How will the U.S. solar eclipse of August 21, 2017 be different from the eclipse that will occur in April of 2024? (Hint, this is not an astrophysics, geography or geometry question, but just to briefly answer these science categories, the path of the August 21, 2017 eclipse will be a slight northerly arc from Oregon to South Carolina and cover a swath about 80 miles wide; the 2024 eclipse path will be from Texas to Maine with a slight westerly arc, and cover a swath of about 70 miles wide.)

The difference between the two eclipses I’m referring to has to do with their effect on solar power PV (photovoltaic) systems. The effect of this year’s eclipse will be negligible mainly because the level of solar penetration – the amount of solar power being put into the electrical grid – is not that great.

However, the level of solar power connected to the grid will be significantly greater in 2024. If we had the same level of solar PV penetration now as we will have in 2024, the eclipse could create instability in the grid because of voltage collapse along its path. Interestingly, we will have a different type of solar generation system when the 2024 eclipse occurs. Energy storage with smart power monitors and utility controllable inverters will be the standard in 2024.

Fortunately, there will be no noticeable difference in the effects to grid stability. Without energy storage and smart inverters that continually communicate with the utility, the effects of the eclipse would definitely be felt when the next eclipse occurs in the U.S., but we will sail through it as we would hope to, with our solar-safe glasses, a lawn chair and no worries about its effects on solar electric systems.

Enjoy the experience

Kelly Provence
Solairgen School of Solar Training Technology
IREC Certified Master PV Trainer
NABCEP Certified Professional PV Installer