Spain Delays Closure of Nuclear Power Plant

Spain has postponed the closure of its Almaraz nuclear power plant, extending its operation until June 2030 despite plans to begin shutting down the country's nuclear fleet in 2027.

The decision, published in the government's official gazette on Friday, leaves Spain's broader energy strategy unchanged. Madrid still intends to phase out all nuclear power by 2035, but the timetable for the first shutdown has now been pushed back.

The government cited concerns over energy security, including the impact of the war in Iran on fossil fuel prices and supplies. Keeping Almaraz online is intended to help maintain a stable electricity supply during a period of heightened uncertainty in global energy markets.

Ministers also said the extension would have only a limited impact on Spain's renewable energy plans. While the government remains committed to replacing nuclear power with renewable generation, it has chosen to delay the first major step in that transition.

(Reuters, mja)