Utility-scale solar surpasses natural gas generation in California for first sustained period
Solar power generation from utility-scale installations in California has surpassed natural gas generation during 82% of days in the first five months of this year, marking the first time average solar output has outpaced gas over that period. This milestone demonstrates the growing impact of renewable energy in the largest US solar market, though the article notes solar has occasionally exceeded gas for shorter periods in the past.
Key quotes
Solar power is surpassing natural gas generation in California, demonstrating the sustained and growing impact of renewable energy in the biggest US market for photovoltaic panels.
Utility-scale solar generation in California exceeded power from gas during 82% of the days this year through May, according to a Tuesday report from the US Energy Information Association.
While solar has supplied more power to the state's grid for short periods in the past, this marks the first year when average generation in the first five months has outpaced the fossil fuel.
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