Canadian wildfires are reducing solar power generation in Europe

The 2023 Canadian wildfires have been linked to a 3% reduction in solar power generation across Europe and North America, costing nearly $2 billion, according to a new study. Satellite images reveal the smoke from the Donnie Creek fire in British Columbia drifted over large portions of the northern hemisphere, diminishing the amount of sunshine reaching the ground.

Fire researcher Iulian-Alin Roșu at the Technical University of Crete in Greece warns that such events are becoming more frequent, likely occurring annually from now on. The study, co-authored by Roșu and Matthew Jones from the University of East Anglia in the UK, analyzed pollution maps and solar generation data in North America and Europe, taking into account the fact that the cooling effect of smoke marginally boosts solar panel efficiency.

However, the researchers found the impact of reduced sunshine was much greater than anticipated. North America, primarily the US, suffered a $711 million loss, while Europe, with a higher electricity price and fewer unaffected solar installations, incurred an estimated $1.17 billion in losses. The study emphasizes the need to recognize the far-reaching consequences of wildfires, including their effects on solar power production, pollution, health, and weather patterns.