Record-breaking solar power installations are good news for avoiding summer power outages
As the risk of energy shortages increases in parts of the United States this summer, the country is also installing record numbers of solar power plants. This is a milestone that could be good news for avoiding seasonal power outages.
according to data There are now more than 5 million solar installations in the United States, up from 1 million in 2016, according to the Solar Energy Industry Association. SEIA predicts that 10 million solar installations will be installed by 2030 and 15 million by 2034.
“Currently, 7% of U.S. homes have solar power installed, and this number will grow to more than 15% of U.S. homes by 2030,” said SEIA CEO Abigail Ross Hopper. he said. Electrek. “Solar power is quickly becoming the primary source of power on the grid, enabling communities to breathe cleaner air and live healthier lives.”
of Department of Energy It says using solar power lowers electricity bills and increases the resiliency of the power grid. It is a renewable energy source that reduces carbon emissions and is crucial in fighting climate change.
read more: Energy shortages and power outages could occur in parts of the U.S. this summer
a Summer reliability evaluation The North American Electric Reliability Corporation warns that much of the country, and all of North America, could face supply shortages, but other regions are at lower risk due to the addition of clean energy resources.
read more: Best solar panels for homes in 2024
NERC noted in its assessment that “expected widespread thermal events impacting electricity generation, wind power, and transmission systems, combined with increased demand in some regions, will contribute to resource and transmission adequacy risks. ” “All regions are assessed as having sufficient supply for typical peak loads, mainly thanks to a record 25GW.” [gigawatt] Additional solar capacity has been added since last year. However, energy risks are increasing in some regions when solar, wind, and hydropower outputs are low. ”
read more: Power outage safety guide: Why power outages happen and how to prepare for them.
The growing field of home energy technology is creating more interesting options for consumers preparing to switch to solar power. New innovations seen at CES in January included stained glass solar panels, portable whole-home backup batteries, power stations with swappable batteries, pop-up tents with built-in solar panels, and more. . Solar windows are also on the horizon, with new technology potentially changing the entire way we power our homes.