In 2024, Indiana emerged as a national leader in solar energy growth, securing the 10th spot in the United States for new solar capacity additions. This remarkable achievement underscores the state’s commitment to renewable energy and its potential to transform its energy landscape.

A significant contributor to this growth is the Mammoth Solar project, located in Pulaski and Starke Counties. With a planned capacity of 1,600 megawatts (MW), it stands as one of the largest photovoltaic power installations in the United States. The first phase, Mammoth North, began construction in March 2022 and was completed in July 2024, adding 480 MW to the grid. This project alone is expected to power approximately 250,000 homes, showcasing the tangible benefits of large-scale solar investments.

Beyond utility-scale projects, Indiana is poised to bring activate than $100 million in funds to bring solar energy to low-income communities across the state under the Solar Opportunities Indiana program.

Designed to spur the deployment of residential distributed solar energy, Solar Opportunities Indiana, which is part of the federal “Solar for All” program, will lower energy bills for Hoosiers and catalyze transformation in markets serving low-income and disadvantaged communities.  

The state’s overall solar capacity reached 3,539 MW by the end of 2024, ranking 16th nationally in total installed capacity. This capacity is sufficient to power approximately 428,674 homes, with solar energy accounting for 3.67% of Indiana’s electricity production. The sector also supports 4,103 jobs, a positive impact for the state’s economy.

Indiana’s ascent in the national solar rankings is a testament to the collaborative efforts of policymakers, businesses and communities. By embracing renewable energy, the state is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also fostering economic growth and energy independence.