The gas distribution network, one of the most extensive and least visible infrastructures in the Spanish energy system, faces a transformation scenario marked by the need to invest in cybersecurity and the integration of renewable gases. The sector considers it necessary to update the current regulatory framework to guarantee the maintenance of an infrastructure that serves more than 20 million people in Spain. And, to this end, they request that the investments necessary for a network in optimal conditions be adequately recognized, especially in areas such as maintenance, digitalization and supply guarantee.
Because, although it goes unnoticed by the majority, the distribution network constitutes the most critical section of the gas system due to its enormous territorial capillarity. In fact, the annual demand for gas far exceeds that for electricity and, according to the sector, its distribution continues to be much more competitive in terms of costs: transporting one MWh of energy in the form of gas is approximately six times cheaper than doing so using electricity. Its relevance, however, does not usually occupy the center of the energy debate, which is more focused on transportation and storage infrastructure.
In this regard, the companies also remember that the current regulatory framework was designed in a very different context from the current one. When it was approved, there were fewer geopolitical tensions, lower cybersecurity risks, and fewer demands related to digitalization or the incorporation of renewable gases. For this reason, they consider that it is not possible to continue regulating a strategic infrastructure with parameters designed for another reality.
One of the aspects that most concerns the industry is preventive maintenance of the network. The sector warns that reducing resources allocated to this can generate long-term risks and does not mean saving, but transferring problems and costs to the future.
They also defend the need to continue rewarding assets since, although many infrastructures have already recovered their initial investment, they continue to provide an essential service and require constant maintenance and modernization expenses. The growing digitalization of the network has multiplied exposure to digital threats. According to industry data, the physical-digital layer of the network suffered around 15,000 cyber attacks in 2025, which requires continuous reinforcement of investments in protection and technological systems.
On the other hand, the sector considers that the distribution network can play a key role in the decarbonization of the economy through the transport of renewable gases such as biomethane. Spain, remember, is still lagging behind other European countries in its development.
In conclusion, the industry calls for regulation that recognizes the value of essential infrastructure that, precisely because it operates reliably and silently, often goes unnoticed. In his opinion, maintaining a secure, modern network prepared for future energy challenges requires investments and adequate remuneration.