The United States continues to make massive strides when it comes to clean energy. Cities from coast to coast helped generate 42,000 megawatts of solar energy capacity in 2016, enough to power 8.3 million homes. Some cities have done especially well, contributing nearly as much solar power as the entire country did back in 2010! These power-producing cities include San Diego, Los Angeles, Honolulu, San Jose and Phoenix.
To get you up to speed, here are the top U.S. solar states according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).
California
As a whole, California blows all other states out of the water. In 2016, the state generated over 18,000 megawatts of solar energy, enough power for 4,732,000 homes. It has also created more solar jobs than any other state. Part of the reason why California has such impressive numbers is because it invested heavily in solar power. So much, in fact, that Arizona received free solar power for 14 days in March of last year.
North Carolina
Also at the top of the list is North Carolina, which generated 3,016 megawatts of solar electricity in 2016. This was enough to power 341,000 homes and open up over 7,000 new jobs. North Carolina jumped to the top of the list when a huge number of installations were made. In addition, the state also takes part in the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard (REPS).
Arizona
No shocker here, Arizona also makes the list. In 2016, the state generated nearly 3,000 megawatts of solar power. Over 7,300 new jobs were created as well. Even though solar systems are successful in most states, we can’t ignore the fact that Arizona has 300+ sunny days a year and expansive desert land for installations. It’s the perfect place for solar to be.
Nevada
Next on our list is Nevada. Another sunny state, Nevada generated 2,191 megawatts of solar electricity in 2016, the equivalent of powering 362,000 homes. However, Nevada’s numbers have actually dropped. Some of the largest residential installers threatened to pull out of the state because incentives for installing solar systems were being phased out. Thanks to a new law restoring these incentives, business is expected to resume.
New Jersey
New Jersey is a solar powerhouse. The state generated 1,991 megawatts of cumulative capacity in 2016, enough to power 309,000 homes. It’s not the weather that makes New Jersey a great state for solar – it’s the incentives. The Garden State has one of the strongest net metering programs in the country as well as solar leases and solar PPAs.
Are you considering installing a solar system and would like to know more about the associated costs and savings? Call AllSeason Solar for a free quote and to see if you qualify!
