March 2026 Update

03/08/26 UPDATE

Re: Chapter 3.5 (D) A RACE AGAINST TIME

The Energy Information Administration projects that the United States will build a record-high 86 GW of new power capacity from all sources in 2026, including 43.4 GW of solar (51% of the total), 24.3 GW of battery storage (28%) and 11.8 GW of wind (14%). That’s 93% renewables in new energy construction, and just 7% new fossil gas!

U.S. planned utility-scale electric generating capacity addition for 2026. Data from U.S. Energy Information Administration

In 2026, renewables are projected to provide 93% of all new-built electricity-generating capacity across America.

This is in spite of the Trump administration’s determination to stall renewable energy projects and promote coal, oil and gas. On February 11, 2026, the Washington Coal Club, a coal industry lobbying group, honored President Trump with the "Undisputed Champion of Beautiful Clean Coal" award at the White House. The award, a bronze statue of a miner, recognized his actions to support the industry, including directing the Pentagon to buy coal-fired power. 

Meanwhile, renewable energy has become the world's primary source of new electricity, with solar and wind driving a rapid global transition. Global renewable capacity is projected to nearly triple by 2030, with over 30% of global electricity already generated.