Unstoppable Energy Transition: US Low-Carbon Shift Wins Despite Trump's Efforts

Despite US president Donald Trump's efforts to undermine the development of low-carbon energy alternatives, the global energy transition march appears to be unstoppable. The US has made significant strides in onshore wind generation capacity, with 153GW installed by late last year, surpassing coal production for the first time in 2022. Renewables account for over 20% of US energy production, with hydropower being a significant contributor despite being stressed by continental droughts.

Key Takeaways:

• The US has surpassed 153GW of onshore wind generation capacity, making it the fourth-largest energy source in the country.
• Renewables, including hydropower, account for more than 20% of US energy production.
• The US has the second-highest wind power production globally, behind only China.
• The country has seen a 6.5GW increase in onshore wind generation capacity since 2023.
• The US has surpassed coal production for the first time in 2022, marking a significant shift towards low-carbon energy.
• Groundbreaking research and development in universities and corporations, such as UCLA and GE, are driving innovation in low-carbon energy technologies.
• The Trump administration's efforts to undermine the transition may be partially successful in the short term, but will not be permanent due to the four-year term of the administration.

Statistics:

• 153GW of onshore wind generation capacity installed in the US by late last year.
• 6.5GW increase in onshore wind generation capacity since 2023.
• 20% of US energy production comes from renewables, including hydropower.
• 2022 saw the US surpass coal production for the first time in history.
• 4-year term of the US administration, making Trump's efforts to undermine the transition temporary.

Sources:

• "TIME LIMITED: Donald Trump's attempt to stymie wind power in favour of oil is already failing because of the enormous investments already made." (Energy Voice)