In the industrial zones of many towns and cities across Spain, the persistent buzzing of high-pressure lamps casts a glow on hundreds of marijuana plants, all thriving thanks to stolen electricity . This is a disturbing reality that unfolds daily, where illegal cannabis cultivation and electrical fraud have created a silent crime network . In response to this threat, Endesa , one of Spain’s leading energy companies, has taken significant steps to combat these growing concerns.
Root Cut: Recently, Endesa, in collaboration with the General Police Station of the National Police , signed a protocol aimed at strengthening the battle against crimes that undermine the electricity supply. This agreement addresses not only massive electricity fraud but also the theft of materials , sabotage , and even cybercrime , as highlighted in their press release.
A More Joint Action: The protocol outlines several key measures, including joint training sessions, information exchange , analytical reports , and technical field advice . It also ensures the active participation of the Judicial Police in the technical operations of Endesa. Moreover, it tackles related crimes such as the manipulation of measuring equipment, the theft of personal data, and consumer fraud perpetrated by cybercriminals.
A Problem That Does Not Stop Growing: According to the European Drug Report 2025 , Spain accounts for approximately 73% of all marijuana seizures within the European Union. A significant number of these seizures are linked to indoor plantations that have been fraudulently connected to the electricity grid. Over the past year, Endesa’s subsidiary, e-distribution , disconnected 2,214 illegal hooks associated with these crops, which consumed energy equivalent to that used by 70,000 households.
This alarming trend is not confined to one region; data from various areas of the country reflects a similar pattern. In Granada , for instance, a report from ABC Granada reveals that between January and April, Endesa detected 246 illegal plantations , averaging two per day. In Córdoba , the situation is equally concerning, with 19 files opened for similar offenses during the same period, translating to about one per week, as reported by Córdoba Diario. In both instances, the excessive energy consumption—up to that required for 80 homes per plantation —overloads the power grid, leading to substantial collateral damage.
The Highest Invoice: The repercussions of these illegal connections extend beyond financial implications. These unauthorized connections cause constant overloads , posing serious safety risks. Last summer, 24 fires were recorded within the distribution network in Andalusia, five of which occurred in Granada and four in Córdoba, directly linked to illegal marijuana plantations, according to Córdoba Diario.
Technology at the Service of Prevention: In light of these challenges, Endesa aims to adopt a preventative approach . For several years, the company has employed predictive models using artificial intelligence and big data to identify suspicious activity patterns. Recently, Endesa has also begun implementing smart sensors across its networks, capable of predicting overloads before they can cause issues.
A Battle Without Rest: The issue of electric fraud associated with illegal marijuana cultivation presents challenges not only to the energy sector but also to the social fabric in various communities. While effective responses are being initiated, the complexity of the technical, police, and societal challenges means that this battle is far from over.
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Xataka reports that the prevalence of illegal marijuana crops in Spain creates significant disruptions for one of the country’s major industries: electricity.