Power System Operation During Solar Eclipses: International Lessons Applied in Australia

Abstract

Solar eclipse events are emerging as an operational challenge for electricity networks with photovoltaic generation. Recent international experiences of power system operation during solar eclipse events have been discussed and lessons applied in the Australian context. All solar eclipse events affecting Australian networks in the period to 2040 are identified. Forecasts of photovoltaic generation in the National Electricity Market during major solar eclipse events are presented. These findings are contextualized alongside international experience and Australian events to underline the scale and speed of these impending operational challenges.