Most of the utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) electric generating capacity has been installed in the southwestern part of the country in states such as California and Arizona, which together accounted for 64% of the national total as of September 2015. The South Atlantic region currently has about 11% of the nation’s 9,968 megawatts (MW) of utility-scale PV capacity, largely in North Carolina. Until now, Georgia has installed relatively little solar PV capacity, but the state plans to add more than 600 MW of utility-scale solar by the end of 2016.
Note: Capacities for October-December 2015 and all of 2016 reflect reported planned additions.
North Carolina Leads in Utility-Scale Solar
North Carolina is making big moves in solar energy. Unlike small rooftop systems, utility-scale solar farms each produce at least one megawatt of power. These large systems feed clean electricity straight into the grid.
In 2014, North Carolina was second only to California for new utility-scale solar capacity. Moreover, planned installations for 2015 suggested it would keep that strong position. This success shows how policy support, falling costs, and teamwork between utilities and developers can boost renewable energy.
As a result, North Carolina is now a leader in clean energy. It proves states can grow solar power even without perfect conditions.
Utility Scale Solar : Strong National Rankings
The numbers show North Carolina’s impact. In 2015, the top five states for new utility-scale solar—California, North Carolina, Nevada, Georgia, and Utah—were expected to add over 80% of the nearly 3,000 megawatts planned nationwide.
This is a huge achievement. North Carolina competes with states known for strong sunlight and still leads most of the nation. Moreover, these projects bring real benefits. They create jobs in construction and maintenance. They provide steady income for landowners. They also increase local tax revenue.
In addition, utilities gain reliable, renewable power. Customers get cleaner energy that reduces pollution and supports healthier communities.
Meeting Solar Challenges
The South Atlantic region faces unique challenges. Although states like North Carolina and Georgia share similar latitudes with parts of the Southwest, their solar resources are weaker.
Moreover, good solar production needs more than latitude. Direct and diffuse sunlight levels matter too. Factors like cloud cover, humidity, and atmospheric gases reduce the amount of sunlight reaching panels. That’s why places like Southern California, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico have some of the best solar resources in the world.
However, developers are finding smart ways to make solar work in the South Atlantic. They use better panels and tracking systems that follow the sun. They also improve planning and forecasting to get the most from available sunlight.
Policies That Make It Work
North Carolina’s growth shows the power of good policy. State incentives help make projects affordable. Clear interconnection rules simplify the process of linking new solar farms to the grid.
Moreover, utilities sign long-term contracts with developers. This financial stability makes it easier to build large projects. In addition, permitting and construction processes have become more efficient. By working together, government, industry, and utilities have cut costs and reduced delays.
Georgia is also using similar strategies. As a result, the South Atlantic is showing it can become a true solar leader.
A Model for Other States
North Carolina proves that clean energy success doesn’t depend only on the best sunshine. With smart planning, strong policy, and new technology, any state can expand solar power.
Moreover, this approach supports local economies and creates jobs. It reduces carbon emissions and protects the environment. As more states look for cleaner energy, North Carolina offers a clear and practical model for a sustainable future.
Source: EIA.GOV
