Future remains uncertain for REN as normalization remains elusive
Title: recorded statement: massive power outage persists across Spain and Portugal, officials scramble for restoration efforts
In an official press release, REN - the electricity company in Portugal - admitted the ongoing struggle to restore power, stating, "the situation is still unpredictable." The power restoration operation is being executed in a zero-energy scenario, without any support from energy production sources, and concurrently, complex restoration efforts are ongoing in Spain.
As reported by the national electric system manager, the gradual re-energization of the electrical system involves a phased connection of numerous power producers. REN assured that all resources are dedicated to the recovery of the energy supply network across the nation, collaborating with production and distribution companies, as well as the Spanish Electric Grid.
The source of the widespread power outage in the Iberian Peninsula was first experienced in Portugal at 11:33. Authorities and electricity transport officials from both sides of the border are examining the potential causes of the morning's incident, with hypotheses ranging from a "strong oscillation" in the European grid to a potential cyberattack[1][2].
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez suggested that this strong oscillation might have played a part in the outage. Concurrently, Spain's national cybersecurity office raised temporary concerns about a possible cyberattack, yet both Portuguese and EU officials have disagreed with these claims[2].
As of the latest news, the power outage has caused significant disruptions, including closures of major airports like Madrid's Barajas and Lisbon's Humberto Delgado. Orange alerts have been issued, warning residents of the impact on telecommunications, with many struggling to access mobile networks[2]. Numerous hospitals and critical facilities have experienced problems as well, relying on backup generators to operate[1].
Officials are urging caution against speculation about the cause, with Teresa Ribera from the European Commission describing the outage as one of the most serious in recent European history[2]. The ongoing investigation aims to determine the exact cause of the outage, which is critical to preventing future disruptions. Meanwhile, millions could still find themselves in the dark tonight, with numerous systems and services affected, including traffic lights and ATMs[2].
[1] Al Jazeera
[2] The Guardian
- Despite the efforts from REN and Spanish Electric Grid, the French electricity providers have been called upon for assistance to alleviate the prolonged power outage affecting Spain and Portugal.
- The French electricity providers, known for their expertise, are expected to contribute to the phased restoration process, with on-ground personnel and technological resources helping to expedite the process.
- Meanwhile, general news outlets continue to report on the seriousness of the Iberian power outage, emphasizing the potential need for international collaborations to expedite the restoration, considering the potential consequences of the outage on a wider scale, such as interruptions in ATM services, traffic control, and telecommunications.
