Introduction to the Issue
The Spanish Association of Electric Power Companies (Aelec) issued a warning on Tuesday, stating that the majority of Spain’s electricity grid is saturated and requires substantial investments to accommodate new connections. Aelec analyzed a global map published by Spanish grid operators and concluded that over 80% of the nodes in Spain’s electricity grid cannot handle any increase in electricity generation volume, which would lead to instability and reduced efficiency.
Grid Operator and Current Situation
Spain’s electricity grid is primarily operated and coordinated by Redeia. Following a massive blackout affecting Spain and Portugal on April 28, the debate surrounding investment needs in Spain’s electricity grids and the profitability of such investments has intensified. Spanish authorities regulate grid investments and set a cap on the profitability of these investments, ultimately paid for by consumers.
Post-Blackout Changes
Since the blackout, Spain has increased its gas consumption for electricity production while relying more heavily on conventional gas power plants, as reported by the gas network operator Enagás. Conventional electricity generators, such as combined-cycle natural gas plants, provide more stability to the grid’s voltage compared to renewable sources like wind farms and solar panels.
Aelec’s Recommendations
According to Aelec, more investments, increased profitability of these investments, and strict planning are necessary to prevent bottlenecks. Without these conditions, it will be impossible to connect industries, homes, energy storage, or electric mobility, squandering the potential of renewable energies and limiting economic growth and competitiveness that electricity transition can bring to Spain.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main concern raised by Aelec? Aelec warns that more than 80% of Spain’s electricity grid nodes cannot handle increased electricity generation, leading to instability and reduced efficiency.
- Who operates Spain’s electricity grid? The grid is primarily operated and coordinated by Redeia.
- What changes have occurred in Spain’s electricity production since the blackout? Spain has increased its gas consumption for electricity generation and relies more on conventional gas power plants.
- What are Aelec’s recommendations to avoid grid collapse? Aelec recommends more investments, increased profitability of these investments, and strict planning to prevent bottlenecks.
