Solar powered: Lancaster produced the most solar energy in PA

Pennsylvania ranks #23 in solar power, and #16 in wind power

Renewables are gaining momentum.

The contiguous U.S. generated an estimated 606,000 GWh of wind and solar electricity in 2021, up to 16% of electricity consumed, according to Climate Central.

Pennsylvania was the 23rd state in generating solar power in 2021. However, Pennsylvania ranked higher for turbines: it was the 16th state to generate wind power in 2021.

Wind energy production is highest during the spring and fall.

Although wind and solar are gaining momentum, there is a need to increase production to reach net-zero goals by 2050.

The U.S. would need to generate 2.2 million GWh of solar and wind energy annually by 2030—about 3.6 times the total amount produced in 2021, according to an estimate by the Net Zero America Project.

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.