Normal electric supply resumed in Bali's tourist hub following a prolonged power outage.
BALI, INDONESIA: The island's electricity supply, a popular tourist destination known for its fantastic resorts, has bounced back after a power outage that lasted for several hours starting on the evening of May 2, 2025. The state electricity firm, Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN), confirmed the restoration of power in the early hours of May 3.
Darmawan Prasodjo, the President Director of PLN, identified the cause of the outage as disruptions to undersea cables connecting Bali's power grid to Java, Indonesia's primary power-generating island. These cables are vital for Bali's energy supply, and their malfunction was responsible for the widespread blackout that hit several regions on the island at 4 p.m. local time.
The Ngurah Rai International Airport experienced some disruptions during this outage but managed to maintain operations with backup generators. Although there were delays in some departures, the airport's contingency planning prevented a complete shutdown.
As Indonesia's most frequented tourist destination, the blackout affected more than just the electricity supply. The absence of functioning traffic signals led to traffic gridlock, and the tourism industry faced operational delays at hotels and resorts reliant on backup power. There were no reported injuries to tourists or significant cancellations. However, these incidents underscored the vulnerabilities in a region crucial to Indonesia's tourism economy.
With power largely restored within hours, the tourists' experience is expected to return to normal soon. However, this event serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining robust and secure energy infrastructure in popular tourist destinations.
Tourists might find hotspots less accessible due to the electricity outbreak in Bali, as many resorts and hotel operations rely on backup power. The power outage, caused by disruptions to undersea cables connecting Bali's grid to Java, highlighted the importance of stable electricity supply for the lifestyle and travel experience in Bali. Consequently, for those planning a trip to this Indonesian island, considering destinations with reliable electricity backup systems could be an essential indication for an uninterrupted vacation.
