Overview
- The CNMC published a report on Wednesday asking Adif to lower access charges for variable‑gauge services in 2026 and 2027 because those fees exceed directly attributable infrastructure costs.
- The regulator also asked Adif to reduce charges for services on the Madrid–Barcelona corridor while consensual speed limits from February remain in place, noting the limits add about 25 minutes to journeys and have cut passenger demand.
- Adif had proposed freezing tariffs for 2026–2027 and raising some charges in 2028 by €1.2 per train‑km on Madrid–Barcelona and Madrid–Galicia and €0.3 on Madrid–Levante, but the CNMC wants specific cuts before approving the plan.
- The CNMC found the Madrid–Málaga surcharge fails its ‘efficient average operator’ test and must be cut, while the Madrid–Seville surcharge passes that efficiency test.
- The regulator urged Adif to publish updated five‑year activity plans and to revise cost‑allocation methods so potential competitors such as Iryo and Ouigo face fairer charges on mixed‑gauge routes now served mainly by Renfe.