Blackout Shrouds Puerto Rico Amid New Year's Celebrations

A massive blackout plunged nearly all of Puerto Rico into darkness on December 31st, affecting over 1.3 million clients. Luma Energy attributes the outage to an underground power line failure. Governor-elect Jenniffer González Colón vows to prioritize stabilizing the energy grid, while President Biden offers federal help.

A widespread blackout hit Puerto Rico early Tuesday, affecting 1.3 million clients during New Year's preparations. The island remained mostly dark as officials mentioned it could take up to two days to restore power. Luma Energy, responsible for electricity distribution, reported an underground power line failure likely caused the outage.

Governor-elect Jenniffer González Colón, taking office on January 2, called for a new 'energy czar' to investigate potential breaches by Luma as she prioritizes energy grid stabilization. President Joe Biden has offered federal assistance to help expedite power restoration. The ongoing blackout, while unusual, highlights extensive issues with the island's frail power infrastructure.

As the outage shuttered businesses and left many reliant on generators, residents like Julio Córdova adapted by using alternative lighting. The blackout increased criticism of Luma and Genera PR's management, with complaints growing over systemic failures affecting everyday life. Puerto Rico's energy crisis underscores broader issues stemming from a neglected power grid worsened by Hurricane Maria.

(With inputs from agencies.)