California blows through solar power, renewable energy output records
California has set a new record for peak output of utility-scale solar at more than 10.5 GW, as well as for renewable energy overall. However, the state’s grid operator is still curtailing solar and wind while hydro and the last nuclear plant run full-steam.
Seasonal patterns show a need for more solar in the U.S. electricity mix
An abundance of hydroelectric power and wind is pushing up renewable energy in the spring months, but there is a need for more power during the summer peak, as well as issues with the geographic location of resources.
Solar represented 13% of California’s power in 2016
One in eight electrons generated in California came from a solar panel, according to data from the U.S. Department of Energy.
