When the power goes out, not only is the electricity supply interrupted, but the entire digital system that enables the flow of messages, calls, and communications is also affected. In Europe, more than 520 million people use mobile services daily, each line generates more than 50 GB of traffic per month, and 5G already exceeds 200 million active connections. All of this requires constant energy: approximately 0.12 kWh for every gigabyte transferred. The blackout of April 28, 2025, on the Iberian Peninsula was a clear example of what happens when this machine stops. The incident affected strategic points and tested the response capacity of media outlets, operators, and institutions, highlighting the critical role of infrastructure in emergency situations. Journalism in an exceptional situation
At RTVE, the power outage immediately activated emergency protocols to guarantee the continuity of public service, explains the network's operations director, Víctor Sánchez Espinosa. Broadcasting was concentrated on the main channels, the operation of critical equipment was ensured, and production was reorganized to adapt to the limitations imposed by the blackout. Simultaneously, newsrooms prioritized service-oriented reporting and live coverage, a return to the essence of journalism in critical situations.
Infrastructure with response capacity
While the media adapted to the circumstances, communication networks also operated under considerable pressure. Signal distribution, managed by Cellnex, remained stable despite the difficulties, allowing radio and television to continue reaching the public during the hours of greatest uncertainty. "It was crucial that radio and television reached all users that day because it allowed them to stay informed," Sánchez emphasizes.
Cellnex's CEO in Spain, Alfonso Álvarez, describes that day as "difficult and hectic." Critical networks—television, radio, and emergency radio communications such as police and fire services—held up thanks to previously deployed infrastructure: batteries, generators, redundant systems, and fuel supply agreements. These measures were decisive in ensuring the availability of services that cannot be interrupted.
An infrastructure prepared for the future
The nationwide blackout of April 28th demonstrated that, in an increasingly digitalized country, ensuring the continuity of communications is as essential as guaranteeing the electricity supply. This experience has reinforced the importance of investing in more robust and resilient telecommunications infrastructure, with support systems capable of responding to any eventuality. In this scenario, Cellnex has demonstrated its adaptability, keeping critical services operational during a time of extreme operational strain.
Cellnex, a European leader in telecommunications infrastructure
The company celebrates its tenth anniversary after a decade marked by sustained growth
Cellnex is celebrating its tenth anniversary after a decade marked by sustained growth and expansion that have positioned it among the leading European telecommunications infrastructure providers. Since its IPO in 2015 and entry into the Italian market, the company has expanded its presence to ten countries. This journey has included key markets such as Poland, the United Kingdom, and Portugal, while simultaneously driving business diversification and the deployment of essential 5G assets.
