CNMC Vice President Dissents on Electric Grid Compensation

The Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC) is currently witnessing a significant internal dispute concerning the new remuneration model for electric networks. This conflict centers on the methodology approved for the upcoming six-year period, spanning from 2026 to 2031. The tension arises as the new rules are set to enter into force on the upcoming Thursday, January 1.

The core of the disagreement lies in the resolution adopted on December 22. This resolution defines the specific methodology for compensating electric distribution networks across Spain. The approval process was contentious, described as being pushed through 'in extremis' by the majority of the council.

Key figures involved in this dispute include:

• Ángel García Castillejo: Vice President of the plenary.
• Cani Fernández: President of the CNMC.
• The Council Members who formed the majority vote.

Ángel García Castillejo has formally presented a voto discrepante (dissenting vote) regarding the resolution passed on December 22. In his capacity as President of the regulatory supervision chamber, he challenges the validity and implications of the newly established methodology.

Castillejo's dissent is not merely a procedural objection; it includes serious allegations regarding the conduct of the proceedings. He has specifically denounced vetoes attributed to the president, Cani Fernández. These vetos allegedly prevented a full and open debate on the terms of the remuneration model.

The Vice President's stance suggests deep-seated concerns about the transparency and fairness of the decision-making process within the CNMC. His arguments focus on the potential for the new model to trigger legal challenges.

A primary component of Ángel García Castillejo's dissenting vote is the alert regarding the risk of future litigation. He argues that the methodology adopted by the majority exposes the administration to potential lawsuits from affected parties, likely including the electric companies themselves.

The warning highlights the contentious nature of the remuneration figures and the regulatory framework being imposed. By bypassing what Castillejo views as necessary deliberation, the CNMC may be setting the stage for prolonged legal battles. These disputes could center on whether the remuneration rates are fair and sustainable for the operators.

The implications of such litigation could be significant for the stability of the Spanish energy market. Legal uncertainty often deters investment and complicates long-term planning for infrastructure maintenance and expansion.

The dissent from Ángel García Castillejo is not an isolated event within the CNMC. The source material indicates that there were other two dissenting votes presented alongside his.

This indicates that the opposition to the approved methodology extends beyond a single voice. The presence of multiple dissenting votes suggests a fractured council regarding the future of electric network remuneration.

The breakdown of the vote implies:

• A lack of consensus on the technical aspects of the methodology.
• Potential political or ideological divisions within the regulatory body.
• Concerns shared by a minority faction regarding the legal and economic stability of the model.

Despite the internal opposition, the majority view prevailed, allowing the resolution to pass and setting the stage for its implementation on January 1.