Indian Refiners Lift LPG Output Nearly 20% as Hormuz Blockage Chokes Imports

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Financial Intelligence • Markets • World News • Independent Analysis
Published: 2026-09-24 • Permanent link

Fears of a prolonged economic downturn have intensified in the wake of a recent surge in power outages in Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rico Public Utilities Authority reported that the duration of these non-major event outages increased by 19% in 2025, with customers experiencing an average of 36 hours of disruptions. This alarming trend has sent shockwaves through the global economy, particularly in the insurance sector, where investors are bracing for a potential surge in claims.

Rising power outages have significant implications for investors, particularly those in the utilities and insurance sectors. As the frequency and duration of outages increase, companies are facing growing costs and reputational risks. According to a recent study, the average cost of a prolonged power outage can range from $10,000 to $50,000 per household. This could lead to increased premiums for insurance policies and higher costs for utilities, ultimately affecting consumers.

Industry experts point to the ongoing global supply chain disruptions and the lingering effects of the pandemic as contributing factors to the surge in power outages. The ongoing Hormuz blockade, which has reduced oil imports to the US, has also exacerbated the issue. In contrast, countries like Japan and South Korea, which have diversified their energy sources, have seen a decrease in power outages. This highlights the need for countries to diversify their energy sources and invest in grid resilience.

As the situation continues to unfold, investors will be watching closely for any signs of a coordinated response from governments and utilities. The potential for a prolonged economic downturn is still uncertain, but one thing is clear: the world is witnessing a seismic shift in the way we think about energy security and grid resilience. With the festive season just around the corner, the stakes are high, and the world will be holding its breath as it waits to see how this crisis will play out.