Spain Mandates Mobile Network Reliability During Power Outages

In a move to enhance mobile network resilience, Spain is set to introduce new regulations requiring carriers to maintain service during power outages. By the end of 2026, a royal decree will be approved, mandating mobile network operators and infrastructure companies to install backup systems, such as batteries, to ensure connectivity for at least four hours in the event of a blackout. This rule will apply to businesses serving over 500,000 users or generating €50 million in annual revenue. The rollout will be phased, with half of the population covered in the first year, increasing to 65% in the second year, and 75% in the third.

This initiative aims to prevent disruptions like the massive power outage that affected Spain, Portugal, and France last year. While this approach may become less relevant with the integration of satellite connectivity into mobile networks, it is a prudent step towards ensuring temporary connectivity during outages. Additionally, the decree will require other critical infrastructure, such as control centers and emergency call centers, to have backup plans in place, including 24-hour service for control centers that could impact the entire country if they were to go offline.

Source: Engadget