Spain gas station network sees first historical decline

The number of active gas stations in Spain decreased for the first time in the historical series during the first half of 2026. According to the National Commission on Markets and Competition (CNMC), there were 12,562 points of sale as of June 30, representing a drop of 195 stations compared to the end of 2025.

The CNMC attributed this decline primarily to a census update following reinforced supervision and new regulations. The agency identified facilities that were listed as active but lacked real activity, as well as stations failing to meet information obligations. This adjustment was most concentrated among independent stations, which lost 147 points of sale.

In contrast, major operators saw more moderate changes, with Moeve-Ballenoil adding 30 installations and Galp Energía España adding one. The reduction in the network coincided with a decrease in fuel demand; in June, demand for 95 gasoline and diesel A was 4.3% lower than in June 2025.