The Minister of Ecological Transformation, Teresa Ribera, spoke this Monday about the anticipated impact of new electricity pricing policies and the temporary gas price cap. While the cap moves into effect, the ministry proceeds with caution, operating under the hypothesis that the measure will stabilize prices between 15% and 20% for households and businesses alike.
The focus remains on delivering real savings for consumers, monitoring gas price trends, and ensuring hourly compatibility with other energy sources. The overarching goal is to provide the market with enough flexibility to adjust rates in a way that promotes steady electricity contracting by industry over the medium and long term, according to Ribera’s statements to the press.
During a ceremonial event marking the initial dismantling and transfer of the Cepsa refinery in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the minister emphasized the importance of establishing electricity price references for the sector. These benchmarks are envisioned to support long-term planning and investment by energy-intensive industries and by utility providers seeking predictability in costs.
In related policy discourse, the government reiterated its plan to subsidize 20 cents per liter on certain fuels as a temporary measure if consumers require modulation for three months starting at the end of June. The aim is to offer a bridge of pricing stability while broader energy reforms take hold.
Ribera noted that the economic team is coordinating to balance two priorities: protecting workers, professionals, and industries that are most sensitive to price fluctuations, and delivering agile, immediate relief for all consumers. The objective is to ensure that price adjustments align with current economic conditions without sacrificing reliability of supply.
Looking ahead, the minister indicated that adjustments will be precise and timely, with assessments at the end of June to determine whether the existing framework should keep its current terms or require modulation to respond to evolving market signals. This approach seeks to maintain continuity while offering room for targeted interventions when necessary.
Regarding mobility and regional considerations, the Canary Islands raised concerns about the potential exemption from the European Union’s green tax on air transport. Ribera acknowledged the archipelago’s unique position as an outermost region and stressed the need to consider mobility and user costs in policy design. The goal is to shield residents from disproportionate transportation expenses while maintaining environmental objectives.
In closing remarks, Ribera reaffirmed a collaborative stance, promising coordinated efforts with regional authorities to identify solutions that reflect the islands’ special circumstances. The Canary Islands Government’s recommendations were described as generally reasonable, underscoring a shared commitment to fair and effective energy and transport policies that support both local economies and sustainable growth.