Solar accounts for 30 percent of new U.S. energy added so far this year

Media Contacts
Skye Borden

Environment Montana

A new analysis released today by SEIA/GTM Research shows Montana ranks 22nd for solar installations in the first quarter of 2017. Nationally, solar accounted for 30 percent of new energy capacity in that time.

The report comes after months of legislative attacks on solar customers by Northwestern Energy in Montana, as well as national setbacks from the Trump administration’s withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement.

Montana’s 22nd place first quarter ranking puts the state far ahead of its 40th place ranking for annual solar installations in 2016.

Today, the U.S. has nearly 15 times more solar energy capacity installed than in 2010, with enough solar to power the equivalent of over 8.7 million homes and reduce 55 million metric tons of carbon emissions annually.

The data comes from the quarterly U.S. Solar Market Insight Report by SEIA/GTM Research.

Environment Montana director Skye Borden released the following statement in reaction to today’s report:

“The data released today is clear: solar power continues to boom across America.

“If our state and local leaders step up their commitments to solar power, Montana’s environment and our health will benefit from cleaner air, water and a safer climate.

“These figures also show that even while President Trump withdraws from the Paris Climate Agreement and rolls back American commitments to act on climate change, state and local governments stand ready to ramp up renewable energy at record speed.

“In order to reach 100 percent renewable energy, we can and must continue the wave of solar adoption currently underway in our communities.

“We urge Montana’s leaders to stand with us for a clean, bright solar future.”