UNSW study finds bushfire smoke cuts solar output 30-70% far from fire

Australian researchers found that bushfire smoke reduces PV generation significantly even hundreds of kilometers away, while elevated temperatures accelerate module degradation, underscoring climate risks to solar infrastructure.

First covered Oct 28, 2026 · 1:00 AM PT · 1 article · no longer in the live window

UNSW study finds bushfire smoke cuts solar output 30-70% far from fire — Image via pv-magazine.com

Coverage

14d PV Magazine UNSW study finds bushfire risks to PV assets extend far beyond direct fire damage — Australian researchers found that bushfire smoke can reduce solar power generation by up to 70% near fires and by 30% to 40% in areas more than 150 km away.

More coverage from around the web

esdnews.com.au Bushfire smoke can reduce solar farm output by 70%

pv-magazine-australia.com Better bushfire smoke forecasting could improve solar farm output - pv magazine Australia

einpresswire.com Solar farms should prepare for bushfire effects, which can reduce output by 70%

miragenews.com Bushfires Can Cut Solar Farm Output by 70%

now.solar Bushfire smoke can reduce solar farm output by 70%

Appeared in: 2026-10-28 (#3)

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