The Future of Infrastructure in Spain: Towards a Pay-Per-Use Model?

The debate on road management in the country intensifies in the Infrastructure Forum.

The main infrastructure concession companies in Spain have agreed that adopting a pay-per-use model, similar to that applied in much of Europe, is essential to raising the quality of the country's roads and highways. This approach, which has been the subject of controversy, could be the key to improving the current situation of Spanish infrastructure, characterized by its inefficiency and territorial inequality.

During the recent Infrastructure Forum organized by The Economistthe general director of Highways of the Abertis Group, Daniel Vilanova, expressed his concern regarding the current Spanish model, describing it as “unequal and with territorial grievances.” This statement reflects the tensions accumulated in a sector that has seen many highway and highway concessions return to the hands of the State in recent years, generating a climate of uncertainty and distrust in the field of private investment.

The list of grievances is extensive, according to companies in the sector, which warn about the negative consequences that the elimination of tolls has had on some roads. Vilanova stressed that “raising the barriers” has caused a significant increase in traffic, which has led to road safety and congestion problems. In addition, he warned that tax collection has been seriously affected, estimating a loss of 500 million euros annually that used to enter the State thanks to the concessions.

For his part, Domingo Jiménez, director for Europe at Sacyr Concesiones, argued that Spain is in an isolated position within the European Union, where “a truck driver circulates for free only in Spain”, something that, in his opinion, goes against common sense. This statement highlights the need to rethink the current model, which many consider “inefficient and asymmetric.” Jiménez emphasized that it is practically impossible for the State alone to be able to bear the burden of maintaining quality infrastructure without the collaboration of the private sector.

The idea of a “demonization of the private sector” was also mentioned by Joaquín Gago de Pedro, director of the transport infrastructure operator Aleatica in Europe. He stated that this perception is not observed in other countries, and warned that Spain is losing competitiveness compared to its European competitors. “We are going to be left behind if we do not act soon,” said Gago de Pedro, reflecting a concern shared by many in the sector.

Ovidio Turrado, partner responsible for Infrastructure at KPMG in Spain, highlighted that there is an interest in investing in the country, as long as “the appropriate mechanisms” are implemented. According to him, this could be the solution to the infrastructure deficit that Spain faces in the medium and long term. Private investment could revitalize the sector, but it requires a clear and stable regulatory framework that guarantees the profitability of the projects.

Raúl Barrueco, senior director at infrastructure investor CVC DIF, underlined a crucial point: citizens must be aware that infrastructure is expensive and must be willing to accept it. This acceptance is essential to move towards a model that guarantees the quality and sustainability of infrastructure in Spain.

The managers present at the forum insisted on the need to establish regulatory stability in the sector, as well as greater legal security. The importance of adjusting certain parameters in the deindexation law to promote the viability of infrastructure investments was also mentioned. Without these adjustments, there is a risk of perpetuating a model that has proven to be unsustainable over time.

The discussions around infrastructure in Spain not only reflect a concern for the quality of the roads, but also reveal a broader vision about the need to modernize and adapt the system to current demands. With a growing number of vehicles and a constant increase in transport demand, it is vital that the country finds viable and efficient solutions that allow companies and the State to work together for a better and more competitive future.

FAQ

What is the pay-as-you-go model? It is a system in which users pay for the use of infrastructure, thus contributing to its maintenance and improvement.
What are the benefits of this model? It allows for more sustainable and equitable financing, in addition to encouraging adequate maintenance of roads and highways.
Who is in favor of the change of model in Spain? Concessionaire companies, infrastructure experts and some government sectors are advocating for this transition.
What problems has the elimination of tolls caused? Congestion and road safety problems have increased, as well as a notable reduction in the State's tax collection.
How does the lack of investment in infrastructure affect citizens? It can result in poor roads, increased travel time and road safety risks.
What do experts think about Spain's competitiveness? Many agree that Spain is losing competitiveness compared to other European countries due to the lack of an efficient infrastructure system.
What is needed to attract infrastructure investments? A clear and stable regulatory framework is required, as well as profitability guarantees for investors.
How can the perception of the private sector be improved? Fostering an open and transparent dialogue about the benefits of public-private collaboration.
What measures are proposed to guarantee the quality of infrastructure? Implement control and evaluation mechanisms, as well as encourage the participation of the private sector.
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