Solar eclipse energy

What happens during a solar eclipse?

As the eclipse approaches its maximum phase, the air will get cooler, the sky will grow dimmer, shadows will sharpen and you might notice images of crescents — tiny projections of the eclipse — within them. Along the path of totality, the world will go dark while the moon inches toward perfect alignment with Earth and the sun.

Will a total solar eclipse affect power generation?

On April 8, 2024, another total solar eclipse will track across the U.S., causing perhaps an even greater loss of solar power generation. Although this will be the second total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. in under seven years, these events are a rare occurrence. Nevertheless, they present a unique challenge to power grid operators.

How did the solar eclipse affect energy use?

During the August 2017 eclipse, the loss of renewable power generation added up to nearly 6 gigawatts. That’s equivalent to the energy usage of 600 million LED lightbulbs or 4.5 million homes. Grid operators compensated by planning ahead and increasing power generation at natural gas and coal-powered plants, which don’t depend on sunlight.

How will the solar eclipse affect power grids?

During the 2024 total solar eclipse, power grids like ERCOT's will face a challenge due to the rapid fall and rise of solar power generation. The eclipse will cause solar power to drop and recover faster than during a typical sunset and sunrise. This is a significant issue because solar power is a major contributor to the power grid.

How much power will a solar eclipse reduce?

During a solar eclipse, solar panels within the Texas grid, where the eclipse first crosses into the US, are forecasted to experience a peak power reduction of 93 percent. The eastern power grid is expected to see a peak power reduction of 71 percent, while the western grid will experience a peak power reduction of 45 percent.

Can solar power be used in a solar eclipse?

By pairing solar power generation with battery storage, they can access electricity from solar even when the Sun isn’t shining – on cloudy days or at night. To plan for an eclipse, electrical system operators need to figure out how much the energy production will drop and how much power people will draw from the reserves.