The reduction in solar energy output caused by wildfire smoke poses risks to the reliability of the power grid, especially during peak demand periods driven by heatwaves. States like California, Texas, Arizona, and Nevada, which rely heavily on solar energy, are particularly vulnerable. Smoke can also affect transmission systems by reducing the insulating properties of air around high-voltage lines, increasing the risk of faults and outages. While long-range smoke has a modest annual impact on solar resources, its short-term effects during extreme weather events can significantly disrupt energy supply and grid stability.