Spain: European regulator slams Spanish monopolies in electric and gas networks

The European Union’s Competition Commission has released files revealing their open concerns over the monopoly on international light and gas transmissions held by REE and Enagás, respectively. The challenge to these companies’ positions would also extend to their role as sole transmitters for the High-Voltage Transmission Network (TSO) and main gas lines.

After a routine investigation that started on July 2013, the EC has concluded that Spain violated up to a dozen articles, involving both directives in their Electric and Hydrocarbon laws. The EC has now urged Spain’s government to present their own commentaries over the next two months. Should the commission reject these observations, they may issue an unilateral statement.

While the commission’s document refers only to international connections, the changes it demands are likely to spread across the system, said industry sources. The EC directives’ demand for all such connections to be handled by a certified TSO would mean that any new company now granted said status would also be able to enter the Spanish transmissions sector.

Source: Cinco Días

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