Gonzalo Gómez
General Manager of CEN Solutions"The Spanish nuclear industry is an international referent"
CEN Solutions, a partner company of Foro Nuclear, is dedicated to the design, development and implementation of electrical equipment and integral solutions in the energy, petrochemical, industrial, aeronautical and water sectors. In this interview with their deputy general manager, Gonzalo Gómez, he highlights the capabilities of nuclear professionals and the sector as a whole and stresses the importance of “recognizing the role of the sector as a source of clean and safe energy that helps to combat climate change”.
What are the services offered by CEN Solutions in the nuclear field?
We supply qualified security equipment: motor control centers, consoles, low and medium voltage switchboards... Since the beginning of this industry, we have installed equipment in both Spanish and foreign power plants.
The equipment is designed and certified according to industry standards and requirements, providing all the necessary traceability for its use during the safe shutdown of the reactor.
In addition, we offer services associated with our own or third-party equipment, such as retrofits or maintenance services; we also have in-house engineering and testing capabilities for the dedication process of commercial-grade components for use in safety-related equipment.
“At CEN Solutions we contribute to the safe, sustainable and reliable production of nuclear energy”
What is CEN Solutions' role in the safety and maintenance of Spanish nuclear power plants?
We actively participate in preventive maintenance during refuelling at power plants such as Trillo or Cofrentes; this work is vital to ensure the safety and optimal operation of Spanish nuclear power plants, thus contributing to the production of nuclear energy in a safe, sustainable and reliable manner.
What role does innovation play in the development of electrical solutions for nuclear projects, and how does this translate into the company's ability to stay ahead of the curve?
Staying ahead in such a complex and highly regulated industry as the nuclear sector is a challenge for any company due to the technical, safety and efficiency challenges that constantly arise.
Our company not only participates in the nuclear sector, but also in other areas such as fossil and renewable generation, petrochemical or energy storage systems. This allows us to have a very broad vision of the state of the art and how new and proven solutions can be transferred to nuclear generation, always maintaining the guarantees and quality control that the sector requires.
“The advancement of nuclear science and technology strengthens our commitment to be an active part of innovative and sustainable projects”
Our company has extensive experience in the supply of modular rooms for installation in combined cycles or refineries; we transfer this concept to their implementation in the room that supplies electricity to the cooling towers, achieving a very significant reduction of risks, costs, and implementation time.
What has been CEN Solutions’ experience participating in international nuclear projects such as ITER?
Participating directly in ITER and other international nuclear projects is fundamental for the growth and development of CEN Solutions. It has consolidated us as a leading company in the sector and has also strengthened our reputation nationally and internationally.
"Participating in ITER and other international nuclear projects is fundamental for CEN Solutions' growth and development"
In the case of ITER, we are supplying the nuclear safety control system and manufacturing equipment associated with the tokamak cooling system.
Participating in the advancement of nuclear science and technology strengthens our commitment to continue being an active part of future innovative and sustainable projects in this field.
How is the staff at Cen Solutions prepared to perform electrical work in nuclear power plants?
Our team has a qualified and specific training in nuclear safety, current regulations and protocols of action in this type of facilities, ensuring maximum safety, efficiency and quality in all our work.
We have the necessary approvals and certifications to operate in nuclear facilities, and our personnel receive continuous training for electrical work, including technical, regulatory and safety aspects.
“Our team has qualified and specific training in nuclear safety, current regulations and protocols action”
This allows us to face new challenges with confidence and guarantee excellence in the execution of our services.
What impact do you foresee that the progressive closure of Spanish nuclear power plants could have if implemented?
The progressive closure of Spanish nuclear power plants will have a significant impact on the energy sector and on the demand for services for related companies.
The closure of nuclear power plants could lead to a migration of highly qualified personnel to other sectors or countries where these facilities are still in operation. This could generate a loss of talent and experience in the Spanish energy sector, which in turn could hinder the operation and maintenance of other energy sources.
“The closure of nuclear power plants could lead to a migration of highly qualified personnel to other sectors or countries with nuclear plans”
It is crucial that the solutions adopted to replace nuclear generation be not only stable and reliable, but also environmentally sustainable. It will therefore be essential that these alternatives have a low impact on greenhouse gas emissions in order to contribute to the fight against climate change.
What is your vision for the future of the Spanish nuclear sector?
The outlook for the sector is one of great uncertainty. Although it has already faced several challenges and debates about its viability, it is essential to recognize the potential it has in terms of energy generation.
This requires a balanced approach that considers both safety and sustainability, as well as the exploration of more advanced nuclear technologies that can guarantee a relevant and safe role for nuclear energy in Spain's energy future.
"We guarantee the safety and optimal operation of Spanish nuclear power plants, thus contributing to the production of energy in a safe, sustainable and reliable manner"
What advice would you give to people who are considering starting a career in the nuclear field?
I want to emphasize that this industry provides a very complete training and plays a crucial role in power generation, although I understand that the current situation may generate uncertainty and demotivation in those who are considering a career in the nuclear field.
"With a solid background, practical experience and interest, it is possible to build a successful career in the nuclear field"
Nevertheless, I believe it remains a valuable option for those who show interest and determination. With a solid background, practical experience and an interest in continuous learning, it is possible to build a successful career in this field and contribute to the advancement and safety of the nuclear industry.
What are the main trends and growth areas you see in the nuclear industry in terms of talent demand and job opportunities?
The main trends and growth areas are being driven by large projects under development, such as ITER in the field of nuclear fusion or IFMIF-DONES in the field of nuclear acceleration. This has created a growing demand for talent in a variety of specialized fields that provide the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of this industry and benefit from the numerous career opportunities it offers.
In conclusion, would you like to add any ideas that encompass your proposal regarding the nuclear sector?
I would like to thank and highlight the excellent Spanish professionals that have always been part of the sector, a reference in the industry at an international level.
Finally, I want to recognize the role of the nuclear sector in the energy transition as a clean and safe energy source that can significantly contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, thus helping to combat climate change.
