Galician Hydro Plant's Quick Response Restores Power After Major Blackout

Galician Hydroelectric Plant Restores Power After Major Blackout A massive power outage plunged Galicia, Spain, into darkness on April 28th, 2025. However, within thirty minutes, power was restored to parts of Galicia and León thanks to the swift action of the Ponte Bibei hydroelectric power plant, located in the Ourense province. This facility, owned by Iberdrola, proved its resilience by operating autonomously, even with the external power grid down. The plant's director, Miguel Ángel López, explained, "This plant sends power to Trives, from where high-tension lines branch out towards Santiago de Compostela and Ourense. From there, other power plants start to connect, restoring power to the entire region." The plant, with its impressive 9km-long tunnel system, has the capacity to supply more than 180,000 homes. Its ability to quickly restore power is a testament to its robust design and the preparedness of its staff. José Balbino, the plant's chief, emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating, "We have to be ready for when this happens again." The incident highlights the critical role of such autonomous power plants in ensuring energy security during emergencies. The rapid restoration of power in a significant portion of Galicia showcases the effectiveness of well-designed and maintained infrastructure, providing a beacon of hope during a challenging situation.