International. The recent power blackout that simultaneously affected Spain and Portugal left millions of people without electricity and paralyzed activities in entire areas, transport systems and essential infrastructure. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of connected power grids that lack adequate backup solutions.
The power outage impacted both large-scale infrastructure and homes, paralyzing essential systems in hospitals, airports and logistics centers, as well as everyday devices such as smartphones, computers and household appliances. This type of event is not exclusive to the Iberian Peninsula. Critical infrastructure across Europe – and in other regions – face similar risks due to the increasing complexity of the electricity system.
"The energy transition is changing the way we produce and consume energy, but energy security must remain a top priority. Electricity is, in fact, an interruptible energy vector. This is clearly demonstrated by these incidents, as well as by the increasing frequency of extreme weather events," said Fernando Velasco, CEO of Generac Mexico.
Velasco explained that, unlike diesel or gas, electricity cannot be stored in large quantities, so it is necessary to incorporate reliable backup systems. "A reliable electrical system must include reliable and easily accessible backup power solutions, such as properly maintained generator sets," he said.
During the blackout, those who had backup generators were able to continue their operations, while others were completely isolated. Velasco recalled a similar case that occurred in London, when a failure in the North Hyde substation knocked out Heathrow airport and caused the cancellation of more than 1,300 flights. "The blackout in Spain and Portugal once again highlights a crucial difference: having reliable energy solutions marks the line between resilience and vulnerability."
The fires that occurred in March 2025 in southeastern Mexico, which affected thousands of individuals in the areas of Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Yucatán and Campeche, were also mentioned by the company. The disruption impacted the functioning of homes, businesses and essential services, including communication through mobile communications.
Velasco stressed that the backup systems automatically come into operation in the event of a power outage and are turned off when the service is restored. "This allows daily activities to continue without interruption. This type of system offers an efficient, safe and reliable solution to maintain operational continuity at all times," he said.
Electric generators, the statement concludes, make it possible to keep homes and businesses running, protecting food, water and critical devices, as well as guaranteeing energy in remote areas without access to the conventional grid.
