Red Eléctrica, Redeia’s subsidiary responsible for the transmission and operation of the electrical system in Spain, has completed the construction of the Fuente de Cantos, Maguilla (formerly known as Llerena), and La Serena substations, all operating at 400 kV. This infrastructure is essential for powering new high-speed railway corridors and advancing the energy transition by integrating the region’s abundant renewable resources.

Specifically, the La Serena substation will primarily provide power to the future railway corridors planned for Extremadura. These corridors, long a regional priority, will connect Mérida with Puertollano and Castilla-La Mancha.

Meanwhile, the Fuente de Cantos and Maguilla substations will mainly serve to integrate new renewable energy generation in the area, strengthening the energy corridor between Andalusia, Extremadura, and Madrid. Extremadura plays a pivotal role in Spain’s energy transition, as its vast renewable potential is a key driver for achieving the objectives set in the National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP). 

Red Eléctrica has invested €30 million in these three substations, which are part of the current Electricity Planning framework. This initiative, approved by the Spanish Government, aims to enhance supply quality, support new railway corridors, and drive the region’s energy transition by integrating electricity from renewable facilities.

In recent weeks, the Industry and Energy Department of the Government Delegation in Extremadura has granted Red Eléctrica the operating authorisations for these substations, paving the way for their imminent commissioning. 

Red Eléctrica strengthens the transmission grid in Extremadura

Additional substations will soon be added to the network, including the Don Álvaro substation (which will also support the Mérida-Puertollano railway corridor) and the Fuentes del Maestre substation (primarily intended for integrating renewable energy). Furthermore, the Zarzón substation received the necessary approvals for construction last June and is currently under development. It is expected to be commissioned later in 2025. 

Finally, the public consultation process has begun for two new 400 kV substations – Guadiana and Río Caya – along with the transmission lines that will connect San Serván, Guadiana, and Río Caya. Thanks to this infrastructure, it will be possible to connect and supply large industrial customers in the Río Caya area so that they can carry out their production activities. These strategic initiatives will help consolidate the Southwest Iberian Logistics Platform in Badajoz, boost the region’s industrial sector, and drive economic growth and job creation.

The investment for the construction of new electrical infrastructure included in the 2021-2026 Electricity Planning framework in Extremadura exceeds €200 million. This initiative positions the region for industrial growth, supports its energy transition, and promotes territorial cohesion and equal opportunities.