Blackout: Government plans to invest around four billion in the electricity grid

The Minister of Environment and Energy announced that approximately 4 billion euros are being considered for investment in the national electricity grid, covering distribution, transmission, and extraordinary reinforcements following the April 28, 2025, blackout. During a parliamentary hearing, Maria da Graça Carvalho explained that this funding aims to enhance the resilience of the electrical system and reduce the likelihood of future large-scale failures. The plan includes 3.04 billion euros for distribution, 497 million for transmission projects, and 775 million for complementary projects. Additionally, the government is increasing battery storage capacity with 180 million euros from the Recovery and Resilience Plan and allocating 25 million for pilot projects in critical infrastructure. The minister also confirmed that four 'blackstart' power plants will be maintained to ensure autonomous recovery capabilities, emphasizing that while no country can completely eliminate the risk of such events, the goal is to improve operational response and system robustness.