August 18, 2017

Extremely Rare Total Solar Eclipse on August 21
Conserve Energy During the Eclipse!
A total solar eclipse will cross the West Coast of the United States on the morning of August 21 for the first time since 1918. This special sight occurs when the moon entirely blocks a portion of the Earth's view of the sun. 

This incredible natural phenomenon does have an energy cost, however.  California is expected to lose 4,200 megawatts of solar generation due to the eclipse. We can make up that lost energy if we all work together to reduce our electricity usage on the day of the eclipse, and reduce the need for expensive natural gas to power our grid. 

For tips on how to reduce consumption August 21, click here.

Let's appreciate our planet by both safely watching this event and responsibly conserving energy. 

Photo courtesy of The Weather Channel
WHAT: A   Total Solar Eclipse, with a viewable swath from Salem, Oregon to Charleston, South Carolina

WHEN: Monday, August 21. I n Contra Costa County, the eclipse is expected to start at 9 a.m., peak at 10:15 AM, and end around 11:30 AM.  

MORE: 
The San Francisco Exploratoriam's website will live stream the eclipse. 

IMPORTANT: Do not look directly at the eclipse. You can find important safety viewing tips from the American Astronomical Society or  NASA .
See you there, 
John  
John Gioia
Supervisor, District One 
Contra Costa County 
11780 San Pablo Avenue, Suite D 
El Cerrito, CA  94530 
510-231-8686 Phone