The Spanish Ministry for Ecological Transition has announced a crackdown on 29 'ghost' electricity suppliers that have failed to purchase energy from the production market within the required timeframe. This decision follows years of these companies remaining on the Competition Authority's list of 550 registered companies. The initiative aims to enhance market integrity and protect consumers from fraudulent or non-operational suppliers.

These 29 companies, primarily small limited liability corporations, have included some from more well-known groups such as Naturgy Renovables and Grupo Villar Mir. By targeting these inactive suppliers, the government intends to cleanse the energy sector of companies that do not contribute to market activity or competition. The announcement, published in the Official State Gazette, marks a significant step in regulating the energy market in Spain.

The closure of these ghost companies is not only a move towards greater market transparency but also reflects the government's broader commitment to an ecological transition in energy production. The decision may have implications for energy prices and supplier diversity as the government works to ensure that only viable and active companies operate in the sector, protecting both consumers and legitimate energy suppliers alike.