Solar storm reaches earth: Svenska kraftnät informs about their activities to combat effects
A solar storm is a powerful energy burst consisting of particles and radiation. Solar storms that reach Earth affect the Earth's magnetic field and the particles can cause gas molecules in the atmosphere to glow, forming the aurora borealis.
As solar storms pose risks to the power system, several measures have been taken in response to the extreme solar storm warning.
Reduced transmission
- We have taken several measures during the night. In addition to increased attention to voltage fluctuations, we have reduced the capacity of the transmission between the Swedish electricity areas. We have also stopped some work in the network,’ says Pontus de Maré, Operations Manager at Svenska kraftnät.
During the heightened alert, Svenska kraftnät has also been in contact with the underlying regional and local grids, as well as large producers. During the night, they have not had any confirmed events linked to the solar storm.
High solar storm activity ahead
Solar activity is heading for a peak in 2025. This means that the risk of impact on the power grid is higher than usual. Svenska kraftnät monitors the sunspots and solar storms and measures the radiation from the sun.
- We prevent by increasing the margins. This is most noticeable by reducing the transmission capacity between northern and southern Sweden, says Pontus de Maré.