Solar farms have become an increasingly significant part of the energy landscape in the United States, as states transition toward more sustainable energy solutions. The total number of solar farms varies significantly by state, depending on factors such as available land, sunlight exposure, and state-level incentives for renewable energy development. States like California, Texas, and Florida are leading the way, boasting the highest concentration of solar farms due to their abundant sunshine and proactive renewable energy policies. Meanwhile, smaller states and those in less sunny regions are also making strides by harnessing technological advancements and governmental support to expand solar energy production.
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Solar Energy in 2025
Solar energy is set to experience steady growth through 2025 and beyond, though not without its challenges. According to projections by the SEIA, the U.S. is on track to achieve a major milestone, with cumulative solar capacity expected to power over 71 million homes by 2029. By 2030, at least 15% of U.S. households are anticipated to have a solar PV system installed. Over the next decade, the SEIA forecasts the addition of 450 GW in new solar capacity, highlighting the expanding role of renewable energy.
Despite strong demand for solar energy, growth is likely to plateau over the coming five years due to persistent challenges within the power sector. Labor shortages, high-voltage equipment supply constraints, and delays in interconnection processes remain significant barriers to the industry's continued expansion.
The outcome of the 2024 election could also influence the trajectory of solar energy in the U.S. Federal incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) have driven the development of solar farms and rooftop installations nationwide. However, potential policy changes post-election could impact these incentives. As the nation advances toward a clean energy future, collaboration between policymakers and businesses will be crucial. By addressing industry challenges and maintaining supportive policies, the U.S. can ensure sustainable growth in solar energy that benefits both the economy and the environment.
How Many Solar Farms Does Each State Have?
When it comes to solar energy, each state plays a unique role in shaping the renewable energy landscape of the United States. Some states lead the charge with hundreds of solar farms powering communities and businesses, while others are just beginning to tap into their solar potential. The states with the most active solar farms are California, North Carolina, and Massachusetts.
Solar Farms in the Northeast U.S.
The northwest region of the United States is home to a growing number of solar farms as states increasingly turn to renewable energy sources to reduce their carbon footprint. While the adoption of solar energy varies greatly across the region, Massachusetts stands out as a leader, boasting the highest number of solar farms in comparison to neighboring states.
State | Active Solar Farms | Building Solar Farms | Planned Solar Farms |
Connecticut | 71 | 6 | 17 |
Massachusetts | 528 | 18 | 110 |
Maine | 90 | 32 | 126 |
New Hampshire | 1 | 0 | 7 |
New Jersey | 352 | 8 | 42 |
New York | 485 | 75 | 114 |
Pennsylvania | 48 | 10 | 27 |
Rhode Island | 63 | 9 | 6 |
Vermont | 57 | 2 | 40 |
Solar Farms in the Midwest U.S.
The Midwest region is steadily making progress in the transition to renewable energy, with solar farms playing a pivotal role in this shift. States across the region are adopting solar energy at varying rates, but Minnesota has emerged as the clear leader in the number of solar farms.
State | Active Solar Farms | Building Solar Farms | Planned Solar Farms |
Illinois | 154 | 0 | 173 |
Indiana | 103 | 9 | 27 |
Iowa | 20 | 7 | 6 |
Kansas | 18 | 3 | 2 |
Michigan | 57 | 14 | 137 |
Minnesota | 509 | 15 | 40 |
Missouri | 25 | 1 | 1 |
Nebraska | 11 | 5 | 65 |
North Dakota | 0 | 0 | 16 |
Ohio | 52 | 12 | 22 |
South Dakota | 3 | 2 | 0 |
Wisconsin | 73 | 11 | 32 |
Solar Farms in the Southern U.S.
The Southern region of the United States has become a prominent area for solar energy development, with several states making significant strides in adopting this renewable energy source. Among them, North Carolina stands out as the leader, boasting the highest number of solar farms in the region.
State | Active Solar Farms | Building Solar Farms | Planned Solar Farms |
Alabama | 10 | 1 | 8 |
Arkansas | 42 | 6 | 20 |
Delaware | 13 | 3 | 3 |
District of Columbia | 10 | 5 | 2 |
Florida | 174 | 31 | 7 |
Georgia | 138 | 5 | 56 |
Kentucky | 11 | 6 | 5 |
Louisana | 11 | 3 | 22 |
Maryland | 160 | 13 | 27 |
Mississippi | 19 | 2 | 16 |
Oklahoma | 13 | 1 | 3 |
North Carolina | 754 | 8 | 171 |
South Carolina | 112 | 7 | 129 |
Tennessee | 31 | 2 | 9 |
Texas | 437 | 30 | 101 |
Virginia | 100 | 26 | 95 |
Solar Farms in the Western U.S.
The Western region of the United States is a powerhouse for solar energy production, with many states capitalizing on their abundance of sunshine and open land to develop solar farms. Leading the charge is California, which boasts the highest number of solar farms in the region and plays a pivotal role in advancing renewable energy nationwide.
State | Active Solar Farms | Building Solar Farms | Planned Solar Farms |
Alaska | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Arizona | 98 | 6 | 55 |
California | 1,235 | 36 | 224 |
Colorado | 148 | 7 | 25 |
Hawaii | 26 | 3 | 8 |
Idaho | 11 | 1 | 1 |
Montana | 8 | 0 | 6 |
Nevada | 58 | 4 | 9 |
New Mexico | 102 | 3 | 11 |
Oregon | 123 | 6 | 51 |
Utah | 53 | 2 | 14 |
Washington | 8 | 1 | 7 |
Wyoming | 2 | 0 | 6 |
Which State Produces the Most Solar Energy?
Texas produces the most solar energy, adding a remarkable 2.4 GW of capacity in Q3 2024. Home to some of the nation’s largest solar farms, the Lone Star State now accounts for 26% of all new solar capacity added in 2024, firmly establishing its position as a renewable energy leader. Florida ranks as the second-largest contributor to solar expansion in 2024, with nearly 30,000 households transitioning to solar power in 2024. Meanwhile, California remains a powerhouse in solar energy production, boasting an impressive 49,777 MW of cumulative solar capacity.
How to Find Solar Farms in the U.S.
The increasing number of solar farms across the United States highlights the nation’s dedication to renewable energy and its role in combating climate change. From North Carolina to California, states are stepping up to reduce carbon emissions and invest in a sustainable future. If you’re interested in exploring the locations of solar farms across the country and learning more about renewable energy projects near you, subscribe to LandApp today. LandApp provides comprehensive details on solar farm locations nationwide, helping you stay informed and inspired by the green energy revolution:
