The US energy storage sector recorded its strongest first quarter on record in 2026, with developers installing 9.7 gigawatt-hours of new capacity as demand for cleaner and more reliable electricity continues to grow.
According to a report from the Solar Energy Industries Association and Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, installations increased 32% year-on-year despite regulatory and permitting challenges facing the clean energy sector.
The growth reflects rising demand from data centres, volatile electricity prices and concerns over gas supply disruptions. Major technology firms, including Google and Meta, have announced large-scale battery storage agreements to support the rapid expansion of AI-powered data centres.
Energy storage is increasingly viewed as a key technology in reducing emissions and supporting renewable energy.
Batteries allow excess solar and wind power to be stored and used when demand is highest, helping reduce reliance on fossil fuel generation while improving grid stability.
Texas, Arizona and California led utility-scale battery deployments during the quarter. More than 70% of utility-scale storage installed was located in states won by President Donald Trump.
The report forecasts more than 610GWh of new storage capacity by 2030, although industry leaders warn that delays to federal project approvals could slow progress and increase electricity costs.
Darren Van’t Hof, interim president and chief executive of SEIA, said: “Energy storage’s remarkable first quarter only underscores the fundamental values of this technology.”
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