ENTSO-E has published its comprehensive report into the root causes of the Iberian blackout that occurred on 28 April 2025, along with a set of recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. During the presentation of the final report, ENTSO-E President Damián Cortinas emphasized that the blackout was not related to renewable energy, but rather to voltage control. He stated that the recommendations are practical and can be implemented immediately, noting that voltage control has long been a known challenge for grid operators.
While a complete review of all findings is still in progress, the report clearly illustrates the complexity of operating a modern electricity grid and provides valuable lessons for the future. In response to the report, several industry associations have issued a joint statement. They noted that the ENTSO-E report offers much-needed clarity after months of speculation and rumours regarding the blackout. They also cautioned against assigning blame prematurely following any future grid incidents.
The associations highlighted that the incident should be understood in its proper context. Solar generation has expanded rapidly across Europe, outpacing the speed at which grid regulation could adapt. Today, solar and wind power are the largest sources of electricity in the European Union, and both have the technical capability to support voltage stability when properly integrated. Spain updated its Operational Procedure 7.4 on 12 June 2025 to allow renewable energy sources to contribute to voltage control. The full implementation of this procedure was completed on 17 March 2026, creating a more robust system that is better equipped to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The associations emphasized that with the right frameworks in place, solar power and battery energy storage systems (BESS) can enhance grid stability. A stronger, more resilient network not only supports cleaner and more affordable electricity but also reduces Europe’s reliance on imported fossil fuels. The Iberian blackout should be treated as a learning opportunity. It highlights the importance of transparent communication and information sharing between system operators, generators, and all relevant stakeholders. The associations expressed their readiness to support transmission system operators (TSOs), distribution system operators (DSOs), and other stakeholders in addressing these challenges across all scales of the electricity system.
The role of solar power and BESS in strengthening Europe’s energy resilience must be recognized. The need for homegrown electricity has become more critical due to the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and its potential long-term effects on energy costs. Ensuring the stability of Europe’s electricity grid and updating regulations to align with the evolving energy landscape is essential.SolarPower Europe, the Spanish PV association UNEF, the Portuguese renewables association APREN, the Global Solar Council, and the Global Renewables Alliance have reiterated their call for accelerated regulatory updates.
These updates are needed to improve grid resilience, stability, and system flexibility, including enabling renewables to provide dynamic voltage control and supporting the integration of battery storage and grid-forming inverters. These technologies are already available and should be deployed to maintain stable voltage levels, manage variability, and provide reliable renewable-powered electricity across Europe.
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