nucleareurope welcomes the extension of Almaraz’s operation
Nucleareurope, the European nuclear industry association, has welcomed the Spanish government’s decision to extend the operation of the Almaraz nuclear power plant until June 2030, describing it as an important step for strengthening security of electricity supply in both Spain and the European Union.
According to the association, Almaraz accounts for around 7% of Spain’s electricity production and plays a significant role in supporting the stability of the country’s power system. Emmanuel Brutin, Director General of nucleareurope, said that the decision is in line with the European Commission’s recommendation to extend the lifetime of existing nuclear power plants wherever possible in order to ensure security of supply and reduce dependence on fossil fuel imports.
The decision is in line with the European Commission's recommendation to extend the lifetime of existing nuclear power plants
The decision, published on 14 August in Spain’s Official State Gazette (BOE), will allow Almaraz to continue providing reliable, low-carbon electricity to Spain and Europe at a time when the European Union is seeking to strengthen its energy security, reduce exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets and accelerate the electrification of its economy.
The European Union is seeking to strenghten its energy security, reduce dependance on fossil fuels and acclerate the electrification of its economy
Nucleareurope also underlined that the measure is consistent with the European Commission’s AccelerateEU Communication, which encourages Member States to avoid the premature retirement of generation assets that can continue to provide reliable, low-cost, low-emission electricity. The association added that the extension of Almaraz’s operation could pave the way for a broader reconsideration of the role of nuclear energy in Spain beyond 2035.
Almaraz's continuity could pave the way for nuclear energy in Spain beyond 2035
