More Than 10 GW Of Solar Installed In America In 2018

2018 was another strong year for the solar power industry in the United States.

Last year was the third year in a row that the country installed gigawatts of solar in double-digits. A total of 10.6 GW of solar PV (photovoltaics aka solar panels) were completed, bringing the total amount in the U.S. to 64.2 gigawatts. While this actually was a 2 percent decline from 2017, there are signs that the residential market is rebounding. Actually, over the next five years, we can expect a significant amount of new solar (details below).

The CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association, Abigail Ross Harper, has stated – “The solar industry experienced growing pains in 2018, in large part due to the unnecessary tariffs that were imposed on solar cells and modules, but this report still finds significant reason for optimism. The total amount of solar installed in America is on track to more than double in the next five years, proving solar’s resiliency and its economic strength. It’s clear, this next decade is going to be one of significant growth.”

Source: Wood Mackenzie Power and Renewables

A few key facts and figures from SEIA’s report include;

  • Q4 2018 saw an additional 4.2 GW installed.
  • Solar was a top source of new electrical generation for 6 straight years.
  • A total of 6.2 GW of utility-scale solar was added in 2018. This was 58 percent of new energy capacity.
  • Over the next 5 years, total solar capacity will double.

Installations are expected to increase by 14 percent in 2019, with the industry maintaining at least 15 GW of installed solar capacity every year after.

The primary indicator that the residential market is back on track relates to the fact that the fourth quarter of 2018 was the strongest quarter over the past 2 years. More than 300,000 households installed solar panels in 2018. In addition to the solar powerhouse state of California, other states that did especially well last year included Nevada, Texas, and Florida.

As a total of new electrical capacity added in the U.S. in 2018, solar PV accounted for a significant 29 percent. This number is bound to increase quite a bit as more than 13 GW of utility-scale solar contracts were signed in 2018. This figure represents the largest amount of potential capacity in the solar pipeline. Renewable portfolio standards and increasing corporate interests help explain this upcoming boost to the solar industry.

In conclusion, the U.S. solar industry is looking strong after an upswing in installations to close out 2018. The market is adjusting to tariffs, experiencing a more diversified field of contractors, and continuing to take advantage of the low cost of solar power.

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4 Responses to More Than 10 GW Of Solar Installed In America In 2018

  1. Dropkick says:

    In conclusion, the installation of more than 10 GW of solar power in America in 2018 is a significant milestone in the country’s transition towards renewable energy. This achievement demonstrates the growing popularity and feasibility of solar energy as a sustainable and clean power source. With the increasing awareness of climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the rapid growth of solar installations indicates a positive shift towards a greener future. It is encouraging to see such progress in the adoption of solar energy, and it is hoped that this trend will continue to accelerate in the coming years.

  2. NoiseCake says:

    In conclusion, the installation of more than 10 GW of solar power in America in 2018 marks a significant milestone in the country’s transition towards clean and renewable energy sources. This achievement not only demonstrates the growing popularity and affordability of solar technology but also highlights the commitment of individuals, businesses, and governments to combat climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. With solar power becoming an increasingly viable option, the future looks bright for a sustainable and greener America.

  3. Intimidating Presence says:

    In conclusion, the installation of more than 10 GW of solar power in America in 2018 marks a significant milestone in the country’s renewable energy transition. This achievement demonstrates the growing recognition of solar energy as a viable and sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. With the continued investment and advancements in solar technology, it is expected that solar installations will continue to increase in the coming years, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future for America.

  4. Intimidating Presence says:

    In conclusion, the installation of over 10 GW of solar power in America in 2018 is a significant achievement and a positive step towards a more sustainable future. This substantial growth in solar energy capacity demonstrates the increasing adoption and acceptance of renewable energy sources in the country. It not only contributes to reducing carbon emissions but also creates jobs and stimulates economic growth. As the demand for clean energy continues to rise, it is crucial to further invest in solar power and other renewable technologies to ensure a greener and more resilient energy system for years to come.

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