2 min read

Solar and wind are generating more electricity than coal!

A drawing depicting solar and wind energy on the rise while coal is declining
This poster was created by Chrissy Holmes. Chrissy is an artist and climate activist based in Bristol, UK. Her work is primarily concerned with raising awareness about the climate crisis and celebrating the beauty of the natural world. You can find out more about Chrissy and her work at www.chrissyhazelholmes.com and on social media @chrissy_hazel_holmes
This post is a part of the 'Positivity Posters' live art installation at New York Climate Week 2023, where Climativity teamed up with 8 artists to highlight the best news story of each month of the year.

This story is the best of May!

The Story

Coal was first used to create power in the US in the 1880s, and by 1961 it was the main energy source throughout the country.

But not anymore!

For every month this year so far, solar and wind have generated more electricity than coal. This is the first time this has ever happened, and both renewable energy sources continue to improve technology while decreasing in price, accelerated even further by the recent passing of the Inflation Reduction Act.

This story means that renewable energy is speeding into the number one source of energy slot, replacing fossil fuels permanently.

In New Record, Solar and Wind Generated More Electricity Than Coal for First 5 Months of Year - EcoWatch
Solar and wind power generation has set a new record, with more power generated than coal for the first five months of 2023.

Take Action

You can switch your home to renewable energy right now, in one of three ways.

  1. Contact your existing utility, as hundreds if not thousands already offer the option to cleanly power your home (yet almost always require you to opt in). It's typically very, very similar in price.
  2. Community solar lets you power your home with solar energy without having to install anything new. You essentially purchase the energy from a local solar farm and can find one by you with an online tool.
  3. Installing solar panels on your roof is another great option if you have the financial ability to pay the upfront costs. Thankfully, these are getting cheaper and cheaper, and in just a few years, you'll offset the price with all of your energy savings. Start by researching local solar installers, and end with limitless clean energy.