It is projected that renewable energy will reach up to 44 percent of the US energy mix by 2050, according to the Energy Information Administration. With electric vehicles and other green initiatives gaining popularity in recent years, this forecasted number is an extremely promising sign for the environment. As demand for clean energy increases, many sources of renewable energy – including solar, hydroelectricity, and wind power – are now more accessible than ever before. Although overall power consumption has increased, this surge in availability is expected to assist with climate change mitigation efforts over the next three decades and put us one step closer to a more sustainable future through more widespread use of green technology.
The US could reach 25% of its energy from renewables by 2023
The rise of commercial solar in the US has brought increased opportunity for sustainability and clean energy solutions. The Department of Energy projected that by 2023, renewable sources such as commercial solar systems could produce 25% of the nation’s entire energy supply. This ambitious goal highlights the desire to reduce carbon emissions and develop local green infrastructure. With this commitment towards clean energy, commercial solar promises a reliable and efficient avenue for achieving environmental goals.
Renewable energy provided 21% of the country’s total in 2020
To give context to this rapid growth, in 2020, only 21% of the country’s total energy production was supplied by renewable energy sources. Power sources, such as commercial solar power has become increasingly efficient and cost-effective since its introduction in the late 1970s. With cutting-edge technology now available to homeowners and businesses alike, many are beginning to recognize the huge potential for reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and protecting our environment from their harmful emissions.
Continued growth in solar and wind power
The energy sector is undergoing an incredible transformation, driven by a noticeable preference toward renewable sources of power such as solar and wind. Thanks to the steady growth witnessed by both forms of energy, they are becoming increasingly accessible and cost-effective, providing a viable alternative to non-renewable sources. This is great news for both businesses and households that can now reduce their electricity costs and carbon footprint while strengthening their financials. It’s also good news for the environment, with emissions reduced thanks to fewer fossil fuels being burned. Solar and wind power are quickly becoming mainstream options when it comes to powering the world in a sustainable way.
Natural gas continues to be the largest source of energy, but renewables will be on top
Natural gas has long been the kingpin of the energy grid, supplying a vast amount of power to our homes and businesses. However, this reliance on such an inefficient and environmentally damaging form of energy is no longer sustainable. According to the EIA report, natural gas is set to decrease to 34% in 2050 (from 37% in 2020). Thanks to renewables becoming increasingly more competitive and accessible as technological advances open up new possibilities that make them cost effective alternatives. As costs come down and availability increases, we can expect that natural gas will be displaced from its dominant position over the coming decades.
Coal generated electricity on the decline
The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) forecasts predicting that the share of electricity generated from coal will continue to fall in the coming years. Specifically, coal’s contribution is expected to drop to 10% in 2050, from 23% in 2020. This shift will be partially offset by expected increases in both utility-scale solar and wind power generation. EIA’s analysis points towards a more sustainable energy future where clean electricity sources are increasingly relied upon.
US Energy Information Administration’s Annual Energy Outlook
The US Energy Information Administration Annual Outlook report provides an assessment of energy markets over the next 30 years. This publication addresses issues related to energy production, demand, regional trends, transportation, and electricity generation and provides insights on important energy topics such as technological advances, changes in market structure and policy decisions. By using historical data combined with forecasts and modeling techniques, this outlook delivers reliable information on current and expected future trends that are essential for informed decision-making. With both graphical illustrations and detailed tables, this outlook provides an invaluable resource to policy makers, industry leaders and other stakeholders in the energy sector.
