Solar eclipse risks amplifying Europe's power issues

Next week's rare solar eclipse is expected to increase pressures on Europe's electricity grid, which is already struggling due to reduced output from nuclear and coal power plants caused by heatwaves and falling water levels. This has led to decreased production or the shutdown of many plants across countries such as France, Italy, Poland, and Romania. The eclipse, which will block over 90% of sunlight in large parts of Europe, is projected to significantly reduce solar energy generation—by up to 13% in Spain and 9.7 gigawatts across the continent at its peak—adding to the challenges of maintaining a reliable electricity supply. Despite the growing reliance on electricity imports, forecasts suggest the situation could worsen, especially in regions like Norway, which is experiencing the lowest levels of hydroelectric reservoirs in 30 years, with less than a 1% chance of returning to normal levels before the start of next year.

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