Seizing the Opportunity: Advancing Renewable Energy Projects in the U.S. in 2025

By John King , Head of Commercialization in the Americas at Enfinity Global

?? The renewable energy sector in the United States is poised for transformative growth in 2025 and beyond. Solar and wind energy, paired with innovative battery storage solutions, are at the forefront of meeting the nation’s increasing electricity needs, according to KPMG, S&P Global, and Deloitte, projections reveal a remarkable surge in electricity demand over the next decade, driven by data centers, electric vehicles (EVs), and industrial manufacturing.

This growth can potentially open up vast opportunities for renewable energy developers to make a lasting impact. At Enfinity, we are excited to be part of this revolution as we work toward commercializing our growing 19GW U.S. development portfolio. Below, we discuss some of the drivers that can aid in this revolution and further the deployment of renewable energy. ??

?? Key Drivers for Renewable Energy Deployment

Unlocking Potential in Regulated Markets:

Enfinity’s development portfolio includes numerous projects in regulated wholesale electricity markets, such as the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) and the SERC Reliability Corporation . These markets, where utilities manage transmission, generation, and distribution within an integrated framework, can present a unique landscape for innovation and collaboration.

For example, large-scale energy users like data centers in WECC have a strong appetite for renewable energy. By working closely with utilities, renewable energy projects can serve as catalysts for creating new pathways that connect clean power to end users ultimately. These collaborations encourage utilities to embrace advanced energy solutions, broadening access to renewable power. While regulated markets operate differently from open-market regions like ERCOT , they can offer tremendous potential for trailblazing models of cooperation that may benefit utilities, renewable energy producers, and large end-users of electricity.

Advancing Market Designs for Greater Flexibility

The evolution of market designs in vertically integrated, regulated markets can unlock faster and more efficient transactions between renewable energy producers and large consumers. ? By adopting open-market frameworks such as those that currently exist in Regional Transmission Organizations like Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) , SPP , and ERCOT , we can empower direct sales between producers and end users. These changes to market designs can help to harness the true potential of renewable energy while fostering innovation. ?? The expected expansion of the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) into Colorado and neighboring states is likely just the beginning of a broader liberalization of power markets in the U.S. ??

Utilities can also champion customer-focused programs, such as green tariff initiatives, that simplify access to clean energy. For instance, Alabama Power’s Clean Energy Select program is a shining example of how utilities can bridge the gap between renewable developers and energy consumers, offering solutions that benefit all stakeholders. These approaches demonstrate the potential of aligning business models with environmental goals, creating a win-win scenario for utilities, developers, and customers alike. ??

Streamlining Transmission Interconnections:

The growth in renewable energy projects has brought new opportunities to modernize and optimize the grid. ?? While interconnection queues are a current bottleneck, efforts such as cluster-based studies and FERC’s Order No. 2023 may pave the way for smarter and faster integration of renewable projects. ?? Reforms are needed as interconnection times have extended over the last few years to become the primary driver of long lead times, delaying the deployment of renewable projects across the country. Embracing grid-enhancing technologies and advanced transmission solutions can present an exciting chance to reimagine the energy infrastructure of tomorrow. ??

Collaboration: The Key to Progress

Partnerships and collaboration lie at the heart of continued success for the renewable energy sector. ?? Utilities, transmission owners, and developers can collectively design strategies to optimize grid capacity and align project locations with growing energy demand. By fostering open communication and shared goals, stakeholders can accelerate the transition to clean energy while maintaining grid reliability and efficiency. ??

Data centers and other energy-intensive industries also play a pivotal role by engaging in policy advocacy and supporting market reforms. Together, these efforts can ensure that the renewable energy landscape continues to grow and thrive. ??

Join the movement

The U.S. energy landscape is entering a new era of growth and opportunity. By embracing innovation, modernizing processes, and strengthening collaboration across stakeholders, the renewable energy sector is well-positioned to meet surging demand while advancing the nation’s sustainability goals. At Enfinity, we are proud to contribute to this dynamic future, building projects that pave the way for a cleaner, greener energy system.

?? How do you see renewable energy transforming the U.S.?

Let us know in the comments!

About Enfinity Global

Enfinity Global is a renewable energy leader with a 32.1 GW portfolio across operational, under-construction, and development stages. With offices in the U.S., Europe, Japan, and India, we are committed to driving the global transition to a low-carbon economy. ?? Learn more: www.enfinity.global.

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