The Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have made significant strides, but the transition to renewable energy in the United States is far from complete. Currently, only about 21% of the country’s total utility-scale electricity generation comes from renewable sources. However, there is hope for progress as the World Resources Institute reports that in 2023, the U.S. saw a 55% increase in solar energy capacity, with 31 gigawatts installed.
Despite the challenges posed by the second Trump administration, renewable energy is on an unstoppable path. Tim Montague, a respected advisor in the solar and energy storage industries and host of the Clean Power Hour podcast, believes that the transition to clean energy is inevitable. Whether through locally produced solar power, community solar programs, or personal installation of photovoltaic panels, investing in renewable energy will have both financial and environmental benefits.
Currently, 24 states have community solar regulations and 42 states have some form of net-metering legislation in place, although many receive low ratings from the Interstate Renewable Energy Council’s https://freeingthegrid.org/. Tim Montague, cohost of The Clean Power Hour podcast and president of Montague Solar Consulting, joins us on Sustainability In Your Ear to discuss the green transition and the role of the United States in this global movement.
The question remains whether the U.S. will be a leader or a laggard in the transition to renewable energy. As Tim explains, while American scientists and engineers have invented many of the clean technologies in use, they have not consistently turned them into commercial successes. Meanwhile, countries like Northern Europe and China are surging ahead, with China now leading the world in the export of electric vehicles. In order to remain competitive in a world where clean energy is the driving force, the U.S. must prioritize innovation and incorporate natural climate restoration practices into the electric grid, industrial production, and foreign policy strategies.
Tim’s Clean Power Hour podcast delves into the people, technology, and policies shaping the energy industry. From discussing the benefits of distributed versus centralized solar systems to exploring cutting-edge battery storage innovations, Tim provides a comprehensive look at the complex and rapidly evolving world of clean energy. Check out the Brooklyn Solar episode that Tim recommends as a starting point for your listening at https://www.cleanpowerhour.com/.
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