Spain's grid cites origin of blackout on large tension oscillations and "incorrect operation" of photovoltaic plant

Spain's national grid operator, Red Eléctrica, cited that the origin of the April 28 blackout started due to large tension oscillations and the "incorrect operation" of a photovoltaic plant in Badajoz, in western Spain.

Red Eléctrica did not report on which plant the issue happened, alleging confidentiality. During a press conference to unveil the company's report on the blackout, Concha Sánchez, COO, said that during the morning of April 28, they did not "have any notice of what would happen after."

The company also said that they did not replace a failed energy plant on Sunday April 27 as "after data operations, we were able to conclude that it was not required to replace it, based on all the information that they had at the moment," Red Eléctrica president Beatriz Corredor said during the press conference on Wednesday.

During the statements, the managers of the company ruled out taking any responsibility, and any legal decision should be taken by authorities such as the market regulator or the judicial branch.

"We did not break any legislation and we worked diligently at all times," Roberto García Merino, CEO of Redeia (commercial name of Red Eléctrica), said during the statements.

Corredor rejected, once again, stepping down and wondered if they would ask presidents of electrical companies to step down if it is proven that "they were responsible for the blackout."

Spain went blacked out on Monday, April 28, at midday for over 12 hours, affecting all cellular service, infrastructure such as Rodalies and Metro, and many were forced to stop working due to the lack of electricity.