Clean Energy's Rally Is Outpacing AI's in 2025. Here Are 3 Renewable Energy Stocks to Buy Now.

Core Insights - Clean energy stocks are significantly outperforming the tech-heavy Nasdaq in 2025, with the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF returning 46% year to date compared to the Nasdaq's 20% rise [1] - The clean energy sector is experiencing a rally as electricity generation from renewable sources surpasses that of coal for the first time, with California now sourcing 66% of its energy from clean power, up from 41% in 2015 [2][4] Clean Energy Market Performance - The iShares Global Clean Energy ETF has a current price of $17.30, with a year-to-date increase of 46% [2] - Nvidia, a key player in the AI sector, has seen a 38% rise year to date, indicating that clean energy stocks are outperforming even leading tech stocks [2] Factors Driving Growth - The Trump administration's policies have created urgency in the clean energy sector, as companies must initiate projects by July 2026 to retain tax credits, leading to a national race to develop renewable energy infrastructure [3][4] - Bloomberg New Energy Finance has increased its power generation forecast for clean energy projects by 10% due to this urgency [4] Key Companies in Clean Energy - NextEra Energy: - A leader in wind, solar, and battery storage, with plans to add 8 gigawatts of solar and battery storage by 2029, enough to power approximately 6 million homes [7] - Achieved a 25% year-over-year earnings growth last quarter, with a revenue increase of 10.4% [8] - Has consistently raised dividends since 1994, with a current yield of 2.7%, targeting another 10% increase next year [9][10] - First Solar: - The largest solar panel manufacturer in the U.S., with shares up 38% year to date and a gross margin increase to 46% [11] - Currently valued with a P/E ratio of 20.6, lower than the S&P 500 average, and analysts forecast a 56.8% growth for the next quarter [12][13] - iShares Global Clean Energy ETF: - Offers a diversified investment in clean energy, tracking around 100 securities with $1.7 billion in assets under management [14] - The ETF has an expense ratio of 0.39%, making it an attractive option for investors seeking exposure to the clean energy sector without relying on individual companies [15]