A widespread power outage left Santiago and much of Chile in darkness, affecting daily activities and transport systems. Key copper mines, such as Escondida, Codelco, Antofagasta, and Anglo American, faced disruptions, raising concerns for global metal markets.

Interior Minister Carolina Toha reported a failure in the northern power transmission line and excluded the possibility of a cyber attack. The government declared a state of emergency and enforced a curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. in various regions.

Hydroelectric plants were activated to help restore electricity, but a specific timeline for full restoration has not been announced.

With most of Chile’s population affected, normal routines have been upended, throwing everyday life into disarray. Transport networks have struggled to function, and businesses have operated in limited capacity where backup systems allow. The mining industry, a crucial pillar of the nation’s economy, has been hit particularly hard. Disruptions at Escondida, Codelco, Antofagasta, and Anglo American raise alarms not just locally, but across global supply chains. These mines play a major role in copper production, and any interruption influences availability, pricing, and future output.

Carolina, addressing public concern, pointed to a failure in a northern power transmission line as the cause of the outage. By ruling out a cyber attack, she reassured those worried about external interference. The government’s swift actions—declaring a state of emergency and enforcing a nightly curfew—demonstrate the scale of the disruption. These measures aim to maintain order during a time of uncertainty, ensuring that restoration efforts proceed without additional complications.

Authorities have turned to hydroelectric plants to compensate for the failure, offering temporary relief. However, without a clear estimate on when the grid will be fully reliable again, dependency on alternative energy sources remains a gamble. The absence of a timeline adds to market speculation, particularly for industries that rely on steady energy supplies.

In the coming weeks, a close eye must be kept on the restoration process. Power stability is necessary for mining operations to return to normal output levels. If the outage lingers, production setbacks could escalate, tightening global supply at a time when demand remains high. Those tracking industrial metals should consider the potential for price shifts, particularly if further delays emerge.

Beyond immediate consequences, the longer-term implications of this disruption will depend on how quickly authorities stabilise the grid. We recognise that repeated failures in critical infrastructure can prompt revisions to projected output, influence contract negotiations, and shape investment decisions. In the meantime, prices may respond to shifting expectations, and any deviation from traditional supply patterns will not go unnoticed.