Solar energy Generates More Electricity Than Coal in The U.S. for First Time Ever

Once the dominant source of U.S. electricity, coal has steadily lost market share due to competition from cheaper natural gas, renewable energy expansion, aging power plants, and environmental regulations. (Credit: Brandon Bell/Getty Images)

Solar energy generated more electricity than coal in the United States for the first time on record in May, marking a major milestone in the country's changing energy landscape and renewable power in general.

According to new data released by energy think tank Ember, solar supplied 12.8% of U.S. electricity generation in May, edging past coal's 12.2% share.