Five States Lag in Solar Power Generation: Coal Industry and Awareness Challenges Hinder Renewable Energy Growth

The five states with the lowest percentage of electricity generation from solar power in 2023 were North Dakota, West Virginia, Oklahoma, Alaska, and South Dakota. These states are often overlooked for their significant contributions to renewable energy infrastructure. Factors such as public awareness and education on the benefits of solar energy, availability of alternative emission-free electricity from wind, hydro, and nuclear, can often be attributed to several factors such as lack of public awareness, public interest in solar power, and political challenges. West Virginia and Alaska are among the bottom five solar power states, with both being heavily influenced by the coal industry.