UPDATE: The lights are back on in the LVCC’s Central Hall after a power outage of around two hours. The problem has been tracked back to condensation in a power transformer caused by yesterday’s constant rain.
However, it’s currently unclear whether exhibitors will be able to get their stands re-opened today. There’s still no official word on the cause of the technical difficulties in Las Vegas.
Lights are back on at #CES2018 LVCC Main Hall. It'll be interesting to find out the cause but also whether any equipment was damaged by the outage. It'll be tricky to get everyone's demos up and running again today.
— Evan Kypreos (@EvanKypreos) January 10, 2018
Original story continues below…
CES 2018, the world’s largest electronics show, has been plunged into darkness following a power cut at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Technical problems in the Central Hall have left the likes of LG, Samsung, Sony and Panasonic unable to showcase their latest gear to tech-loving attendees.
The arena has been without power since around 11am local time (7pm GMT) and organisers aren’t allowing attendees, including press, analysis and exhibitors, into the Central Hall.
Related: CES 2018
#CES2018 power cut is a big deal. Some reports of an explosion https://t.co/dbTYLaMml5 pic.twitter.com/SeieNqDYKI
— Evan Kypreos (@EvanKypreos) January 10, 2018
TrustedReviews Editor Evan Kypreos, who’s in attendance at CES, said: “Some stands still had light, thanks to generators, but they’ve now run out of power.
“Panasonic told its staff on the stand to leave, and no one is allowed back on to the show floor. I’m still in, but it’s pitch black in places.”
Evan also says some manufacturers are expressing concern over the security of their products, many of which are prototypes, concepts, or new releases that won’t be officially available until later this year.
He added: “Samsung kicked everyone off its stand and there are stand owners concerned about their products on show. It would be very easy to pick up sample products without anyone noticing.”
Sony has also closed its stand.
The sense of confusion has also been heightened by unconfirmed reports of a noise ‘like an explosion’ at the back of the LVCC, with witnesses also reporting fire engines on the scene.
We’re still awaiting official word on this right now, but one hopes that any incidents can be attributed to the electrical problems.
There is an isolated power outage at the Las Vegas Convention Center. We are working hard to resolve this and appreciate your patience.
— CES (@CES) January 10, 2018
The problems could be a result of severe rainfall in the city, which saw 1.33 inches arrive in less than six hours – a record for January.
On Tuesday, some of the booths flooded as a result of the downpour.
The North and South Halls remain open, with show-runners advising attendees to visit exhibitors while it works on solving the “isolated” problem.
While we work through this isolated power outage feel free to visit our exhibitors in South Hall and North Hall. Also get outside on this beautiful Las Vegas day and check out Central and South Plaza. #CES2018
— CES (@CES) January 10, 2018
Have you been plunged into darkness at CES 2018? Share your pictures and video with us @TrustedReviews on Twitter.