Spain keeps largest nuclear plant open until 2030 but maintains 2035 phase-out

Spain has extended the operating life of its largest nuclear power plant, Almaraz, until June 2030, delaying the initial phase-out of nuclear energy in the country. This decision, announced by the government, allows both reactors at the plant in Extremadura to continue operating until June 8, 2030. Almaraz was originally scheduled to lead Spain's nuclear phase-out, with Unit I set to close permanently in November 2027 and Unit II in October 2028.

However, the government maintains that the extension only applies to Almaraz and does not alter its commitment to shut down the nation's entire nuclear power sector by 2035. The extension was granted following a request from the plant's owners, Iberdrola, Endesa, and Naturgy, along with approval from Spain's Nuclear Safety Council.

The ministry emphasized that the plant remains safe for people, with both the plant's proper functioning and radiological safety confirmed. The extension comes amid a changed international energy landscape, with Spain citing uncertainty in markets and high fossil fuel prices as reasons for the temporary extension. This move aims to shield Spanish consumers and the electricity system from unexpected spikes in fossil fuel prices.

Despite the extension, renewable energy and storage solutions will continue to be emphasized as structural solutions to address the risks associated with external dependence on fossil fuels. The future of nuclear power in Spain has returned to the political agenda following a blackout in April 2025, which raised questions about the resilience of the electricity system.

While nuclear power currently accounts for about one-fifth of Spain's electricity generation, Almaraz alone provides around 7% of the country's annual electricity demand, equivalent to the consumption of approximately four million homes. The government maintains that extending Almaraz will have a limited impact on Spain's ambitious renewable energy program, with renewable deployment expected to be around 1.4% lower and electricity generation from natural gas falling by 7%.

The decision to extend Almaraz has sparked debate within Spain's governing coalition, with the left-wing junior partner condemning it as driven by corporate pressure rather than technical and environmental needs. Environmental organizations have also criticized the decision, accusing the government of prioritizing economic interests over technical safety and consumer bills.