Red Eléctrica, the Redeia subsidiary responsible for the operation and transmission of the electricity system in Spain, has completed the repowering of the 400 kV line that runs between the Barcina substation in Burgos and the Santa Engracia del Jubera substation in La Rioja. This will enable an increase in electricity capacity in both provinces and reinforce transmission flows in the Ebro Valley. 

Representing an investment of €1.6 million, the works have enabled an increase in the line's capacity across 58 of its 220 pylons (electricity towers). To achieve this, various techniques were used without the need, in most cases (40 of the modified pylons), to increase their height. 

In parallel, Red Eléctrica has installed bird flight diverters in accordance with current regulations, a measure that contributes to the protection of birdlife and is aligned with the goals of the Sustainability Plan of Redeia, Red Eléctrica’s parent company. 

Measuring 94.7 kilometres in length, the 400 kV Barcina–Santa Engracia line runs between the provinces of Burgos and La Rioja, passing through 8 municipalities in the former and 24 in the latter.

Its repowering forms part of the current Electricity Transmission Grid Plan, which was approved by the Council of Ministers and is binding for Red Eléctrica.