Spain's electricity sector faces rising deficits and operating costs

The Spanish electricity sector has recorded a transient deficit of 840.92 million euros through July 2026, according to the National Commission on Markets and Competition (CNMC). This imbalance stems from temporary mismatches between projected revenues and costs, resulting in a coverage coefficient of 89.42%. Total electricity revenues reached 8,163.87 million euros against costs of 9,004.78 million euros.

Separately, the Observatory of the Cost of Operating Services reports that the cost of electricity operating services has accumulated 4,100 million euros through September, representing a 40% increase compared to 2025. Industry groups, including Aelec and CEOE, note that the average extra cost has reached 21.95 euros per megawatt-hour since the start of 2026.

These rising costs are attributed to reinforced operations implemented following a blackout on April 28, 2025. Industry representatives warn that these expenses are being passed directly to consumers, impacting both households and businesses and potentially reducing economic competitiveness.