Spain's Gas Demand Skyrockets After Major Blackout

Spain experienced a significant surge in gas demand for electricity generation. This increase was driven by a major blackout in April, impacting Spain and Portugal. The blackout highlighted vulnerabilities in Europe's power grid despite renewable energy growth. Spain's gas grid operator reported a nearly 37% increase in combined-cycle generation. Total natural gas demand, including exports, rose by 6.6% during the first nine months. Spain also increased gas exports, particularly to France. The European network of electricity transmission system operators released a report on the blackout. The report identified excessive voltage as a primary cause of the power outage. The April blackout was unprecedented in its cascading disconnections. A final report investigating the root causes is expected in early 2026.