Red Eléctrica, the subsidiary of Redeia responsible for the transmission and operation of the electricity system in Spain, is starting work next week on the project to repower the double-circuit 400 kV Moraleja–Villaviciosa and Morata–Villaviciosa line, which also includes the modification of the route in the section running through the towns of Arroyomolinos, Móstoles and Moraleja de Enmedio (Community of Madrid).

The company is adapting its infrastructure to new urban developments in response to a long-standing demand from the local community, with a solution negotiated with local councils that is viable in both technical and environmental terms and fully supported by the current electricity planning cycle.

The project is a highly complex one, and Red Eléctrica has been working continuously for several years to plan a route for the power lines in Arroyomolinos and its region that is technically, environmentally and socially viable. The process of planning and negotiating with the local councils has resulted in a solution adapted to the new situation of the town.

The modification of the route involves the dismantling of the current line between transmission towers 115 and 135, once the new section is operational, in the municipal areas of Arroyomolinos, Móstoles and Moraleja de Enmedio. Sustainability and full environmental sensitivity were key factors in designing the new route, to avoid any impact on the Natura 2000 Network and the Guadarrama Regional Park, working with other developers to ensure the various infrastructure is compatible.

This modification of the route means that Red Eléctrica power lines will no longer run through the built-up areas which have developed as the towns expanded after the installation of the original line, and offers a decisive response to long-standing local demands in Arroyomolinos by providing a solution that has been painstakingly worked out with the affected local authorities.

The inclusion of this initiative in the current electricity planning cycle, approved by the Council of Ministers, means that Red Eléctrica can invest €5.5 million in the project. Red Eléctrica will actively coordinate with local councils during the project to settle any construction issues and to keep any disturbance or risk arising from the works to a minimum.