WePlanet calls to keep Almaraz open and review nuclear closure in Spain
Environmental organization WePlanet has submitted a manifesto to the Spanish Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge, calling for the continued operation of the Almaraz nuclear power plant, the suspension of Spain’s nuclear closure schedule, and an energy policy based on scientific, technical and security-of-supply criteria.
Coinciding with World Environment Day, WePlanet argues that shutting down operational and safe nuclear power plants would not accelerate the energy transition, but could instead increase dependence on natural gas, raise CO₂ emissions, and drive up electricity costs for households and industry.
The environmental organization's manifesto calls for the continued operation of the Almaraz nuclear power plant.
In the document, WePlanet argues that nuclear energy remains one of the few technologies capable of simultaneously providing continuous power generation, low emissions, economic competitiveness and energy security. It also states that international experience shows that countries combining nuclear energy with renewables achieve more stable electricity systems and lower emissions.
According to WePlanet, nuclear energy provides continuous power generation, low emissions, economic competitiveness and energy security.
Nuclear and renewables: complementary technologies
One of the manifesto’s main arguments is that nuclear energy does not hinder the deployment of renewable energy sources. According to the organization, the key challenges facing the energy transition are related to electricity grids, energy storage, interconnections and demand-side flexibility, rather than the existence of nuclear generation.
WePlanet also highlights that nuclear power plants provide essential services for system stability, including frequency regulation, voltage stability, and firm, predictable generation, thereby facilitating the integration of greater renewable energy capacity.
Security of supply and system stability
The manifesto stresses that energy security depends not only on annual electricity production, but also on the ability to respond to periods of high demand or low renewable generation. In this context, it argues that nuclear energy provides continuous 24-hour electricity generation and reduces exposure to volatility in international gas markets.
The organization also notes that extending the operation of existing nuclear power plants is often more economically efficient than replacing the stability services they provide through new backup infrastructure.
WePlanet considers the long-term operation of nuclear power plants to be a cost-effective solution and a common practice worldwide
Life extension and nuclear waste management
WePlanet notes that extending the operating life of nuclear facilities is a common international practice when accompanied by modernization programmes, periodic inspections and regulatory oversight. It also highlights that Spain’s nuclear power plants operate in accordance with the safety standards established by the European Union and international nuclear organizations.
With regard to radioactive waste, the manifesto states that its management is regulated and financed through dedicated funds. It also points to the progress made in countries such as Finland and Sweden in developing deep geological repositories for the permanent disposal of radioactive waste.
Spain should approach the energy transition through technological neutrality and scientific rigor
An appeal to the Spanish Government
In its conclusions, WePlanet states that Spain should approach the energy transition through technological neutrality and scientific rigor, making use of all available low-carbon technologies. The organization therefore urges the Government to maintain the operation of the Almaraz nuclear power plant, review the nuclear closure schedule, and prioritize an energy strategy based on security of supply, competitiveness and effective emissions reduction.
Sources: WePlanet, EFE News Agency.
