In 2026, data from the US grid indicates a return to a pattern of slow growth in energy demand, with renewable energy sources, particularly solar and hydroelectric power, contributing to a decrease in coal usage. In the first quarter of 2026, overall energy demand grew by 1.5 percent compared to the same period in 2025. This growth was influenced by unusual weather patterns, with warm temperatures in the western US and a deep freeze in the eastern US, which may affect heating demand. The surge in hydroelectric production is attributed to early snowpack melting due to warm weather, although this increase in hydro capacity was not matched by new infrastructure.
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Increase in Solar and Hydroelectric Power Reduces Coal Usage in US
Data from the US grid shows a decrease in coal usage as renewable energy sources, particularly solar and hydroelectric power, continue to grow. In the first quarter of 2026, energy demand increased by 1.5 percent, influenced by unusual weather patterns across the country.
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Soaring solar and a surge in hydro push more coal off the US grid
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Increase in Solar and Hydroelectric Power Reduces Coal Usage in US