Due to the rise in electricity generated from wind and solar, 20% of electricity net generation in the U.S. came from renewable sources in 2021. Electricity generated from wind surpassed hydroelectric in 2019 as the predominant renewable source. Electricity generated from solar began a steep rise beginning in 2012 and quadruped between 2015 and 2021. Wood, waste, and geothermal sources of electricity have been stable over the years, while hydroelectric generation has varied from year to year. With the transportation sector shifting toward greater reliance on electric vehicles, the use of electricity generated from renewable sources is critical for reducing emissions associated with electric vehicle operation.
Source: Energy Information Administration, Monthly Energy Review, November 2022, Table 7.2a.