An incident that reveals vulnerability
On April 28, at 12.33, an electric blackout affected the Iberian Peninsula, showing the weaknesses of the current energy system. Although the Balearic Islands, the Canary Islands, Ceuta, Melilla and Gibraltar were able to avoid the crisis thanks to their energy autonomy, the collapse affected the connections with France and Morocco, generating temporary chaos.
The contribution of renewable energy
At the time of the off, a notable 81.5% of the energy generation came from renewable sources, including 55% photovoltaic and 11% wind. However, the reaction of the system was alarming: the power fell from 35 GW to only 12 GW, with a drastic disconnection of 72% of renewable sources and 86% of non -renewable. Nuclear power plants, which could have provided stability, did not restart their operations until three days after the incident.
A polarized debate about the energy future
The shutdown has generated intense debate on the responsibilities of the incident, with criticism of renewable energy and a resurgence of nuclear defense. This debate, however, can divert the attention of the urgent need for an energy model and investments that are fundamental to ensure the sustainability and reliability of the system.
The need to manage change
The transition to renewable energy is not simply a matter of replacing energy sources; It involves a paradigmatic change in the management of the electrical system. Renewable energy sources need to be accompanied by technology investments that allow the integration and stabilization of the network.
Technical challenges and innovative solutions
One of the great challenges is the synchronization of frequency in a electrical network that is increasingly dependent on intermittent generators. Traditional power plants can manage fluctuations, while renewable parks require investors who can stabilize their production. The availability of advanced investors that generate their own frequency is key, despite the higher cost.
Storage: The key to sustainability
Energy storage emerges as a crucial need to balance supply and demand. The ability to accumulate energy, both through batteries and hydrogen, not only allows you to manage time variations, but also to stabilize the network in times of crisis.
Harcia a decentralized energy model
The future of the electrical system must contemplate a more decentralized and resilient structure. The creation of local energy communities, with the incorporation of green hydrogen technologies and a two -way network, could be the solution to facing current and future challenges.
A change of mentality
In addition to technical solutions, it is essential to foster a cultural change in the use of energy. Adopting more sustainable practices and avoiding waste is steps that society must take to ensure a more balanced energy future.
The recent electric crisis has highlighted the fragility of the current system, but also opens an opportunity to rethink and innovate in the energy model. Reflecting on the lessons learned, we can move towards a more sustainable and resilient system, capable of facing the challenges of the 21st century.