Official request made to extend Spain's Almaraz nuclear units

Official Request to Extend Almaraz Nuclear Units

The board of Spain's Centrales Nucleares Almaraz-Trillo (CNAT) has formally requested a three-year extension of the operating license for the Almaraz Nuclear Power Plant's units I and II. This request aims to prolong the operation of both units until June 2030.

Background and Decision

The decision was made during an extraordinary meeting of CNAT’s board of directors and the general assembly of shareholders on Thursday. The two units are currently scheduled to shut down in 2027 under Spain’s 2019 nuclear phase-out policy.

The company stated it had agreed to “officially request the Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge to modify the operating licence for the two units of the Almaraz Nuclear Power Plant, extending their operation until June 2030.”
CNAT emphasized its dedication to “continue operating the Almaraz Nuclear Power Plant safely, reliably, and efficiently, maintaining the high standards that place it among the best nuclear power plants in the world.”

Context of Spain’s Nuclear Phase-Out

Spain currently operates seven nuclear reactors: Almaraz I and II, Ascó I and II, Cofrentes, Trillo, and Vandellós II. These reactors contribute approximately 20% of the country’s electricity.

According to the 2019 nuclear phase-out plan, four reactors, including the two Almaraz units, are expected to close by the end of 2030, while the remaining three will cease operations by 2035.

Growing Calls to Rethink Phase-Out

There is an increasing debate over Spain’s plan, with some advocating for a reconsideration of the nuclear phase-out timeline to ensure energy security and sustainability.

Author’s summary: Spain’s Almaraz nuclear plant seeks a three-year operating license extension to 2030 amid ongoing debates on the country’s nuclear phase-out timeline and energy strategy.

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World Nuclear News World Nuclear News — 2025-11-01

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