The US Energy Information Administration forecasts that utility-scale solar power generation in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) will surpass coal generation for the first time on an annual basis in 2026. Solar generation is expected to reach 78 billion kilowatt-hours compared with 60 billion kilowatt-hours from coal.

The shift is being driven by rapid solar capacity expansion across Texas as electricity demand rises from data centers, cryptocurrency mining, industrial activity, and the energy sector. Solar’s share of ERCOT’s power mix has steadily increased in recent years, while coal’s share has declined, and no new coal plants are currently planned for the grid.

The report also notes that Texas is expected to account for about 40% of all US solar capacity additions in 2026, supported by large new projects including combined solar and battery storage systems.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR