The CNMC has approved a report analyzing the technical barriers in the Spanish railway system, such as track gauge, electrification, and signaling systems, which hinder service provision and limit the competitiveness of rail transport, especially for freight.

Historically, these technical differences have fragmented the European railway system. To address this, community institutions are promoting common standards to ensure interoperability and facilitate cross-border transport, particularly through the TEN-T corridors.

Spain's railway network spans 15,673 km, with 3,104 km dedicated to high-speed international gauge and over 11,000 km to Iberian gauge. Currently, 67% of the network is electrified, and approximately 3,000 km are equipped with the ERTMS signaling system, one of the most extensive deployments in the EU.

The expansion of the high-speed network has created internal barriers for national traffic. While passenger trains can operate on both gauges, freight transport requires cargo transfer between trains, reducing efficiency and competitiveness against other transport modes.

The CNMC emphasizes that any decision regarding the replacement of the Iberian gauge must be carefully considered in terms of its impact on rail transport competitiveness.

In recent years, supported by the Mercancías 30 Plan, railway companies have acquired more efficient electric locomotives. However, the variety of voltage levels in the railway network necessitates multi-voltage locomotives or continued use of diesel traction, even on electrified lines.

The ERTMS signaling system enhances traffic capacity and facilitates cross-border transport. The CNMC recommends coordinating its implementation with France and Portugal to maximize benefits. Trains operating on Iberian gauge cannot travel in other countries, limiting interoperability.

Furthermore, the deployment of ERTMS should focus on standard gauge lines and those transitioning to this gauge, as well as Iberian gauge lines where necessary to increase capacity. The report also calls for compatibility tests before trains can operate, urging compliance with the three-month authorization timeline to reduce costs and provide certainty for railway companies.