Spanish Oil Refineries Shut Down After Power Blackout

Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 29, On Monday, a widespread power outage across Spain and Portugal forced several oil refineries to suspend operations, including both plants managed by Moeve, Spain’s second-largest refinery operator. The disruption significantly impacted the energy sector and daily activities in the affected regions.

A petrol station of Spain's second-largest oil company Moeve, formerly known as Cepsa, is pictured along a highway near Barcelona, Spain March 1, 2025.

A Moeve spokesperson, representing the company owned by Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala and U.S.-based Carlyle Group, stated: “We have halted operations at both our refineries.” The announcement came in response to the power failure that affected the company’s facilities.

Earlier on Monday, Petronor, a subsidiary primarily owned by Repsol, reported that it had ceased all activities at its Bilbao oil refinery due to the blackout. Repsol, the country’s leading refinery operator, did not immediately provide a statement regarding its other facilities.

The power outage disrupted more than just the energy industry. It halted public transportation, caused significant traffic congestion in cities, and led to flight delays, affecting commuters and travelers across Spain and Portugal.

The cause of the power outage remains under investigation, with no official explanation yet provided. Authorities are working to determine the factors behind the extensive electricity disruption.

The suspension of refinery operations, combined with the broader effects on transportation and infrastructure, highlights the significant challenges posed by the outage. Efforts to restore normal operations are underway, with stakeholders closely monitoring developments.