Madrid authorities debate energy rules and autonomous powers
Enrique Ossorio, the vice-president of the Community of Madrid, spoke on Wednesday about the ongoing energy measures and how far the regional government can take action. He noted that some elements of the royal decree approved by the Cabinet earlier in the week exceed the competencies of the Autonomous Administration and therefore may not be enforceable by Madrid.
The comments emerged during an interview with Telecinco, reported by Europa Press, as he was asked to comment on President Isabel Díaz Ayuso’s assertion that Madrid would not be stepping back from its current stance.
Ossorio emphasized that the decree runs to 84 pages and will require careful review by the regional authorities. He also stressed that the measures within Madrid’s exclusive remit would be the ones the Community could implement, while other provisions would not bind the region.
Ayuso arms the discussion over state powers in a potential political legal battle
The vice-president criticized the central government for moving ahead with these measures without prior consensus. He argued that while Madrid is a region with its own competencies, decisions should involve collaboration and shared strategies. He also described Madrid’s approach to energy policy as distinct, noting that keeping shop lighting on past 10 pm is not comparable to actions taken by smaller municipalities.
Regarding the impact of the proposed measures on commerce, tourism and the hospitality sector, Ossorio expressed cautious optimism. He said the government had not completed a thorough sectoral impact analysis, and while he doubted the measures would be beneficial in the short term, he indicated that a full assessment would be necessary to understand the consequences for local businesses and visitors.
Madrid urges tax relief as part of a broader energy strategy
In discussing the region’s response to the energy crisis, Ossorio referenced a letter the Community sent to Teresa Ribera, the Minister for Ecological Transition and Demographics, about a month earlier. He asserted that the letter had not received a response and that a stronger push from Madrid was warranted. According to the vice-president, the Community proposed several measures: targeted tax reductions, strategic use of European Union funds, and a rethink of how energy production is approached across the continent. The aim, he said, is to satisfy EU commitments while safeguarding the economic vitality of Madrid and similar regions.
Officials argued that tax relief and smarter use of EU resources could help households and small businesses cope with energy costs while supporting a resilient energy system. The regional leadership stressed that any policy moves would align with existing EU frameworks and financial instruments, and that cooperation with the national government would continue to be essential as the energy landscape evolves. The emphasis remained on practical steps that could help alleviate pressure without compromising regional autonomy.
Observers note that Madrid has consistently pursued a cautious yet proactive stance on energy policy. The regional administration argues that local solutions, informed by real-time market data and the needs of local businesses, can complement national directives. The dialogue between Madrid and Madrid’s national partners is expected to persist as the government weighs next steps and potential amendments to the decree. The overarching goal, according to officials, is to protect economic activity while promoting sustainable energy choices across the community.