National solar power generation efficiency region

Where can I find information on NREL's solar resource data development?

For more information on NREL's solar resource data development, see the National Solar Radiation Database (NSRDB). The maps below illustrate select multiyear annual and monthly average maps and geospatial data from the National Solar Radiation Database (NSRDB) Physical Solar Model (PSM). The PSM covers most of the Americas.

Will solar and wind energy lead the growth in US power generation?

Solar and wind energy will lead the growth in U.S. power generation for at least the next two years, according to EIA estimates. This report uses data from the EIA to analyze solar and wind capacity and generation over the past decade (2014 to 2023) in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Where do solar and wind power data come from?

All national and state-level data come from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Utility-scale solar and wind summer capacity values for 2014-2022 are as reported in EIA’s Historical State Data for each year.

How much solar energy does the United States use?

Total solar energy use in the United States increased from about 0.02 trillion British thermal units (Btu) in 1984 to about 878 trillion Btu (or about 0.9 quadrillion Btu) in 2023. Solar electricity generation accounted for about 93% of total solar energy use in 2023 and solar energy use for space and water heating accounted for about 7%.

Which state produces the most solar power?

In 2023, California accounted for the largest percentage share of total utility-scale solar electricity generation (25%), followed by Texas (17%). California accounted for nearly 40% of total generation from small-scale PV systems. Most small-scale PV systems are installed on or near buildings.

What is the NREL solar futures study?

Read more about the key findings of the report in an NREL fact sheet or on the DOE Solar Energy Technologies Office website. The Solar Futures Study is the most comprehensive review to date of the potential role of solar in decarbonizing the U.S. energy system.