Solar power growth concentrated in Trump-voting states
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States that voted for Donald Trump in the last presidential election are currently driving the majority of new solar energy construction in the United States.
The Solar Energy Industries Association reported that these states accounted for nearly three-fourths of the 11 gigawatts of solar power added in the second quarter of 2026, a 45 percent increase from the same period in 2025.
Texas and Florida led the nation in solar construction, continuing a trend established since 2024, alongside states like Indiana, Ohio, and Arizona. These states are attracting solar development due to their pro-business environments, available land, and streamlined permitting processes. Expanding industries, such as manufacturing and data centers, are also increasing the demand for affordable and quickly deployable energy sources like solar.
Tim Pawlenty, CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association, noted that these states generally have “a pro-build mentality.” However, future growth may be uncertain. Congress ended federal tax credits for many new solar farms on July 4, 2026, prompting developers to rush construction before the deadline.
While states like Texas with abundant sunlight may remain strong solar producers, states like Michigan, which recently entered the top ten, may face challenges without the credits, relying instead on state clean energy goals and continued demand. Despite these concerns, the solar industry emphasizes its ability to build projects quickly, offering a fast solution to energy needs.
