BAAJA Impact on the Electricity Sector: Capacity, Generation, Emissions and Public Health

Federal permitting delays are holding back new energy development, driving up costs and limiting America’s ability to meet rising electricity demand.

New analysis from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) examines how the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026 (BAAJA) could accelerate solar deployment, reduce reliance on new natural gas capacity, and deliver significant environmental and public health benefits.

The analysis finds that BAAJA would enable 167 GWac more net solar capacity additions from 2028 to 2035 compared with current law, increase solar’s share of electricity generation to 18.1% by 2035, and cut cumulative power sector CO2 emissions by approximately 20%. By reducing air pollution, the legislation would also deliver an estimated $54 billion in avoided public health damages, demonstrating how permitting reform can help America build more energy infrastructure while supporting affordability, reliability and healthier communities.

Download the one-pager to explore SEIA’s analysis of how BAAJA accelerates solar deployment, reduces power sector emissions, and delivers billions in public health benefits.

Read the report