As parts of the United States face increased risks of energy shortages this summer, the country is also seeing a record number of solar installations. This is a milestone that could lead to good news for avoiding seasonal power outages.
According to data released by the Solar Energy Industries Association, the number of solar installations in the United States currently exceeds 5 million, compared with 1 million in 2016. .
“Today, 7% of U.S. households have solar power, and by 2030, that number will grow to more than 15% of U.S. households,” SEIA CEO Abigail Ross Hopper told Electrek. “Solar is quickly becoming the dominant source of power for the grid, making Communities can breathe cleaner air and live healthier lives.”
The U.S. Department of Energy says using solar energy can lower electricity costs and help increase grid resiliency. It is a renewable energy source that reduces carbon emissions, which is crucial in the fight against climate change.
read more: Parts of the U.S. could face energy shortages and blackouts this summer
The North American Electric Reliability Corporation’s summer reliability assessment warned that much of the U.S. and across North America could face supply shortages, but other areas were at lower risk due to the addition of clean energy.
read more: The Best Solar Panels for Your Home in 2024
“Widespread high-temperature events expected to impact generation, wind output, or transmission systems, combined with increased demand in some regions, are exacerbating resource and transmission adequacy risks,” NERC said in its assessment. “All regions are assessed as normal There is ample supply for peak loads, due in large part to a record 25 GW [gigawatt] New solar capacity added since last year. However, energy risks are increasing in some areas when solar, wind and hydropower generation is low.
read more: Power Outage Safety Guide: Why It Happens and How to Prepare
The growing field of home energy technology brings more interesting options to consumers ready to make the switch to solar energy. New innovations seen at CES in January include stained glass solar panels, portable whole-house backup batteries, power stations with swappable batteries, and pop-up tents with built-in solar panels. Solar windows are also on the horizon, and the emerging technology could change the entire way your home is powered.
