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Solar generates more energy in US than coal for first time (theguardian.com)

504 points by neilfrndes · 31 days ago · 252 comments on HN

Article summary

Solar power has generated more energy in the US than coal for the first time, with solar supplying 12.8% of the nation's electricity in May. This milestone marks a significant shift in the US energy mix, despite federal policies aimed at boosting the coal industry. The growth of solar power is driven by its increasing cost competitiveness and declining costs, making it an attractive option for new power generation. As a result, solar has become the third-largest source of electricity in the US, behind natural gas and nuclear.

Main themes

  • Renewable energy growth
  • US energy policy
  • Solar power vs coal
  • Energy storage and grid stability
  • Climate change and sustainability

What commenters say

  • The growth of solar power is inevitable and will continue to displace coal and other fossil fuels as technology improves and costs decline.
  • The US is falling behind other countries, such as China, in terms of investing in renewable energy and transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
  • Energy storage is a significant challenge for widespread adoption of solar power, but advancements in battery technology are rapidly addressing this issue.
  • The idea that storage is a major bottleneck for solar power is overstated, and existing solutions are already being deployed at scale.
  • The US energy policy is corrupt and prioritizes the interests of the fossil fuel industry over the need to address climate change and transition to renewable energy.
  • The cost of energy storage is decreasing rapidly, making it more viable for widespread adoption and enabling greater penetration of solar power into the grid.
  • The shift to renewable energy is not just an environmental issue, but also an economic one, with countries that invest in clean energy likely to gain a competitive advantage in the global economy.
  • The notion that solar power can replace baseload power plants is unrealistic, and a more nuanced approach is needed to ensure grid stability and reliability.