A Look at Utility-Scale Solar Farms Under New Presidency

Renewable energy has consistently been a key area of growth in the U.S., and solar power stands at the forefront of this transition. While Donald Trump's presidency was often associated with policies favoring traditional energy sources like coal and oil, his administration oversaw a remarkable expansion in solar energy, particularly utility-scale solar farms.

Solar Energy Growth Under Trump

Despite skepticism about the administration’s support for renewable energy, solar power flourished during its tenure. Key highlights include:

• Utility-scale solar farms, like Nevada’s Gemini Solar Project—the largest solar farm in U.S. history—received approval during this time, highlighting the continued prioritization of large-scale solar developments.
• According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the U.S. added over 50,000 MW of solar capacity between 2017 and 2021.
• Republican-leaning states like Texas, Florida, and Arizona became solar powerhouses, benefiting economically from investments in solar infrastructure and job creation.

While federal policies under Trump, such as tariffs on solar panels, posed challenges for parts of the industry, they also led to an increase in solar panel manufacturing in the U.S. to support the industry's growth. Despite these challenges, the broader market for solar farms continued to thrive, driven by declining costs and state-level incentives.

Red States Leading the Solar Charge

The growth of solar farms wasn’t confined to traditionally progressive states like California. Republican-leaning states became leaders in large-scale solar farm construction:

• Texas: A hub for utility-scale solar, with projects like the Bechtel’s 218 MW Cutlass Solar 2 project driving energy production, and job creation.
• Florida: Home to the Sunshine State’s aggressive solar expansion under Florida Power & Light’s “30-by-30” plan to install 30 million solar panels by 2030.

The economic impact of these projects is undeniable, bringing billions in investments, creating construction jobs, and generating ongoing revenue for local communities through tax benefits and land leases.

Why the Future May Favor Solar Expansion

Given the economic and political alignment of solar farm development with Republican-led states, it stands to reason that renewed leadership could foster further growth in the industry. Here’s why:

• Economic Wins in Key States: Utility-scale solar projects generate local jobs Uand state revenue, particularly in regions that have historically supported the former president.
• Energy Independence: Diversifying energy sources aligns with long-held goals of reducing reliance on foreign imports. Solar farms, while traditionally linked to renewable advocates, contribute to this objective.
• Rural Benefits: Utility-scale solar farms often take root in rural areas, providing an economic lifeline to communities that align with conservative leadership.

Conclusion

Looking back, Trump’s presidency saw substantial solar energy growth, particularly in the construction of large-scale solar farms across Republican-led states. These projects provided jobs, boosted local economies, and cemented solar energy as a vital part of America’s energy mix.

There’s a strong case for continued support of utility-scale solar farms with the new office in action, particularly given their economic benefits for states that align with his base. The future of solar under Trump might not just be bright—it could be transformative for renewable energy in America.