The clean energy industry is experiencing significant growth and transformation, driven by increasing demand, technological advancements, and supportive policies. According to Deloitte's 2025 Renewable Energy Industry Outlook, the US renewable energy sector saw record-breaking capacity additions in 2024, with utility-scale solar and wind accounting for nearly 90% of all new builds and expansions in the first nine months of the year[1].
The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) expects wind capacity to rise to 153.8 GW by the end of 2024, up by 6.5 GW from the previous year, while solar capacity is projected to increase by a record-breaking 38.4 GW to 128.2 GW[1]. Battery storage is also experiencing rapid growth, with a record-breaking 14.9 GW of new capacity added in 2024, bringing the total to 30.9 GW[1].
The industry is also seeing significant investments in new technologies, such as green hydrogen, long-duration energy storage, and advanced solar cell technology[1]. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has provided a boost to the industry, with over two-thirds of respondents to Deloitte's 2024 power and utilities survey believing that the federal government plays a crucial role in shaping policies that drive the energy transition[1].
However, the industry is also facing challenges, including regulatory uncertainty and potential disruptions to energy trade flows[2]. The EIA has revised its forecast for 2025 US natural gas prices upward, citing a cold end to January[3]. The refining and marketing sector is also facing modest long-term growth projections and significant profitability challenges in the renewable fuels segment[2].
Despite these challenges, the clean energy industry is creating new jobs and driving economic growth. According to Climate Power's January 2025 report, the industry has created over 400,000 new jobs across the US since the passage of the clean energy plan in August 2022[5]. California is a leader in the nation's clean energy boom, with 46 new clean energy projects announced in the state since August 2022, spurring nearly $25.7 billion in investment and creating 9,591 good-paying clean energy jobs[5].
Industry leaders are responding to current challenges by investing in new technologies, forming partnerships, and diversifying into renewable energy. For example, Chevron and Marathon Petroleum Corporation have formed partnerships with agricultural firms to secure a consistent feedstock supply and strengthen their biofuel supply chains[2]. Companies like Statevolt are also prioritizing a "hyperlocal" business model that seeks to create good-paying jobs in local communities[5].
In conclusion, the clean energy industry is experiencing significant growth and transformation, driven by increasing demand, technological advancements, and supportive policies. While the industry faces challenges, including regulatory uncertainty and potential disruptions to energy trade flows, it is creating new jobs and driving economic growth. Industry leaders are responding to current challenges by investing in new technologies, forming partnerships, and diversifying into renewable energy.