U.S. Clean Energy Surpasses Fossil Fuels for Three Consecutive Months

From March through May 2025, the United States achieved a historic milestone: electricity generation from clean power sources—solar, wind, and hydroelectric—outpaced fossil fuels for three consecutive months. This is the first time in U.S. history that renewables have taken the lead for an entire quarter, marking a significant shift in the country’s energy landscape.

Monthly Breakdown

March 2025: Clean energy generated 50.5% of U.S. electricity, while fossil fuels fell to 49.2%. This marked the first time ever that renewables overtook fossil fuels in monthly output.

April 2025: Clean energy grew to 50.8%, driven by a 33% increase in solar generation and a 24% boost in hydropower compared to the previous year.

May 2025: Preliminary data indicates that renewables held their lead again, with solar output hitting a new record for the month and natural gas generation dropping to its lowest level in three years.

Key Factors Driving the Shift

Growth in Solar and Wind
Massive investments, supported by federal incentives, have accelerated the installation of solar and wind projects. Solar generation alone increased by over 30% year-over-year in early 2025.

Rebound in Hydropower
Spring rainfall and snowmelt replenished water reservoirs, allowing hydroelectric plants to operate at higher output and contribute significantly to the clean energy mix.

Higher Fossil Fuel Prices
Natural gas prices were approximately 77% higher than the previous year, encouraging utilities to scale back gas-fired electricity and rely more on cost-effective renewable sources.

Seasonal Weather Benefits
Spring offers favorable conditions for both wind and hydroelectric generation. These seasonal patterns contributed to the boost in clean energy production.

Regional Spotlight: Texas as a Clean Energy Leader

Texas, traditionally known for oil and gas, has emerged as a leading clean energy state. It now leads the nation in installed wind and solar capacity. Wind is Texas’s second-largest power source after natural gas, and solar generation has grown by 800% since 2019. In early 2025, renewables accounted for nearly 30% of the state’s electricity generation.

Texas’s performance, combined with significant contributions from states like California, Colorado, and New York, played a vital role in the national increase in renewable energy output.

Outlook for the Future

Although summer months may temporarily see fossil fuel use rise due to increased demand for air conditioning, the long-term trend remains clear. Renewable energy is rapidly expanding, more battery storage is being deployed, and older fossil fuel plants are being retired.

The continued buildout of clean energy infrastructure and advancements in storage technology will further strengthen the reliability and capacity of renewables in the years ahead.

Conclusion

The three-month streak in which U.S. clean energy sources consistently outpaced fossil fuels is more than a symbolic victory—it is a real-world demonstration of the growing strength, reliability, and economic viability of renewable energy. With sustained investment, favorable policy support, and rapid technological advancement, the U.S. power grid is entering a transformative era.

This milestone sends a powerful message: clean energy is no longer just a future ambition—it is already reshaping our present. As solar, wind, and hydroelectric capacity continue to expand, and as energy storage becomes more widespread, we can expect renewables to become the backbone of America’s energy system. The momentum is undeniable, and if current trends continue, the clean energy era is not just on the horizon—it is already here.