What's Happening?
The American Clean Power Association (ACP) reports a slowdown in U.S. renewable energy deployments due to federal policies under the Trump administration. The ACP's 'Clean Power Quarterly Market Report' indicates that while over 11 GW of new utility-scale solar, wind, and energy storage capacity were deployed in Q2 2025, growth has stagnated. The clean power pipeline grew by less than 100 MW, and power purchase agreements (PPAs) have plummeted, reflecting federal policy attacks and trade policy fluctuations. The ACP warns that these obstacles threaten hundreds of billions in planned energy investments.
Why It's Important?
The slowdown in renewable energy growth poses risks to U.S. energy security and economic growth. Federal policy obstacles and restrictive mandates are creating uncertainty, stalling the development pipeline at a time when energy demand is high. The ACP highlights the need for stable policies to support investment and growth in the clean energy sector. The report underscores the impact of federal actions on the market, with decreased capacity contracted through PPAs and increased costs reflecting instability.
What's Next?
The ACP calls for supportive policies to ensure continued growth in the clean energy sector. The report suggests that the U.S. must support all forms of energy to meet rising demand and avoid limiting power production. The ongoing RE+ 2025 event in Las Vegas may provide a platform for industry stakeholders to discuss strategies to navigate the current policy environment. The ACP's data and insights could influence future policy discussions and decisions.
Beyond the Headlines
The report highlights the political dimensions of energy policy, noting that eight of the top 10 states for Q2 clean power additions voted Republican in the most recent presidential election. This suggests that clean energy growth is not solely dependent on political affiliation but also on market demand and state-level policies. The ACP's findings emphasize the need for a balanced approach to energy policy that considers both economic and environmental factors.
