US energy developers are targeting the addition of 64 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity in 2025, a move that could break the previous record of 58 GW set in 2002. This ambitious plan represents a significant change toward the development of more renewable energy resources. The country is doubling down on wind, solar and battery storage to power the energy transition with all eyes set on solar.
Should developers meet this target, their actions will more than double solar capacity. According to our projections, more than half of that increase will be driven by solar power alone. That transition is a clear reflection of Americans’ deep desire to cut carbon emissions and boost energy independence.
Major Contributions from Texas
These days, Texas has become a shining star of the solar industry. So far this year it has added 3.2 GW, for 27% of the new solar capacity installed in 2025. The state is poised for potentially explosive growth. Most notably, it smartly projects to build a whopping 9.7 GW in the second half of the year. This expansion is part of Texas’s broader strategy to capitalize on its abundant natural resources and favorable climate for solar energy generation.
Texas renewable developers aren’t limiting their focus on solar energy alone. They are heavily investing in battery storage as a solution, planning to add 7 GW of new battery storage this year alone. This two-prong strategy seeks to support grid reliability and meet increasing consumer and business demand for renewable energy.
Progress and Challenges in Capacity Additions
Save for in the first half of 2025, where retirement of existing generating capacity has been significant. All told, only 2 GW of the planned 8.7 GW had decommissioned to date. In fact, over 3.6 GW of previously announced retirement plans have since been either delayed or reversed. This change is an important recognition of the strategic imperative to retain existing energy assets, as the demand for renewables grows stronger.
With developers intending to bring 21 GW—a whopping 92%—of all new solar online in the second half of the year. Battery storage continues to put its stamp with 26% of capacity additions in the first half, or 5.9 GW. Specifically, Arizona and California have had huge utility installations leading this charge. These innovations highlight the important role energy storage plays in managing supply and demand. As more renewable and distributed sources come online, energy storage assumes a notably central role.
A Promising Future for Renewable Energy
These concerted efforts by US developers to ramp up solar capacity are just one part of a larger trend towards sustainable energy solutions. The industry is changing quickly. Creative technologies coupled with smart use of resources will be key in making this transition possible.