US Renewable Energy Sector Faces Uncertainty After “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”
President Trump signed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” into law, which phases out key federal tax credits for solar and wind projects that are not placed in service by the end of 2027, and requires new projects to begin construction within one year of the bill’s enactment to remain eligible. This move is expected to delay or cancel several gigawatts of planned renewable projects, shifting the burden to states to sustain project development and introducing additional uncertainty through executive directives for stricter eligibility requirements and new foreign entity restrictions.[5][1][8]
Global Solar and Wind See Record Growth in Renewable Power Mix
Solar energy generation grew by 25.2% worldwide in 2023—the fastest annual growth since 2018—while wind energy increased nearly 10%, pushing variable renewables to 44% of global renewable electricity generation. Hydropower remains the largest single source, though its output declined slightly, and pumped storage hydropower rose, supporting grid flexibility.[3]
US Adds 7.4GW of New Renewable Capacity in Q1 2025, Pipeline Expands
The US deployed 7.4GW of new renewable capacity in the first quarter of 2025, with most growth in utility-scale solar, and a national project pipeline expanding 12% year-on-year to 184.4GW. The energy storage pipeline surged by 57%, signaling strong investment interest, but industry leaders warn that political uncertainty could threaten future deployment.[2]
NYSERDA Announces 2026 Voluntary REC Pre-Sale to Support Renewable Procurement
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) has opened the timeline and requirements for its 2026 Voluntary Tier 1 Renewable Energy Credit (REC) Pre-Sale, allowing eligible entities to lock in forward-priced RECs from New York solar, wind, and hydro projects. This aims to help utilities, businesses, and institutions meet sustainability goals and improve compliance planning amid broader policy uncertainty.[6]
UK and France Hit New Highs in Solar Generation
The UK and France achieved record levels of solar energy production, marking a historic day for renewable power in both countries. These milestones underscore the rapid growth and integration of solar technology across European grids.[7]