EIA: 83 GW of renewables and storage coming in 12 months as fossil fuel capacity to fall

The country's power grid is shifting fast toward renewables, according to new federal data. Solar, wind, and battery storage are projected to add about 83 gigawatts of new generating capacity over the next 12 months, while fossil fuel and nuclear capacity together will shrink slightly. Solar is leading the way, with utility-scale solar generation up 22% and small-scale (rooftop) solar up nearly 13% so far this year compared to 2025. Wind and hydropower also grew, while coal-generated electricity fell more than 10%.

Battery storage, the technology that lets homes and utilities store solar or wind power for use when the sun isn't shining or wind isn't blowing, has roughly doubled in capacity over the past year and a half. That growth matters for homeowners because more storage on the grid can mean more reliable power and, over time, more affordable clean electricity options, including for those considering home solar and battery systems of their own.

None of this changes any specific rebate or incentive available to you right now, but it does show the broader trend: renewables and storage are expanding much faster than fossil fuel or nuclear plants nationwide. Solar alone now produces nearly as much electricity as wind and hydropower combined, and all renewables together account for over 29% of the country's electricity, up from under 27% a year ago. If you're weighing a home solar or battery upgrade, this data suggests the technology and supply chain around it continue to grow quickly, which can affect equipment costs and availability over time.