2015 may be remembered as a key turning point for solar energy in the United States. It was another record year for solar installations, with cost decreases topped off by a surprise renewal of the critical investment tax credit.
At this point, solar is on track to reach 20-30% of U.S. generation by the 2030s. The renewal of the tax credit, strengthening state renewable portfolio standards, and ongoing cost declines provide significant tail winds, particularly for utility-scale solar. The major uncertainty lies with distributed solar, where utilities are beginning to challenge favorable state policies.
