Utility-Scale Solar Is Soaring, With 32 Gigawatts Installed Across the US in 2024

Utility-Scale Solar Surges Ahead in the US with 32 GW Installed in 2024

Utility-scale solar in the United States is experiencing unprecedented momentum. With over 32 GW of new installations in 2024, commercial solar contractors are transforming the nation’s energy landscape at a pace unmatched in history. New England stands at the heart of this transformation, with companies like ACE Solar leading the shift to cleaner, resilient power.

A Record Year for Utility-Scale Solar Installations

Last year’s 32 GW milestone cements utility-scale solar as an energy powerhouse. For context, the US added just over 10 GW in 2020 and more than doubled that number by 2023 with 21 GW. The 2024 leap is a clear result of falling solar technology costs, growing demand for clean electricity, and smart policy incentives.

However, this record-setting pace is also uniquely driven by expiring tariff waivers, which encourage developers to rapidly install stockpiled panels before new tariffs take effect. While the American Clean Power Association expects a temporary dip in 2025, forecasts predict a strong recovery and long-term growth, with annual installations projected to reach 37 GW by 2030.

Utility-Scale Solar Powers Change

Utility-scale solar refers to large solar farms that generate electricity to feed the grid, providing clean, affordable energy to thousands of homes and businesses. Unlike smaller rooftop systems, these projects supply power at scale, driving big shifts in emissions, reliability, and grid stability.

America’s rapid solar surge is powered by falling panel prices, maturing technology, and a rising wave of support from businesses, municipalities, and states seeking greener energy portfolios. Lower costs per megawatt make utility-scale projects more competitive than fossil fuels in more regions than ever before.

Why 32 GW Matters

• Clean Energy at Scale

Thirty-two gigawatts is enough to supply millions of homes. It avoids substantial CO2 emissions, powering a real shift from fossil fuels.

• Regional Impact

New England and the Northeast are seeing rising investment and installations thanks to progressive policy, ambitious net-zero goals, and reliable solar resource partners like ACE Solar.

Driving Growth in Commercial Solar

The US solar boom is accelerating thanks to:

• Evolving Economics

Solar module costs continue to drop, while supply chain efficiency has improved. Soft costs, like permitting and land, still pose challenges, but overall project economics have never been better.

• Corporate and Utility Demand

Fortune 500 companies, data centers, and utilities are making big commitments to renewable energy, fuelling demand for new projects.

• Supportive Policy

Tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act have driven investment, though political uncertainty in 2025 may alter incentives. Regardless, the long-term trajectory points up.

ACE Solar’s Leadership in Utility-Scale Projects

Key Achievements

• 552+ MW installed: Proven track record across hundreds of solar farms and commercial projects.

• 92+ MWh battery storage: Integrating storage for grid resilience and reliability.

• 80,000+ metric tons of CO2 avoided annually: Equivalent to hundreds of millions of car miles taken off the road.

• 15,000+ homes powered per year: Delivering real, measurable impact to communities.

• 185+ million kWh generated each year: Clean, affordable energy that fuels local economies.

With decades of experience as a solar EPC contractor, ACE Solar handles engineering, procurement, construction, and ongoing management. That means developers, municipalities, and commercial property owners can trust one team for every phase, from site design to operations and maintenance.

The Benefits of Utility-Scale Solar Projects

Utility-scale solar brings many concrete advantages:

• Massive clean energy output: Just a year of ACE installations generates enough power for over five billion smartphone charges.

• Significant CO2 reductions: Each project slashes emissions, helping clients and regions meet net-zero and sustainability goals.

• Energy cost security: Solar contracts lock in competitive rates, shielding customers from fossil-fuel price spikes.

Overcoming Industry Challenges

Even as solar installations rise, the industry faces complex hurdles:

• Land use and grid integration: Finding suitable sites and connecting to the grid requires careful planning and strategic partnerships.

• Financing and incentives: Shifting federal policies and fluctuating tax credits demand expert navigation.

• Long-term operations: Ongoing maintenance and system upgrades call for experienced O&M teams.

The Growing Importance of Energy Storage

Battery storage is rapidly becoming essential for solar integration, smoothing out intermittent supply and strengthening grid reliability. ACE Solar is at the forefront, installing over 92 MWh of storage in recent projects. This ensures customers and utilities can maximize solar energy use, store daytime generation, and better manage demand peaks.

The Commercial Sector Takes the Lead

Solar commercial roof contractors represent a game-changing opportunity for commercial and industrial property owners to lower operating costs and build resilient, green portfolios. With expert partners, implementing solar is straightforward, well-proven, and tailored to unique property needs.

Looking Ahead for Utility-Scale Solar

Despite potential year-to-year fluctuations, the long-term outlook is bright. The average cost of utility-scale solar will drop from $46/MWh today to $38/MWh by 2030. Corporate power purchase agreements and ongoing innovations in batteries and grid software are accelerating that trend.

The transition won’t be free from obstacles–political and economic headwinds could slow short-term growth. But as costs fall and technology matures, utility-scale solar and storage will reshape how the US and New England keep the lights on.

Building the Future with ACE Solar

ACE Solar’s experience and expertise sets us apart among commercial and industrial solar contractors, delivering utility-scale, commercial, and solar roof projects that exceed expectations. Our commitment to quality, safety, and transparent partnership makes us a leading choice for clean energy solutions in New England and beyond.

Take the next step towards a resilient, sustainable future. Contact ACE Solar for a consultation and move your business forward with proven renewable energy solutions.