Blackout Hits Hard
Spain and Portugal have fully restored power after suffering the most significant blackout in their history, sparking fears of a security threat and triggering a major investigation into possible terrorism.
Massive Disruption in Seconds
The outage on Monday wiped out nearly 60% of Spain’s power supply in just five seconds. Transport systems, communications, and schools were paralyzed. Thousands were stranded in elevators and metro stations, while businesses struggled with equipment shutdowns.
Solar Plants Possibly Linked
Spanish grid operator Red Eléctrica (REE) ruled out cyber attacks but confirmed two major generation losses—possibly from solar facilities in the southwest—caused the system collapse. Interconnection with France was also disrupted.
Terrorism Under Investigation
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said all possibilities remain open, including terrorism. Spain’s High Court has launched a formal probe into the incident, with Sánchez urging patience as authorities analyze the cause.
Emergency Measures Enforced
A state of emergency was declared in several regions, deploying 30,000 police officers. In Madrid, shelters were set up for stranded commuters, and Red Cross workers assisted at major transit hubs.
Economic Fallout and Criticism
Investment bank RBC estimated the blackout’s cost between €2.25 billion and €4.5 billion, criticizing Spain’s energy infrastructure for over-relying on renewables without adequate storage backup.
Experts Warn of Grid Fragility
Energy analysts noted the vulnerabilities of mixed power systems that rely on both renewables and traditional sources. Professor Victor Becerra emphasized that cascading failures are likely when one part of the grid goes down.
PM Defends Renewable Strategy
Sánchez defended Spain’s green energy policy, stating that even nuclear plants failed to reactivate post-blackout. “It was an extraordinary incident during otherwise normal conditions,” he said.
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