Spain's Blackout: Internal Chats Reveal Instability, Solar Concerns

Spain's April 28 Blackout: Internal Communications Reveal Concerns Over Renewable Energy and Grid Instability On April 28, 2025, Spain experienced a major power outage affecting the entire Iberian Peninsula. Informativos Telecinco has obtained exclusive access to internal communications from Red Eléctrica, Spain's electricity transmission system operator, revealing concerns about grid instability in the days leading up to the blackout. Twelve days before the outage, conversations between Red Eléctrica and an energy operator show the operator complaining about voltage fluctuations. Red Eléctrica acknowledged the system's instability, citing the limited amount of nuclear power in the system. The day before the blackout, further conversations highlight the problems with solar power integration. One operator stated, "We're experiencing a lot of voltage oscillations." A Red Eléctrica employee responded, "Yes, several areas are affected. Is it due to the photovoltaic system?" These communications underscore the challenges of maintaining grid stability while increasing reliance on renewable energy sources. The report concludes with footage of the blackout, demonstrating the vulnerability of the system. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities of transitioning to a more sustainable energy future and the need for robust grid management strategies.