TenneT is preparing for the potential energy impact of a partial solar eclipse set to occur tomorrow across Europe, particularly over the Netherlands. The eclipse is expected to pass over the country between 11:12 AM and 1:07 PM, potentially affecting solar power generation due to its effect on sunlight.
The solar eclipse could lead to a significant reduction in solar power production, with TenneT predicting a maximum loss of 4.6 gigawatts (GW) in solar generation if the weather remains clear. Over the past four months, TenneT has taken steps to mitigate the impact of the event on the national electricity grid, including the formation of a dedicated solar eclipse team.
Wouter Krajenbrink, a member of the solar eclipse team, noted, “It looks like it will be a largely sunny day on Saturday, with a chance of some clouds. In a completely clear weather scenario, we foresee a maximum reduction in solar production of 4.6GW.” He added that the eclipse could also temporarily lower temperatures, potentially reducing wind energy production due to decreased air currents. Krajenbrink continued, “Although such a ‘clear-sky’ scenario is unlikely to occur, we nevertheless foresee a significant decrease in solar production and possibly some wind production in the Netherlands and the rest of Europe.”
As a result of these potential fluctuations, TenneT will hold consultations with European high-voltage grid operators on Saturday morning to ensure any operational challenges are addressed. Krajenbrink reassured that TenneT’s operators are well-prepared and will closely monitor the situation to maintain a stable electricity supply.
Fred van Halm, another member of TenneT’s solar eclipse team, highlighted the rapid growth of solar capacity in the Netherlands in recent years, noting that the installed capacity of solar parks has risen significantly to a peak of 25GW. He emphasized that the key challenge during the eclipse is the rate at which solar power production declines and recovers, especially given the increased solar capacity. “What is especially important in the event of an eclipse, however, is how quickly this power decreases and builds up again,” van Halm explained. “Due to the increase in installed capacity, it is considerably steeper than the solar eclipse we had in 2022.”
TenneT’s preparations also account for the steep rate at which power fluctuations could occur, with a maximum offtake rate of 82 megawatts per minute and a maximum recovery rate of 138 megawatts per minute. Van Halm stated, “We have to be able to absorb that to keep our system in balance.”
TenneT’s proactive measures aim to ensure the stability of the energy supply during the solar eclipse and address any operational issues that may arise.
