The Spanish competition authority, CNMC, has identified a growing issue of illegal connections and meter tampering in the gas sector, which not only increases costs for companies and consumers but also poses risks to public safety.

To combat this, CNMC has proposed a new procedure aimed at helping network operators (distributors) detect fraud more efficiently and bill the associated amounts. This proposal is designed to protect consumer rights while ensuring that the process is less burdensome for regional authorities handling fraud cases.

The document outlines criteria for estimating the amount of gas fraudulently obtained and its economic valuation. A notable feature of the proposal is the option to reduce penalties for offenders who acknowledge their debt and opt for early payment.

This initiative is expected to facilitate quicker resolution of fraud cases and improve the overall integrity of the gas supply system.