Story perspectives

Solar Overtakes Coal as Trump Pledges $700M Aid

6/13/2026

Summary

Solar Surpasses Coal

In May 2026, solar generated 12.8% of U.S. electricity, overtaking coal’s 12.2% for the first time.
Solar output hit a record 45.5 TWh, a 17% rise from May 2025.
President Donald Trump announced a $700 million coal aid package, including $500 million to extend 14 plants and $200 million for new plants in Alaska and Virginia.
The Solar Energy Industries Association reported 7.8 GW of new solar capacity added in Q1 2026, raising total installations above 6 million.

Summary

AI Fuels Solar

AI data centers are prompting utilities and technology firms to secure more solar power, accelerating the shift in electricity sourcing.
Solar plus storage accounted for 91% of new U.S. capacity added in the first quarter of 2026.
Ember analyst Nicolas Fulghum called the development a structural change in the U.S. power system.

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Solar Surpasses Coal

In May 2026, solar generated 12.8% of U.S. electricity, overtaking coal’s 12.2% for the first time.
Solar output hit a record 45.5 TWh, a 17% rise from May 2025.
President Donald Trump announced a $700 million coal aid package, including $500 million to extend 14 plants and $200 million for new plants in Alaska and Virginia.
The Solar Energy Industries Association reported 7.8 GW of new solar capacity added in Q1 2026, raising total installations above 6 million.

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