In 2025, clean energy faced significant ups and downs. While President Donald Trump preferred fossil fuels and often criticized renewables, the industry still managed to make strides. Energy developers noticed a turbulent year, but projects linked to the electric grid moved forward. Experts believe clean energy must grow to meet the rising electricity demand from data centers and help reduce utility costs.
Jorge Vargas, a solar energy operator, described 2025 as “tough” due to Trump’s policies that hindered renewable energy growth. “We’ve had challenges, but we’re resilient,” he said. Jose Luis Crespo, president of Plug Power, pointed out that the policies and technological advancements this year will impact clean energy for years.
### Energy Policy Shifts
The departure of President Biden impacted clean energy policies, leading to reduced federal subsidies and rising costs for developers. Tom Harper, a consultant, noted that the year started with strong support for clean energy technologies but ended with significant cutbacks. Experts highlighted the importance of demonstrating that clean energy can thrive without federal support. Many executives agreed that recent policy changes drastically reshaped the energy landscape, creating uncertainty in investments.
Brian Murray, from Duke University, warned that the U.S. will likely see lower reductions in greenhouse gas emissions than expected due to these shifts.
### Solar and Battery Storage Growth
Despite the challenges, solar and storage technologies thrived, accounting for 85% of new power added to the grid early in Trump’s term. Mike Hall, CEO of Anza Renewables, noted strong demand and quick deployment for these technologies. Sol Systems reported a record year, highlighting the growing reliance on solar energy.
### Other Energy Sources Thrive
Nuclear energy saw renewed support from both parties to keep existing reactors running and restart shut-down plants. David Shepheard of Baringa even joked about the revival of the infamous Three Mile Island reactor. Meanwhile, geothermal energy showed growth as tax credits remained intact.
### Offshore Wind Struggles
On the flip side, offshore wind projects faced a challenging year. With the Trump administration halting major developments and revoking permits, industry experts noted a slowdown that left developers in a tough spot. Eric Fischgrund, CEO of FischTank PR, expressed optimism about the transition to cleaner energy, despite setbacks.
### Looking Ahead to 2026
With electricity demand rising, experts stress the need for a balanced energy mix. Former Senator Mary Landrieu emphasized that pushing or punishing energy technologies based on ideology is not sustainable. Amanda Levin from the Natural Resources Defense Council expects solar and battery storage to continue growing in 2026.
Likewise, Hillary Bright, executive director of Turn Forward, believes that offshore wind will regain relevance. States are expected to streamline permitting processes to stimulate clean energy momentum, reflecting an undeniable shift toward renewable sources as we move into the future.
In summary, while challenges remain, the momentum behind clean energy is strong, fueled by growing demand and innovative technologies. The path ahead may be complex, but the industry is poised to adapt and thrive.
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Green technology, Renewable energy, Donald Trump, Joe Biden, Jose Luis Crespo, Jorge Vargas, Energy industry, General news, AP Top News, Brian Murray, Plug Power, Inc., Health, Business, Tom Harper, U.S. Republican Party, Lennart Hinrichs, Amanda Levin, World news, Sean Finnerty, Ed Gunn, Politics, David Shepheard, U.S. Democratic Party, Mike Hall, Darrin Kayser, Joey Lange, District of Columbia, Climate and environment, Jason Grumet, Wayne Winegarden, Hillary Bright, United States government, World News
