With the help of renewable energy, it is possible to produce all of the energy that we need, which means we will no longer be at the mercy of oil-producing states such as the Middle East. Unfortunately, finding renewable energy sources that are profitable can be difficult, which is why some people choose to invest in oil and gas leases, since they can make a decent amount of money without too much risk.
The Solar Revolution
This is not to say that we should not be doing anything to reduce our energy dependence on fossil fuels, but instead that we should be looking into alternative sources of energy that can be sustainable.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, between 2016 and 2018 solar energy grew by 17%, while wind energy grew by only 3%. This is largely thanks to the decreased cost of solar energy compared to electricity generated from fossil fuels.
Even more encouraging is the fact that last year alone, solar energy grew by nearly 50% compared to 2015, which means we are slowly, but surely, moving away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy.
Which States Produce the Most Solar Energy?
To determine which states produce the most solar energy, we looked at the median annual electricity generation for megawatt-hours, which is the amount of energy produced by 1 million watts of power for an entire year. We adjusted the data for inflation and population differences to calculate an overall solar energy ranking for the U.S. and its individual states.
The results below can be pretty shocking. Not only does Florida rank number one, with a median annual electricity generation of 526 kWh/mWh, but seven other southern states – Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina – also make the top 10.
Why Are So Many Southern States At The Top Of The List?
Looking at the data for median annual electricity generation, it is clear that southern states overwhelmingly dominate the list. The clear exception is California, which is understandable, as it is known for its sunny climate and rich, farm-growing populace. In fact, nine of the top 10 states are located in the south or the southwest.
This is largely thanks to the state’s abundance of sun – thanks to its location on the “biggest ocean” – and the plentiful supply of reasonably-priced land. Other southern states with high electricity generation and good growth prospects include North Carolina, whose abundant solar resources help provide electricity for nearly 500,000 homes, and Alabama, whose rapidly expanding economy makes it a promising investment destination.
Top States For Solar Energy
Looking at the data for median annual electricity generation, it is clear that southern states overwhelmingly dominate the list. The clear exception is California, which is understandable, as it is known for its sunny climate and rich, farm-growing populace. In fact, nine of the top 10 states are located in the south or the southwest.
This is largely thanks to the state’s abundance of sun – thanks to its location on the “biggest ocean” – and the plentiful supply of reasonably-priced land. Other southern states with high electricity generation and good growth prospects include North Carolina, whose abundant solar resources help provide electricity for nearly 500,000 homes, and Alabama, whose rapidly expanding economy makes it a promising investment destination.
Other Major Solar Energy Producers
In addition to the states discussed above, other major solar energy producers include Washington, whose orchid farms and majestic skylines make it a photographer’s paradise, and Massachusetts, whose photovoltaic solar power stations helped secure the country’s status as a world leader in producing clean energy.
It should come as no surprise, then, that many of the country’s wealthiest individuals and institutional investors are purchasing property in states that are popular for their high solar energy production, including New York, Massachusetts, and California.
How Does Solar Energy Compare To Other Sources Of Energy?
It is important to note that, while solar energy is a rapidly growing source of energy, it is still not considered “renewable” or “green” energy, since some amount of energy is always lost in the process of converting sunlight into electricity, and since it is not always possible to convert all of the energy into useful forms.
This is why it is necessary to look at the bigger picture and consider how much energy is being generated compared to how much is being used. When this is done, it becomes clear that solar energy is, in fact, a very clean and green source of energy, when compared to traditional fossil fuels.
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, below is how solar energy stacks up compared to other major sources of energy, based on 2018 data.
- Electricity: 8%
- Natural Gas: 29%
- Nuclear: 22%
- Hydroelectric: 15%
- Coal: 24%
- Wind Power: 3%
Further Reading
If you are interested in learning more about solar energy, there are a number of reliable resources available online. For example, the Solar Energy Industries Association has a wealth of information on their website regarding the technology and its applications, and they even keep a comprehensive glossary of industry terms for newcomers.
Another useful resource is the U.S. Energy Information Administration, who provide regular updates on the status of renewable energy and offer helpful advice on how to start your own renewable energy business.