Thursday’s solar eclipse has prompted the rulers in Germany to “prepare” their power grids in case there is a plunge in output. The solar eclipse is set to cast a shadow over most of Europe.

According to Reuters, citing Amprion GmbH, which is one of four transmission system operators for electricity in Germany, the solar eclipse could result in a plunge of about 1 gigawatt (GW) in the country. Amprion added that the solar power generation is expected to dip between 9:20 GMT and 11:40 GMT on Thursday as the solar eclipse event occurs. During this period, Germany’s four high-voltage grid operators, or TSOs, will have to draw from alternative energy sources such as coal, gas, nuclear, and hydroelectric energy to keep the grid balanced.

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“The network frequency has to be stable, and swings in production must be balanced,” said an Amprion spokeswoman.

While the impact of this particular eclipse may be insignificant, all four TSOs are preparing to mitigate any effects of grid destabilization. These market players will issue an analysis on Wednesday of the likely grid situation.

Germany can produce about 40 GW of solar power, but output depends on the sunlight intensity and cloud cover. Much of the darkness will be seen in northern Germany, with an estimated 20% covered skies by the eclipse, while in southern Germany, the rate will likely be 2.5%. The country doesn’t have enough power storage capacity. -ZeroHedge

The electricity outlet could plummet by 15% during the eclipse. The rulers aren’t panicking the masses over a complete loss of power. It is always good to be prepared, however, and know what is going on when it comes to the power grids.  The masses will lose their minds if they lose power for an extended amount of time.

Stay prepared, it’s still difficult to say what could go on during the remainder of this year.