RGI Statement Blackout in the Iberian Peninsula

Many were quick, without any evidence, to prematurely attribute the blackout that occurred in the Iberian Peninsula on 28 April 2025 to renewable energy sources (RES). The investigation is still ongoing at both national and EU levels, and it will take time to fully assess what has happened. RGI urges a cautious and fact-based approach to public discussions, as root causes are yet to be determined.

Whatever the causes, it is of paramount importance to continue and even accelerate investment in robust electricity grids, flexibility options, to further integrate growing shares of renewable energy sources. European TSOs have long developed and operated the world’s most interconnected electricity system, and many Member States, including Spain and Portugal, are increasingly demonstrating the feasibility of operating with high shares of renewables for extended periods. RGI acknowledges the swift and effective response by Red Eléctrica and Redes Energéticas Nacionais (REN) in restoring system operations following the blackout,which generated essential lessons that will increase system security while we transit to a fully decarbonised energy system.

A decarbonised system requires coordinated and forward-looking system planning and a system supportive behaviour of the generation units. While we increase shares of variable RES, regulatory frameworks should evolve further to enable planning and operation that considers electricity grid infrastructure across all voltage levels, demand, flexibility solutions, and renewable generation – particularly wind and solar – as integral components of the system, not add-ons. Such a holistic approach will unlock optimisation opportunities and flexibility options across the energy system; it will increasingly provide system operators with the tools to deliver essential services efficiently and reliably.

RGI reaffirms that Europe can and should transition to a fully decarbonised energy system largely based on renewables. Once fully analysed, the incident can offer valuable insights into processes and system services as well as technical requirements across the energy system value chain to maintain system stability and security. In turn, this will enhance Europe’s competitiveness, energy security, affordability, and resilience.

To create a common understanding of the concepts and terms involved in the public debate as well as enhance knowledge on the functioning of the energy system, RGI, together with our Members, has compiled a glossary.Electrification has become an increasingly important topic within RGI’s workstreams over the past years as its development will influence future grid needs and our energy system overall.