European electricity operators are preparing for a temporary drop in solar power generation during next week’s solar eclipse, with grid authorities taking measures to ensure stable electricity supplies across the continent.
The eclipse on August 12 is expected to reduce photovoltaic power generation by as much as 9.7 gigawatts across Europe under clear-sky conditions, according to the European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity (ENTSO-E).
The reduction is expected between 19:15 and 21:30 CEST, creating a rapid but predictable change in electricity generation as the Moon passes in front of the Sun. Grid operators must carefully balance electricity supply and demand during the event to prevent disruptions.
ENTSO-E said operators are prepared to maintain the secure and stable operation of Europe’s electricity system. A dedicated task force has been established to coordinate preparations, monitor conditions and facilitate information sharing before and after the eclipse.
Spain, where the Moon will completely cover the Sun during a total eclipse, is expected to experience the largest decline in solar generation, followed by Germany. Europe had approximately 406 GW of installed solar capacity at the end of 2025, according to SolarPower Europe.
With solar power accounting for around 13% of Europe’s electricity mix, grid operators are increasingly required to manage short-term changes caused by weather and other natural events.
Authorities have briefed control-room staff, alerted electricity market participants and avoided planned grid outages during the eclipse to maintain maximum flexibility. Local operators will also receive updated solar generation forecasts from weather services to support real-time decisions.
The eclipse will be the first total solar eclipse visible from mainland Europe since 2006. Its path of totality will cross areas stretching from northern Russia through Greenland and Iceland to northern Spain and northeastern Portugal.-ERMD/TX
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