The total installed solar capacity in the United States has reached a level sufficient to power approximately 50 million homes, representing about one-third of all households in the country. This data comes from the latest US Solar Market Insight report, a collaboration between the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Wood Mackenzie.
In the second quarter of 2026, the industry added 11.4 GWdc of new solar capacity. This figure marks a 45% increase compared to the same period in 2025 and a 43% rise over the first quarter of 2026. Utility-scale projects were the primary drivers, contributing 9.6 GWdc of the total new capacity, which is a 61% year-over-year increase.
Combined solar and storage installations accounted for 70% of the new power market during the second quarter. SEIA CEO Tim Pawlenty emphasized that these technologies are essential to meeting the nation's growing energy demands. Developers accelerated project timelines to meet the July 2026 safe harbor deadline for tax credit eligibility.
Looking ahead, analysts at Wood Mackenzie project that annual capacity will remain at approximately 44 GWdc through 2031. However, experts note that challenges related to permitting and the post-ITC transition could still impact the pace of future development.
