Solar energy to account for 100% new energy capacity in California in second half of 2013

Solar energy continues to be a strong focus for California

Renewable energy has become a top priority in the U.S., with the federal government devoting a significant amount of attention to cleaner forms of power. California is among the leading states in the country that have adopted a strong advocacy for renewable energy. Much of the state’s focus has been centered on solar energy and California has become a leader in the solar energy sector and has remained so for several years. Now, the state’s focus seems to be paying off significantly, as solar energy may soon account for the majority of California’s energy in the future.

State is increasing its efforts in the clean energy sector

California has been focusing its efforts on promoting the benefits of solar energy and pushing to expand the use of this form of renewable energy. As the state devotes more of its resources to solar energy, other forms of clean power are becoming less popular. According to a recent report from the California Independent System Operator, solar energy is beginning to eclipse other forms of energy. The report suggests that a total of 1,633 megawatts of solar energy capacity are to come online in the second half of 2013. This would account for 100% of new energy capacity in the state for this time period.

Report highlights growth of solar energy

The report suggests that solar energy will be the all-encompassing focus of the state for the second half of this year. California has not been solely focused on solar energy, of course, as it has also been showing its support for wind energy, natural gas, and other, less conventional forms of clean power. The report shows that much of the first half of this year has been and will continue to be devoted to natural gas, which may be linked to the state’s strong support for clean transportation and the use of hydrogen fuel cells in the auto industry.

Other forms of clean power may not live up to state’s standards

New solar energy systems coming online are likely to benefit from many of the initiatives that exist in the state that are meant to support this form of clean power. The report may show that California is beginning to move away from other forms of renewable energy simply because these are not an adequate fit for the state’s energy needs. Solar energy has, so far, proven to be the most accommodating form of renewable energy that the state has invested in.