Utility‑scale solar outpaced natural‑gas generation in the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) during the first five months of 2026. Solar output rose 21 % from the same period in 2024, while gas fell 60 %. On 82 % of those days solar produced more electricity than gas, up from 21 % in the two prior years. overall, the trend marks a major grid transition.

From April 2024 to April 2026 solar capacity expanded 19 % to 25 GW, and net battery storage jumped 79 % to 16 GW. Gas‑fired capacity lingered near 29 GW, leaving total net capacity 14 % higher at 11 GW. Batteries, often paired with solar, charge midday and discharge at night, tripling their output compared with 2024. These additions helped shave peak‑load pressure and reduced reliance on fossil‑fuel peakers.

Despite a 7 % demand rise, net generation fell 19 % as imports doubled, driven by cheaper hydro from the Pacific Northwest and wind from New Mexico’s Sun Zia project starting April. Retirements between May 2024 and May 2025 removed 555 MW, including a 300 MW battery that burned in January 2025. The shift underscores California’s accelerating move toward solar‑battery dominance. It also demonstrates the value of flexible storage in balancing intermittent supply.