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For the first time, solar power generated more electricity in the US than coal in May, marking a milestone in the country's energy transition. The milestone underscores solar's growth despite federal policies favoring coal, with solar and battery storage now dominating new power generation.
In the first quarter of 2026, US solar and hydroelectric growth pushed coal off the grid, with solar output up 24% and overall renewable growth outpacing demand, leading to a 10% drop in coal use.
US automakers like Ford and GM are pivoting from struggling EV programs to battery energy storage systems, repurposing plants and forming partnerships to supply utilities and data centers, with Ford's new Ford Energy subsidiary driving a 13% stock surge.
Research shows that sulfur dioxide aerosols from coal burning reduce solar power production by up to 7.7% in regions with high coal usage, offsetting growth in countries like China. The study highlights an additional incentive to transition away from coal.