California Solar Power Beats Natural Gas for First Time

For the First Time, California’s Solar Power Hits Record High, Surpassing Natural Gas

Utility-scale solar generated more electricity than natural gas in California’s Independent System Operator (CAISO) during the first five months of 2026. It is the first time solar has overtaken gas over such a long period. The milestone reflects California’s rapid transition toward clean electricity.

Solar generation increased 21% compared with the same period in 2024. At the same time, electricity produced from natural gas plants dropped 60%. Solar generated more power than gas on 82% of days between January and May 2026. That figure was only 21% during the same period in 2024 and 2025.

California has expanded both solar and battery capacity. Between April 2024 and April 2026, utility-scale solar capacity grew 19% to 25 GW. Battery storage capacity surged 79% to 16 GW. Natural gas capacity remained almost unchanged at 29 GW.

Battery storage played a critical role in the transition. Batteries stored excess solar electricity during the day and supplied it during evening and early morning hours. Battery discharge during the first five months of 2026 was three times higher than during the same period in 2024. This helped maintain grid reliability even as electricity demand increased 7%.

Despite stronger solar and battery output, CAISO’s total electricity generation fell 19%. The decline occurred because electricity imports from neighboring regions doubled. California imported more low-cost hydropower from the Pacific Northwest after drought conditions eased. It also began receiving electricity from New Mexico’s SunZia Wind Project, reducing the need for local gas-fired generation.

The milestone follows a broader clean energy trend across the United States. The U.S. Energy Information Administration expects utility-scale solar to continue setting new records as battery storage expands and more renewable projects enter service. Similar growth is also occurring in Texas and other major power markets.

Energy experts say California’s experience shows how solar power, battery storage, and regional grid connections can reduce fossil fuel use while keeping the electricity system reliable. As more batteries and renewable projects are added, solar is expected to play an even larger role in California’s electricity mix.

Sources:

• U.S. Energy Information Administration, Preliminary Monthly Electric Generator Inventory
• California Independent System Operator – (CAISO)

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