The Spanish nuclear sector urges a reconsideration of the phase-out policy.

Companies representing the Spanish nuclear industry have released a statement advocating for the extended operation of the nation’s nuclear power plants. According to existing plans, all power reactors in Spain are expected to be decommissioned by 2035.

The seven nuclear reactors currently in operation in Spain—Almaraz I and II, Ascó I and II, Cofrentes, Trillo, and Vandellós II—supply approximately 20% of the country's electricity. Per the nuclear phase-out plan agreed upon in 2019, four reactors are set to close by the end of 2030, with the remaining three following suit by 2035.

The manifesto, signed by 32 companies including Empresarios Agrupados-GHESA (EAG), Framatome, GDES, GE Vernova, IDOM, and Westinghouse, states: "We call for the start of a dialogue and a renegotiation of the 2019 agreement regarding the phased shutdown of nuclear power plants. This agreement was made under an industrial, geopolitical, social, and economic context that is significantly different from today’s circumstances.

"Our industrial network should not suffer a decline in competitiveness due to the decision to begin shutting down nuclear power plants from 2027, starting with the Almaraz nuclear power facility, without securing a feasible alternative that utilizes all CO2-free energy sources."

The signatories urge the Spanish government and relevant authorities to update the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan, incorporating measures that would ensure the continued operation of nuclear energy. "This energy source must be acknowledged as reliable, efficient, and competitive, with low carbon emissions, and deserving of equitable treatment to promote investment," they assert.

The companies argue that prolonging the operation of Spain’s nuclear power plants "would maintain the sustainability of our increasingly demanding energy system without compromising supply security or hindering the expansion of renewable infrastructures. Moreover, it would strengthen geostrategic independence from other countries."

However, the manifesto highlights the necessity of ensuring the economic viability of nuclear power plants, particularly regarding the excessive tax burdens currently placed on the sector.

Spanish nuclear facilities, it states, have been upgraded and can continue operations for many more years, potentially up to 60 or even 80 years, in line with global trends.

The document also indicates that the auxiliary industry supporting Spain's nuclear sector generates nearly 20,000 stable, skilled jobs, encompassing engineering firms, component manufacturers, and support services. "The premature dismantlement of these infrastructures would cause an irreversible economic and social impact on the regions where they operate," it warns.

"The early shutdown of nuclear power plants will result in significant environmental and economic consequences, affecting citizens and leading to the loss of thousands of jobs both in the industry and associated sectors. Additionally, it would cause an irreversible depletion of technological resources and human capital, undermining the country's ability to sustain a competitive and sustainable energy infrastructure."

Earlier this month, the Plenary Session of the Spanish Congress endorsed a proposal urging the government to enact a series of measures aimed at reversing the nation’s decision to phase out nuclear power. This proposal, presented by the right-wing People’s Party, received approval on February 12, passing with 171 votes in favor, 164 against, and 14 abstentions.