The latest data from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) reveals which U.S. states have installed the most solar power, the number of solar jobs in these areas, and where residential solar power is growing the fastest. Here’s what we found:
California continues to lead the nation in solar power. It ranks #1 in total installed solar capacity, residential solar capacity, and non-residential distributed solar power. Despite being second in utility-scale solar power, California’s solar industry is robust with 80,056 solar jobs and 2,169 solar companies. It generates enough solar energy to power nearly 15 million homes. In fact, solar now provides 30% of California’s electricity.
Texas, holding second place in total installed solar power capacity, is number one in utility-scale solar power. However, it ranks lower in residential and non-residential distributed solar power, sitting at 4th and 15th, respectively. Texas boasts 12,421 solar jobs and 592 solar companies. The state’s solar power is sufficient to supply energy for almost 5 million homes. Texas has also seen benefits for farmers and ranchers, who can lease land for solar development.
Florida ranks third for total solar power capacity and is second for residential solar capacity. However, it ranks much lower in non-residential solar power at 16th place. Florida is home to 14,108 solar jobs and 436 solar companies, providing enough solar power for 2.2 million homes.
Arizona comes in fourth, with strong showings in residential solar (3rd) and utility-scale solar (7th). The state’s solar capacity can power over 1.4 million homes. Arizona has 9,726 solar jobs and 342 solar companies. SEIA notes that favorable net metering and property tax exemptions have boosted Arizona’s residential solar market.
North Carolina rounds out the top five, ranking 4th in utility-scale solar capacity. While it ranks lower in residential (17th) and non-residential (25th), the state’s solar energy contributes to powering 1.2 million homes. North Carolina has 7,356 solar jobs and 224 solar companies.
While these states lead in total solar power, the rankings shift when looking at per capita capacity. For instance, California remains first in residential solar but falls to 8th place in utility-scale capacity. Similarly, Texas rises to 2nd in residential solar but drops significantly in utility-scale solar.
Overall, solar energy is growing rapidly across the U.S., benefiting both consumers and businesses.
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