The Community of Madrid is modernising the electrification system of Metro Line 6 to prepare for the future introduction of driverless trains. The project forms part of the comprehensive automation plan for the city’s circular line, which is set to become the first fully automated route in the Madrid Metro network by 2027.
During the initial phase of works, carried out between June and September on the western section of the line, the voltage of the overhead catenary was increased from 600 to 1,500 volts. To achieve this, seven electrical substations — Moncloa, Puerta del Ángel, Lucero, Carpetana, Plaza Elíptica, Usera, and Arganzuela — were completely overhauled.
The works involved disconnecting and dismantling outdated components, installing new protection and control systems, and fitting transformers and rectifiers adapted to the higher voltage required for automated operations.
According to preliminary studies, this upgrade will deliver substantial energy savings, reducing electricity consumption on Line 6 by up to 30% and across the entire Metro network by 3.6%.
The operation, one of the most technically complex in Madrid Metro’s history, was completed without a full service suspension. Careful planning ensured a stable power supply throughout, allowing trains to continue running safely during the works. Similar interventions will be undertaken at other substations as the project advances along the eastern arc of the line.
The initiative is co-financed at 40% through the Community of Madrid’s 2021–2027 European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) programme.
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