Plugged In: the energy news podcast Spanish cable, French resistance
11 snips
May 30, 2025 
Emeric de Vigan, Managing Director at 42 Advisors, and Ana Barillas, Managing Director of Iberia and LATAM at Aurora Energy Research, dive into the tension between Spain and France over energy interconnections. They dissect the recent blackout in the Iberian Peninsula and the challenges of local resistance and high costs. The conversation also touches on Spain's renewable energy potential and France's reliance on nuclear power, exploring the political dynamics that complicate energy collaboration between the two nations.
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Why Spain Wants More Interconnections
- Spain pushes for more interconnections to increase supply security and integrate its electricity market with Europe.
- More interconnections help avoid trapping cheaper renewable energy in Iberia, benefiting both the region and Europe.
Interconnection's Role in Blackout Recovery
- More interconnections wouldn't have prevented April's blackout in Spain due to safety disconnection with France.
- However, increased transmission capacity would enable faster restoration of electricity supply.
France Wants Fair Cost-Sharing
- France supports interconnections but demands fair cost-sharing due to high transmission burdens.
- France seeks European financial support to offset its central position and maintenance costs.