The construction of a 47-metre electricity tower in La Moraleja has sparked outrage among residents, who fear for their health and the value of their properties. Over 3,000 citizens are affected by this situation.
A 47-metre electricity tower is rising in the heart of La Moraleja, generating concern among neighbours living less than 40 metres from the structure. For weeks, dozens of workers have been installing it without prior notice to residents, who now face a dilemma regarding their health and the economic future of the neighbourhood. “We believe that this type of radiation could lead to some kind of cancer,” says Víctor, a concerned resident representing around 3,000 citizens worried about the health and economic implications this construction could bring. Despite a study conducted by Red Eléctrica, which deemed the distance from homes safe, residents argue that the long-term impact of the electrical installation on their quality of life has not been adequately assessed.
La Carrascosa is one of the most exclusive and expensive neighbourhoods in northern Madrid, where the average price per square metre exceeds 3,900 euros monthly for rentals and ranges between 1.6 and 2.2 million for purchases. Neighbours fear that the close presence of the tower will negatively affect the area's property values. “No one wants to buy a house next to a tower like that,” Víctor points out.
Despite the widespread discontent, the situation is complicated by the administrative division between Madrid and Alcobendas. The tower is located on land belonging to the Madrid municipality but borders Alcobendas, which has created confusion about who should take action regarding it. However, after several protests and community mobilisations, the Alcobendas City Council called an extraordinary Plenary session where a commitment was approved to move the residential electrical line further away.
The Mayor's office has expressed its opposition to the construction near homes: “Our position is unequivocally against and unfavourable.” They have also stated their intention to explore options such as burying or relocating the electrical line to less populated areas.
Grateful for the swift municipal response, residents have sent registered letters requesting confirmations about compliance with regulations to both the City Council and Red Eléctrica. The latter has assured that it complies with current regulations but has also agreed to conduct a study on the technical feasibility of burying the line.
Preliminary results are expected by mid-September; if it is determined that burying the line is feasible within the Madrid municipality, necessary negotiations will begin with the relevant authorities to implement this solution.
Although the City Council maintains that the infrastructure was built according to the approved project without prior objections from the Alcobendas Council or other involved bodies, residents continue to demand clear answers on how they will ensure their health and economic safety in light of this new situation.
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