Extension of Almaraz Nuclear Plant Generates Mixed Reactions

The Ministry for Ecological Transition issued an order revoking the existing authorization for the closure of the Almaraz nuclear plant, allowing its operation until June 2030. This decision was communicated through the Official State Bulletin (BOE).

Municipalities in areas near nuclear plants, such as Ascó and Vandellòs, have celebrated the extension of the Almaraz plant's lifespan. They consider this postponement a positive measure for the region's energy future, highlighting the importance of nuclear energy in Catalonia's energy mix.

For its part, the Popular Party has deemed this extension insufficient. The political party has called for the cancellation of nuclear plant closures, arguing that the signing of this new deadline does not meet the country's energy needs.

The decision to extend the operation of Almaraz has altered the previously established timeline for the closure of nuclear plants in Spain, which had projected shutting down reactors in 2027 and 2028. This change, according to sources, responds to pressure from the plant's owners, Iberdrola, Endesa, and Naturgy, due to factors such as gas prices.

From the government, it has been stated that this measure is taken in a complicated energy context and that long-term closure will remain part of ecological transition policies, although the extension of Almaraz represents a significant shift in direction.