Renewable energy has become a significant contributor to America’s energy mix, with wind and solar leading the way as the fastest-growing sources of green power. According to the American Clean Power Association, over 27,000 megawatts of new wind, solar, and energy storage were installed in the United States in 2021, accounting for approximately 20% of the country’s total energy needs. While every state is contributing to this growth, Texas stands out as the leading state in renewable energy production.
Texas has emerged as the renewable energy capital of the United States, with a diversified energy production portfolio that includes significant investments in wind power. The state’s wind turbines generate more clean, green energy than any other state, and it put 7,000 megawatts of new wind, solar, and energy storage projects online last year, more than any other state. Texas is also leading the way in terms of how much wind, solar, and storage are under construction or in advanced development, with 19,918 megawatts, followed by California with 13,663 megawatts.
Several factors have contributed to Texas’ success in renewable energy production, including favorable legislation, a competitive market, power grid investments, a diversified approach to energy production, and the state’s plentiful renewable capacity. Texas has plenty of renewable resources, covering an area equivalent to the entire country of France, with ample space for solar panels and wind turbines. The state’s legislation is also friendly to renewable energy, with a history of supporting renewable-friendly legislation and a competitive market between electricity providers.
Renewable energy has created jobs and driven economic growth in Texas, with the alternative energy industry employing over 300,000 people across the country, and nearly 37,000 of those jobs located in Texas. As the use of coal gradually declines, renewables are projected to continue growing at record levels alongside the population migration to Texas. Solar prices in Texas are also dropping, with the price of solar power generation down almost 40% from five years ago.
Texas’ unique infrastructure, with its own electricity grid, has allowed the state to home-grow its renewable energy industry at a pace that’s often not possible in areas subject to federal oversight. Energy Texas offers 100% renewable energy from wind and solar, with fair rates and a commitment to customer satisfaction. As the demand for electricity surges in Texas, switching to clean electricity with Energy Texas is a step towards joining the energy revolution and powering homes with renewable energy.
