Renewable Energy to Dominate US Grid Additions in 2025
Renewable energy technologies—including solar, wind, and batteries—are projected to account for 99% of all new electricity grid installations in the United States in 2025, driven by compelling economic advantages over fossil fuels and rapid growth in states like Texas[1]. This marks the largest single-year growth for any US energy technology in over two decades[1].
US Solar Policy Shift: Tighter ITC Rules and New Tariffs
The US Department of the Treasury tightened eligibility for the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), requiring large projects over 1.5 MW to meet stricter construction progress criteria starting September 2, 2025[2]. Additionally, new federal tariffs of 25% on imports from India have been imposed, which may disrupt supply chains for solar equipment and increase costs for developers[2].
Global Renewables Summit Calls for Accelerated Zero-Emission Investment
World leaders and industry executives at the Global Renewables Summit in New York urged businesses and governments to ramp up capital and technology investments in zero-emission infrastructure ahead of the UN Climate Summit[5]. With nearly $2 trillion invested in clean energy in 2024 and renewables now outpacing fossil fuel spending two to one, the summit emphasized the need for enabling regulatory environments and innovation to sustain momentum[5].
New Jersey Expands Community Solar and Grid Storage Initiatives
Governor Phil Murphy signed legislation authorizing 3 GW of new community solar capacity to begin in October 2025 and launched the Garden State Energy Storage Program to boost grid-scale energy storage and resilience[2]. These measures aim to accelerate New Jersey’s clean energy transition and support system reliability[2].
Maryland Funds Automated Solar Permitting
The Maryland Energy Administration announced a $3.9 million grant program for counties and municipalities to adopt SolarAPP+, an automated online permitting platform for residential solar projects[2]. This initiative is expected to reduce approval delays and lower administrative costs, streamlining rooftop solar deployment statewide[2].