Consejeros Editorial Team
The solar eclipse on 12 August will have a limited and temporary impact on solar generation, specifically on photovoltaic power. Red Eléctrica’s algorithm estimates that this early sunset will reduce solar generation on the Iberian Peninsula by approximately 5 GW.
The phenomenon will occur during a time slot when this technology naturally begins to decline. In this context, the eclipse will bring forward and slightly accentuate this reduction in generation. Furthermore, it will not coincide with the usual peak demand seen on days in August, so its effect on the electricity system will be minimal.
Red Eléctrica has analysed the potential effect of the eclipse using its own mathematical model, developed to study the impact of this type of astronomical event on the electricity system. This tool enables the calculation of eclipse curves by geographical area and the estimation of their impact on electricity generation.
According to current forecasts and based on the best data available to date, Red Eléctrica estimates the maximum reduction in solar generation at approximately 5 GW, which is equivalent to around 13 per cent of peak demand on a typical Wednesday in August.
As with any forecast relating to photovoltaic generation, the final impact may vary depending on the weather conditions on the day, particularly cloud cover, which can modulate the effect of the eclipse. In the Balearic and Canary Islands, the phenomenon will not have a significant effect on photovoltaic generation.
Although this scenario is not expected to affect demand coverage, Red Eléctrica, as the system operator, will implement preventive measures. These include close coordination with official bodies, other European TSOs and national generation and distribution control centres, as well as increasing the usual reserves and safety margins, and the constant monitoring and tracking of the phenomenon.
