Energy suppliers and grid operators are preparing for the impact of this week’s eclipse on solar power generation.
On Wednesday 12 August, the sun will be partially blocked across much of western Europe with large swathes of Spain, and smaller segments of Portugal, Greenland and Iceland experiencing a total solar eclipse.
With solar power a major part of Europe's energy mix – accounting for approximately 13 per cent of EU electricity generation in 2025 – the roughly two-hour event could throw power generation off balance.
Solar accounts for an even larger part of Spain’s energy mix – between 21 and 22 per cent. As much of the country will experience a total eclipse, it could be uniquely affected.
Spanish grid operator Red Eléctrica de España (REE) has announced precautionary measures to counter the anticipated impact on photovoltaics (PV), which it expects to be “limited and temporary”.
