Solar energy hits major milestone in the US
April 22, 2013Solar energy sets a new record in March
March signifies a monumental occasion in the U.S. in terms of renewable energy. The country has been showing more support for various forms of renewable energy, backed by growing concerns over climate change, national security, and energy availability. Solar energy, in particular, has become one of the major focuses of the U.S. government, as far as clean power in concerned. In March of this year, solar energy helped the U.S. reach a significant milestone in its support of renewable energy.
Report shows solar energy accounted for 100% of new power for the US energy grid in March
A new report from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission notes that solar energy accounted for 100% of new utility electricity generation added to the country’s energy grid in March. This is the first time solar energy, or any other form of renewable power, has accounted for the entirety of new energy installation in a single month. The report cites seven solar energy projects for their major contribution to this feat. These projects are located in California, Nevada, New Jersey, Hawaii, Arizona, and North Carolina. Together, the projects added 44 megawatts of solar energy capacity to the country’s energy grid.
44MW added to energy grid in March
The report notes that no energy from other projects were added to the U.S. energy grid in March. Solar energy was the sole source of new electrical power being introduced to the grid during this time. While the addition of 44 megawatts of electrical power to the energy grid may not seem like a significant amount, the fact that this energy was provided entirely by renewable energy systems is likely to bring more support to the solar power field.
Support for solar energy continues to grow
Solar energy has already been receiving more support from the federal government and the private sector. There are several solar energy projects that have taken form throughout the country, many of which have not yet reached completion and remain in developmental stages. In the coming years, solar energy is expected to begin outpacing more conventional forms of power as the country begins showing more support for sustainability and the use of clean forms of energy.