Power supply outlook could potentially see an extension, according to E-Networks' alert
Power Outage Ravages Spain, Portugal, and Parts of France
In a surprising turn of events, a massive power outage has wreaked havoc across Spain, Portugal, and portions of France on April 28, 2025. The chaos has brought transportation, healthcare, and communication to a grinding halt, leaving millions in the dark.
E-Redes, the operator of Portugal's electricity distribution network, pinned the blame on "issues with the European electricity system," necessitating isolation of parts of the network for stability[3]. Consequently, energy distribution in Portugal is taking a hit, with effects trickling down from the high-voltage network in Spain.
Portugal's REN -- Redes Energeticas Nacionais confirmed the widespread blackout across the Iberian Peninsula and French territories, signaling the activation of multi-stage restoration plans for energy supply. The blackout occurred at 11:30 Lisbon time.
As determining the cause of the power outage continues, rumors of potential grid instability and even cyberattacks circulate[1][2][3]. At this stage, the exact cause remains under investigation. While the outage largely spared Spain’s Canaries and Balearic Islands, mainland Spain and Portugal bore the brunt of the storm[2].
The restoration process is ongoing, with Spain's RedElectrica focusing on restoring power to northern and southern regions first. Portuguese authorities anticipate partial restoration by the day's end[2][3]. Meanwhile, Spain’s prime minister has called for an emergency meeting of the National Security Council, and Portugal’s Cabinet has held urgent sessions to coordinate responses[2][3].
With hospitals relying on emergency generators and water and internet access still compromised in some facilities, recovery timelines remain murky[1][2]. Suspended flights, trains, and metro systems pose challenges to the logistics of the restoration process[1][3]. As the scope of the damage unfolds, optimism for a swift recovery is dim.
The operator of Portugal's electricity distribution network, E-Redes, has confirmed that the blackout, which affected the Iberian Peninsula and French territories, was a part of a larger power outage that occurred on April 28, 2025, and spread to Spain. Universities in the affected regions are now operating under emergency plans as the energy industry grapples with the impacts of the event. Finance institutions are closely monitoring the situation, as the duration of the blackout and the subsequent recovery process could have significant economic implications. Despite ongoing efforts to restore power, a full blackout confirmation from French authorities has not been received yet.
