Energy

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.

Recent Posts

How to protect our drinking water at the source

From watershed restoration to simple changes at home, protecting water relies on collective action. Chester,…

2 days ago

Rally to keep the Academy of Natural Sciences open

The institution plays a vital role in educating the public about science and climate change.…

6 days ago

Heat waves, Academy closing & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Schools close for extreme heat. On Tuesday afternoon,…

7 days ago

Roadless Rule rescindment, Schuylkill Center renovations, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: USDA threatens Pennsylvania public land. The U.S. Department…

2 weeks ago

How your drinking water gets treated, from stream to faucet

Here’s a look at the intricate system of infrastructure, testing, treatment, and the people who…

2 weeks ago

Shapiro restricts data centers, New Jersey expands solar, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Governor Shapiro restricts data center development. Shapiro, who…

3 weeks ago