Will Almaraz Remain Operational? Insights from the Nuclear Safety Council
After weeks of uncertainty for thousands of employees, the Nuclear Safety Council (CSN) has made a significant decision regarding the future of the Almaraz Nuclear Power Plant in Cáceres. In its highly anticipated technical report, the agency has given the green light for an extension, supporting the plant’s operation until 2030. However, this outcome, while timely, is not yet definitive. September will serve as the deadline for the government to determine whether the plant will remain operational or close in 2027.
CSN’s Decision and Its Implications
The CSN has stated that its decision is based on a thorough assessment of the plant’s proper functioning and the maintenance of adequate safety standards necessary for continued operation. The fate of the plant now rests with the Ministry of Ecological Transition, led by Third Deputy Prime Minister Sara Aagesen, who will decide on the extension of the plant’s operational life requested by the electricity companies Iberdrola (52.7%), Naturgy (36%), and Endesa (11.3%).
According to sources from the ministry, the government is awaiting a formal report from the CSN regarding the request from Almaraz-Trillo Nuclear Power Stations (CNAT) to renew their operating license until June 8, 2030. The ministry will review the findings and all relevant documentation before making a final decision on whether to continue operations. If the renewal is not authorized, the owning companies will need to request an official closure of the plant.
The Timeline Dilemma
While the government aims to maximize the two-month period to reach its decision, time is of the essence. A deadline set by Nuclear Forum highlights the importance of October as a critical juncture, past which operational hurdles will complicate the renewal of contracts with collaborative firms, as noted by technical director Antonio González.
A Shifting Schedule
The implications of the CSN’s decision extend beyond immediate operations. Although the CSN’s role is primarily advisory, its recommendation compels the government to reevaluate the timeline established in 2018. This roadmap could be revised, not only due to political pressures but also because of the real viability of shutting down all nuclear plants on time.
The current plan stipulates the beginning of shutdowns in the province of Cáceres, starting with Almaraz I on November 1, 2027, and Almaraz II on October 31, 2028. However, within two years, the onus of decommissioning will shift to Catalonia and Valencia, with Ascó I set for closure on October 1, 2030, and Cofrentes on November 30 of the same year.
Future Considerations
If the timeline is extended, there will be significant repercussions, forcing Enresa, the agency responsible for handling radioactive waste, to manage the decommissioning of four reactors simultaneously within a single year. Following these initial closures, subsequent disconnections will continue with Ascó II targeted for September 2032, and final closures expected to wrap up by 2035 with Vandellós II and Trillo.
The decision now lies with the government as to whether to alter its timetable, especially given that the energy mix demands a consistent power supply like that provided by nuclear energy, even in a landscape increasingly dominated by renewable sources.