An upcoming solar eclipse is anticipated to see a significant drop in energy supply to Texas's power grid, as a lack of sunlight will see solar generation suddenly and dramatically decline.A total solar eclipse—when the sun is completely shrouded by the moon—is set to occur on April 8, passing from northern Mexico across the southwest and into New England. A 100 percent loss of sunlight is due to take place in Texas from around 12:10 p.m. to 3:10 p.m. CT .
By comparison, the New York power grid solar generation is predicted to peak at just over 3,500 megawatts, before falling to less than 250 megawatts.ERCOT says it is planning for the eclipse and 'will use available tools to balance the system' when it occurs. In the days and hours leading up to the eclipse, it will be monitoring generation and weather forecasts to ensure demand is met.Newsweek approached ERCOT via email for further comment on Monday.