Happy Friday!
June 12, 2026
The America First Energy Project here to bring you our perspective and matters we know are important for the community, decision makers, and economy of a strong, energy-independent state.
Markets, Not Mandates:
Solar Reaches a New Milestone
One of the most interesting energy stories in America this year isn’t about politics, it’s about markets. For the first time ever, solar power generated more electricity than coal in the United States during the month of May. Solar supplied 12.8% of the nation’s electricity while coal accounted for 12.2%, marking another milestone in the ongoing evolution of America’s energy portfolio.
The numbers are significant. Solar generation reached a record 45.5 terawatt-hours in May, up 17% from a year ago and making solar the third-largest source of electricity in the country behind natural gas and nuclear power. At the same time, coal’s share of the electric generation mix has continued to decline as older plants retire and newer technologies enter the market. In just five years, solar’s share of the U.S. electricity mix has more than doubled.
What this demonstrates is that America’s energy future is not an either-or proposition. The growing demand from manufacturing, LNG facilities, artificial intelligence data centers, and economic development projects will require every available source of reliable power. Natural gas, nuclear, coal, solar, battery storage, and emerging technologies all have a role to play in keeping the lights on and the economy growing.
Here in Louisiana, that’s exactly why America First Energy Project Louisiana continues to advocate for an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy. The goal isn’t picking winners and losers, it’s ensuring we have enough affordable, reliable, and domestically produced energy to meet future demand. As our state’s economy grows and major projects continue to invest in Louisiana, energy diversity will be one of our greatest strengths. That’s not a Red issue or a Blue issue, it’s a Red, White, and Blue issue.
From the Road
On Thursday, the America First Energy Project Louisiana attended the Livingston Parish Council meeting to discuss the recently pass moratorium on solar projects. Great dialogue was had and we will be working with the council to draft rules and regulations that match the culture and values of Livingston Parish and provide additional tax dollars and economic development.
Where We Went
The AFE team was in St. Helena, St. Tammany, East Feliciana Parish, Livingston Parish, and Morehouse Parish!
Where To Next
We’ll be in Calcacieu Parish, St. Tammany, Ouachita Parish, East Felciana Parish, and Morehouse Parish.
WHAT WE READ
Solar generates more energy in US than coal for first time
– The Guardian
Solar continues to gain ground in the U.S. energy mix, reaching a major milestone in May when it generated more electricity than coal for the first time. Solar supplied 12.8% of the nation’s power compared to coal’s 12.2%, reflecting years of steady growth as coal generation continues to decline.
The trend comes as electricity demand rises due to AI, manufacturing, and electrification. Industry data shows solar and battery storage accounted for 91% of new generating capacity added in the first quarter of 2026, reinforcing solar’s role as one of the fastest-growing and most cost-effective sources of new energy despite shifting federal policy priorities.
Want to keep up with the America First Energy Project? Sign up, or forward to a friend!
