U.S. solar energy grid braces for solar eclipse event

While the continental U.S. is eagerly awaiting the solar eclipse, solar energy plants are preparing for that brief moment when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun.

On average, the solar eclipse in its totality will last around two minutes and 40 seconds, leaving eclipse-gazers in awe from Oregon to South Carolina as they witness the Sun’s corona behind the Moon. No matter the percent of visibility, the solar grid will be impacted, most heavily in western states, where a vast majority of solar plants operate.

 For those 1.4 million households in the U.S. that do rely on solar energy and have a solar system installed, there will be a slight drop off in power generation.“As far as solar panels, we are expecting this to impact places where the grid depends on solar power. Luckily, everyone knows this is coming," said NASA scientist, Michelle Thaller. "So if you're in an area that depends on solar energy, there will be a slight drop in energy, but that's being prepared for."

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