List of Top 10 Most Solar States in the U.S. with Solar Capacity

This article describes how the U.S. solar market is booming, and the top 10 solar states as of 2025, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). The use of solar energy is growing across the nation with a handful of states that have emerged as leaders and set the standard for a renewable future. Learn about these states' solar projects, key factors behind their success, such as pro-solar policies, abundant sunlight, and economic incentives, in this article.

Aug 7, 2025, 11:14 EDT
Top Most Solar States in the U.S.
Top Most Solar States in the U.S.

The United States is in the midst of a clean energy revolution, with solar power at the forefront. Spurred on by falling costs, technological advancements, and supportive government policies, the solar market is booming. However, the current federal solar tax credit is being ended nearly a decade early by President Donald Trump's new "Big Beautiful Bill," signed on July 4th

While this change may mean the credit won't be available in the long run, however, there is still a crucial window of opportunity for homeowners. Therefore, families can take advantage of the credit one last time by acting quickly, and making a significant investment in their homes to secure long-term energy savings and independence. This article explores the top 10 solar states, details the key factors, and the combination of elements that make a state a solar leader.

Check Out: List of Top 10 States that Produce Most Renewable Energy in the U.S. (2025)

List of Top 10 Solar States of 2025

Based on the latest data from official sources like the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), these are the states leading the U.S. in total installed solar capacity as of 2025.

Rank

State

Installed Solar Capacity (GW)

1

California

52.27 GW

2

Texas

43.56 GW

3

Florida

20.06 GW

4

Arizona

10.37 GW

5

North Carolina

9.7 GW

6

Nevada

7.98 GW

7

Georgia

7.46 GW

8

Virginia

7.04 GW

9

New York

6.82 GW

10

Illinois

6.18 GW

Source: Solar Energy Industries Association

Here are the Top 5 Most Solar States in the US

1. California 

California's leadership in solar is inspired by a long history of ambitious renewable energy goals and strong solar policies, including a strong net metering program. A recent example of the California Energy Commission is the approval of "the World's Largest Solar + Battery Storage Project in Fresno County under an Accelerated Permitting Program.

2. Texas 

Huge utility-prime projects, a deregulated energy market, and an abundance of open land suitable for giant solar farms are the main reasons why it is a booming solar energy state. For instance, the Starr Solar project is a 163 MW solar farm in Starr County, Texas. It was privately funded and is designed to deliver electricity into the local grid.

3. Florida 

The primary factors for the Florida state include the abundance of sunny days, and it increases domestic solar demand. Moreover, it also includes significant solar development led by the state's utilities. The state's growth in solar is largely driven by its utilities. For instance, according to CNBC, Florida Power & Light (FPL) has built more than 70% of the new solar capacity in Florida in recent years.

4. Northern carolina 

Carolina Solar Energy is a company that develops utility-scale solar projects in the state. They have partnered with local governments like the City of Raleigh to develop solar projects, as per the Carolina Solar Energy. Large-scale solar projects in northern Carolina are supported by strong public-private participation and profitable renewable portfolio criteria. 

5. Nevada status 

Large utility projects, a high proportion of solar energy in the state's overall energy mix, and an abundance of solar resources are the foundations of Nevada's success. The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) provides a state-by-state overview of solar policy and projects. 

Check Out: How U.S. Congressional Maps Are Drawn & Why It Matters?

What Makes a State a Solar Leader?

The success of these states isn't accidental. It's a combination of natural advantages and strategic policy. Find out the reasons why a state becomes a solar leader: 

  • Pro-Solar Policies: States like California and New York have set ambitious renewable portfolio standards (RPS), mandating that a certain percentage of their electricity come from clean sources. This creates a stable market for solar investment.

  • Abundant Sunlight: It's no surprise that states in the Southwest like Arizona and Nevada have a natural advantage. Their geography ensures a high number of clear days, maximising the efficiency of solar panels.

  • Economic Factors: The solar industry is a significant job creator. In states like California and Texas, the solar job market is thriving, attracting investment and fostering innovation. Additionally, some states offer attractive tax credits and incentives, making solar installations more affordable for businesses and homeowners alike.

This blend of supportive policies, favourable climates, and economic incentives is driving the U.S. toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. As technology continues to improve and costs fall, it's likely we'll see many more states joining this list of solar champions.

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Manvi Upadhyaya
Manvi Upadhyaya

Content Writer

    Manvi Upadhyaya is an experienced content writer who is passionate about creating authentic content by delivering credible facts to people. She holds a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication and is fond of art, languages, culture, and education. She has been a published co-author and compiler for many anthology book projects. She creates educational and informative content for international audiences. You can reach out to her at manvi.upadhyaya@jagrannewmedia.com

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    FAQs

    • What is a key solar project in California? 
      +
      The Darden Clean Energy Project in Fresno County, approved by the California Energy Commission, is being developed as the "World's Largest Solar + Battery Storage Project."
    • What is the future of the federal solar tax credit? 
      +
      The federal solar tax credit, which provides a 30% tax deduction, is being phased out and will end on December 31, 2025. Homeowners are advised to act quickly to take advantage of it before the deadline.
    • What makes a state a leader in solar energy? 
      +
      States become solar leaders through a blend of strong pro-solar policies, abundant sunlight, and favorable economic factors like a thriving job market and tax incentives.
    • Why is Texas a booming solar state? 
      +
      Texas's solar boom is driven by vast utility-scale projects, a deregulated energy market, and plenty of open land for building large solar farms, like the 163 MW Starr Solar project.
    • What are the top 10 solar states in the U.S. as of 2025? 
      +
      Based on SEIA data, California, Texas, and Florida lead the U.S. in installed solar capacity, with Arizona, North Carolina, and Nevada following. The rest of the top 10 include Georgia, Virginia, New York, and Illinois.

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