IEEE OFCCT 2023: Keynote 2.0: Wildfire Smoke Impact on Solar PV Systems and Power Grid Stability: Insights from Recent Research

In the backdrop of escalating global wildfire incidents, wildfire smoke has emerged as a significant societal challenge, impacting both human health and power grid operations. A noteworthy repercussion has been its adverse effect on solar PV systems which are increasingly being integrated into power grids worldwide. As smoke plumes from wildfires reduce the incident solar radiation, there is a marked decrease in the power output from these systems, posing considerable threats to the stability and reliability of power grids. This webinar will delve into the quantification and estimation of wildfire smoke's impact on power grids, primarily focusing on its effects on solar PV system performance. Our recent research has paved the way to comprehend this intriguing interaction, which will be the crux of the discussion. We aim to shed light on the complex interplay between wildfires, smoke, and renewable energy production, enabling stakeholders to make informed decisions and develop resilience strategies. Join us as we unpack these findings, fostering a comprehensive understanding of this pressing issue and its implications for sustainable power production and grid stability in the face of rising wildfire occurrences.

This keynote is in collaboration with the IEEE Technical Community for Climate Change.