Installed wind electric generating capacity in the United States surpassed conventional hydroelectric generating capacity at the end of 2016. However, it's important to consider some nuances:
Capacity vs. Generation:
While wind surpassed hydro in installed capacity, which measures the maximum potential output, hydro still generates more electricity in some years due to its higher average capacity factor. This means hydro plants operate closer to their full potential more often than wind farms, which are reliant on wind availability.
Solar is gaining ground:
As of September 2022, solar power generation surpassed hydro generation on a monthly basis for the first time, and the EIA forecasts solar to surpass hydro annually in 2024.
Here are some resources for further exploration:
U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA):
Electricity in the U.S.:
https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/...-from-wind.php
EIA expects U.S. annual solar electricity generation to surpass hydropower in 2024:
https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/in...=hydroelectric
Electricity Forum: U.S. wind generating capacity surpasses hydro capacity:
https://www.ge.com/news/reports/uniq...newable-energy