Record Growth in US Renewable Energy Faces Uncertain Future Amid Trump's Threats

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The United States saw a record-breaking addition of 48.2 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity in 2024, primarily driven by solar power, wind, and battery storage, according to a report from Cleanview. This increase, sufficient to power approximately 3.6 million homes, represented a 47% rise compared to the previous year. Michael Thomas, founder of Cleanview, noted that the growth was significantly influenced by the Inflation Reduction Act, enacted in 2022, which incentivized green technology development.

However, the future of the renewable sector is precarious, as former President Donald Trump has pledged to halt federal support for clean energy, citing a pro-fossil fuel agenda. Energy expert Nathan Schluter warned that this could erode America's competitive edge in the growing global clean-energy market. While solar and battery industries flourished, wind capacity saw only modest growth, attributed to rising costs and local opposition.

Despite potential setbacks, some officials, including 132 mayors from Trump-supporting states, urged Congress to maintain clean-energy tax credits crucial for local economies. Mayor Kate Gallego of Phoenix emphasized the importance of clean energy for job creation and lower electricity costs.

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