The European Union is pursuing stronger energy sovereignty and a reduction in its heavy reliance on external supplies. In this effort, the European Commission introduced a continental strategy named RePowerEU, backed by an investment figure of 210 billion. The plan features several initiatives, including the development of new energy connections as a priority for member states and a move to disconnect from Russian hydrocarbons.
Spain faces a notable challenge in terms of interconnection, particularly in electricity, with France. The two neighboring countries together account for a transmission capacity that represents about 2.8 percent of Spain’s electric power, currently around 3,000 MW. Reports from prominent Spanish outlets indicate that both governments have discussed three new interconnections. These projects have suffered long delays and have appeared hesitant to advance, especially on the French side in recent years.
The Iberian Peninsula has long been labeled an energy island due to its relatively weak electricity ties to the broader European grid. As a result, the EU has granted Spain and Portugal certain special, targeted measures to mitigate energy price surges, including caps on gas prices. Even with the planned three interconnections, Spain is still expected to face significant hurdles in shedding the energy island designation and achieving the grid integration targets identified by Brussels.
The Red Eléctrica Group, now operating under the name Redeia, which runs Spain’s electricity system, remains committed to accelerating interconnections as a top priority within the European framework. A spokesperson noted that the urgency now lies with Europe and that the process cannot be stopped. At the same time, experts warn that even with the three interconnections planned for 2030, the EU’s 10 percent power target by 2020 may not be reached. The assessment reflects a cautious view of progress, given the scale of modernization required across the network and the time needed to complete cross-border links.
Data on cross-border connectivity show that connections between Spain and France currently lie well below the 3 percent threshold of the region’s energy needs, with roughly 3,000 MW of capacity. The broader EU objectives set higher targets, including a 10 percent interconnection share by 2020 and 15 percent by 2030. Looking ahead to 2030, plans aim to raise interconnection capacity to about 8,000 MW through routes including Navarra and Aragón. Yet, even with these expansions, observers question whether the guideposts will be met, given the scale of the project and the complexities of regional coordination.
No supply risk
On the other hand, Redeia’s leadership has consistently affirmed that there is no imminent risk to electricity supply in Spain. They emphasize that demand spikes in summer or during periods of stress are manageable within the current framework of the national system. The spokespersons assert confidence in supply reliability and highlight that there is no expectation of shortages in either summer or winter. This stance underlines a policy approach focused on maintaining stable operations while continuing to expand interconnections over time.
Spain’s electricity system currently operates with a substantial installed capacity that far exceeds peak historical demand. The system benefits from a diversified generation mix that includes tangible contributions from multiple technologies, providing resilience against potential supply shocks. This diversification supports a flexible response to evolving conditions and reduces reliance on any single technology. The overarching message is one of steady capability to meet demand while the grid modernization and cross-border integration proceed.
In summary, the European strategy aims to transform the Iberian electricity landscape by strengthening cross-border ties, managing price dynamics through targeted measures, and pursuing a balanced mix of generation resources. While interconnections with France are progressing slowly, the broader EU plan keeps moving forward with a clear emphasis on security, resilience, and long-term integration. Citations from industry authorities underscore both the forward-looking commitments and the practical challenges that accompany large-scale grid upgrades. The conversation continues to focus on how best to align regional energy needs with continental objectives and how to maintain reliable supply during the transition period. — attributed remarks from Redeia leadership and European energy analysts.