A letter to the editor at the Boston Herald highlights a historic milestone: in May 2026, solar power provided 12.8% of U.S. electricity, surpassing coal for the first time. Data from energy think-tank Ember shows solar is now the third-largest power source behind natural gas and nuclear. The letter argues against expanding coal for data centers and air conditioning, noting solar and battery storage made up 91% of new U.S. generating capacity in Q1 2026. The letter counters claims that coal saves consumers money, pointing to the hidden costs of climate disasters. It says renewable energy paired with battery storage can meet demand growth more cost-effectively than coal retrofits. The piece underscores a shift in the U.S. energy mix and the growing role of solar in grid decarbonization.
