Renewable Energy Growth

Wind and solar energy are the fastest-growing electricity sources in history, and renewables broadly accounted for 30 percent of global electricity generation in 2023. Still, much more is needed to reach climate targets, and distribution of renewables is uneven.

Some places across the U.S. and Europe with highly concentrated renewables are seeing energy prices go negative, which could disincentivize further production. This is already being seen in California, whose public utilities commission voted to reduce the number of credits that residents with solar receive from utility companies. 

For planners, this trend highlights the need for updated policies and infrastructure that support equitable energy access and grid stability. Planners may also need to work with local governments and utilities to ensure incentives remain in place to encourage continued investment in renewable energy at the community level.