Credit: American Public Power Association/Unsplash

Texas leads U.S. in solar and battery storage growth

Texas added more solar and battery storage capacity to its power grid than any other energy source in 2024, continuing its rapid expansion of renewable energy.

Arcelia Martin reports for Inside Climate News.

In short:

Texas nearly tripled its battery storage capacity in 2024, adding 4,374 megawatts, while solar capacity grew to nearly 9,700 megawatts.
The state's independent grid operator, ERCOT, is incorporating more battery storage to help manage peak electricity demand, particularly during extreme weather.
Texas' renewable energy expansion, spurred by transmission infrastructure built for wind power, has positioned the state as a national leader in utility-scale solar.

Key quote:

“Batteries made a meaningful contribution to what those shoulder periods look like and how much scarcity we get into during these peak events.”

— Pablo Vegas, ERCOT CEO

Why this matters:

Texas’ rapid expansion of solar and battery storage is reshaping its energy landscape. Once heavily dependent on fossil fuels, the state now rivals California in renewable energy capacity. Battery storage helps balance fluctuations in solar power, reducing strain on the grid during extreme weather. As demand for electricity grows — driven by industries like data centers and AI — Texas' ability to integrate renewables could serve as a model for other states navigating the transition away from fossil fuels. If politics don't interfere, that is.

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