Avoiding Widespread Outages: Lessons from the Iberian Blackout

Earlier this month, a widespread power outage affected large parts of Spain and Portugal, disrupting homes, businesses and daily life. While the root cause is still being investigated, the incident offers a sobering reminder of how quickly a grid can become destabilized. It also reinforces a critical truth: resilience, flexibility and security must be built into our energy systems from the start. 

SMA Solar Technology recently published a White Paper with a deep dive into how grid forming solutions contribute to grid stability.

In the United States, the challenges are different but no less urgent. Aging infrastructure and increasingly extreme weather events continue to strain the grid. Events like the Iberian blackout should not be seen as isolated. They signal the need for serious investment in a modern renewable energy grid that supports a cleaner energy future. 

Renewable energy, particularly solar, is often questioned during outages. But solar is not the problem. It is a reliable and proven solution when paired with the right supporting technologies. 

The key is integration. Battery storage, black-start capability and grid-forming inverters maintain balance during stress. At SMA we are committed to enabling a secure energy system built entirely on renewables. Our grid-forming technology provides inertia, voltage control and restart capabilities even when conventional power plants go offline. These features strengthen resilience and support greater energy independence. 

SMA’s large-scale energy solutions are designed to respond in real time. Our systems deliver fast frequency and voltage support to restore stability quickly. Unlike systems that only supply energy, SMA solutions contribute actively to grid reliability. Utilities and grid operators can rely on our technology not only for clean power but for smarter infrastructure that supports long-term stability. 

As more renewables connect to the grid, this kind of active support becomes essential. SMA systems enable solar and storage to enhance grid stability and performance rather than simply feed it. 

Cybersecurity is also vital to resilience. Since the start of the war in Ukraine, cyberattacks on solar installations have increased significantly. Many attacks come from state-sponsored groups targeting aggregated energy systems. SMA has responded by collaborating with European partners to assess risks and develop solutions. We continue to engage in regulatory discussions to help shape a secure renewable energy landscape. 

Our products undergo regular vulnerability testing by independent researchers, and we provide frequent remote updates to strengthen protection. These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to safety and cybersecurity leadership across the global market. 

The Iberian blackout serves as a warning. But with the right strategy, technology and commitment, we can build a grid that powers the future and protects it. 

If you are a utility, developer or policymaker focused on grid resilience or security, explore how SMA’s solutions can support your goals. Visit www.SMA-America.com or connect with our team to learn more.