On Saturday 29th March at around 2230hrs the North Mole Power Station experienced a system disturbance which was initially associated with an instant loss of gas supply from the LNG Terminal. 

A statement from the GEA follows below:

However, after due consultation with experienced and knowledgeable LNG Terminal staff and whilst  continuing with our diagnostics protocol, it soon became clear that there was a high voltage (HV) cable  fault on the distribution network. 

This HV cable fault was causing our team of engineers difficulty in remotely reinstating electricity supply  to those areas affected by the power outage, these being the upper town, Catalan Bay, Sandy Bay,  Hassans Centenary Terraces and Beach View Terraces. 

At no point, prior or during this power outage, was there an issue with the LNG Terminal which could have  resulted in any unsafe situation or in the venting of natural gas to the atmosphere. 

A team of our highly skilled engineers was then mobilised and deployed to the substations which  distribute power to the affected areas. 

Following works undertaken to locate and isolate the HV cable fault, the power supply to the upper town  was restored at around midnight, with the power supply to Hassans Centenary Terraces and Beach View  Terraces restored just after 0030hrs. 

The HV cable fault was subsequently narrowed down to the cables feeding both the Catalan Bay and  Sandy Bay substations.  

Under the direct supervision of the Gibraltar Electricity Authority’s Chief Executive Officer, further  diagnostics were undertaken until the fault was pinpointed to a length of cable that runs from the  entrance to Eastern Beach to the old Caleta Palace Hotel site.  

Having isolated this section of the HV network, HV circuits were reconfigured, and power was safely  restored to Catalan Bay and Sandy Bay at around 0445 hrs.

At present, and pending further detailed investigation, all indications are that the fault is attributable to  cable failure and not to any possible damage caused by a contractor. 

We apologise for the inconvenience caused and thank you for your continued support.