Spain's National Commission on Markets and Competition (CNMC) approved on Tuesday a proposal setting remuneration methodology for natural gas distribution networks for 2027-2032, keeping base levels steady with a 2% improvement. It rejects industry calls for 2020 cut compensation and adds incentives for biomethane injection and digitalization. The plan enters public consultation today.
The CNMC board approved on Tuesday a draft circular regulating remuneration for natural gas distribution networks, set to take effect October 1, 2027. In a press note, the CNMC stated it aligns with the Ministry for Ecological Transition's November 2025 guidelines, ensuring «sufficient remuneration to cover costs of an efficient, well-managed company» while advancing decarbonization and competitive tolls. Affected firms are Nedgia (Naturgy group), Redexis, Nortegás, Madrileña Red de Gas, and Gas Extremadura. Base remuneration edges up from an average 1.165 million euros yearly (2020-2026) to 1.191 million over the next six years, despite sector demands to offset the 2020 cut of about 239 million euros annually and adjust for inflation (IPC 21%, IPRI 41%) and rising debt costs from 3% to 4%. Sector sources warn the process «may not be peaceful». The proposal adds incentives for biomethane injection, digitalization, cybersecurity, methane emission cuts, and market development, capping parametric variations at ±10%. It removes incentives for gasifying new municipalities and transitory remuneration. No automatic parameter updates apply during the period. The text followed public consultations starting December 2024, incorporating input from firms, associations, renewable gas promoters, marketers, consumer groups, and environmental organizations.
