Nuclear energy in Spain: history and prospects

Electricity generation in Spain comes mainly from fossil fuels, nuclear power and renewable energy sources. In 2020, the breakdown of electricity production was as follows: 34.9% fossil fuels, 22.2% nuclear power, 42.9% renewable sources (hydroelectric, wind, solar and others) [1]. This article focuses on nuclear power generation in Spain, presenting its history, the reactor technologies used and the innovative power plant and reactor projects currently under development.

History of nuclear power generation in Spain

The history of nuclear power in Spain dates back to the 1960s, when the country began building nuclear power plants to meet the growing demand for electricity. The first nuclear power plant, the José Cabrera nuclear power plant (also known as Zorita), was commissioned in 1968 [2]. Since then, nuclear power production has increased significantly, and today Spain operates 7 nuclear reactors in 5 plants [3].

Over the years, Spain’s nuclear energy policy has undergone significant changes. The Nuclear Energy Act of 1964 initially supported the development of nuclear power in Spain [4]. However, from the 1980s onwards, energy policy shifted towards reducing reliance on nuclear power and increasing support for renewable energies. This led to a moratorium on the construction of new nuclear power plants in 1984 [5].

Nuclear reactor technologies used in Spain

The nuclear reactors in operation in Spain are mainly pressurized water reactors (PWRs) and boiling water reactors (BWRs) [6]. Pressurized water reactors are the most common in the world, using pressurized water as moderator and coolant. Boiling water reactors operate in a similar way, but the water is also used to directly produce the steam that powers the turbines to generate electricity.

Spanish nuclear power plants mainly use reactors of American (Westinghouse and General Electric) and German (Siemens-KWU) design [7]. Modernizing and improving reactor safety are priorities for the Spanish nuclear industry, particularly after the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011. These efforts include upgrading control and protection systems, improving operating and maintenance procedures, and strengthening containment structures.

Innovative power plant and reactor projects in Spain

Although Spain has had a moratorium on the construction of new nuclear power plants since 1984, the Spanish nuclear industry remains committed to research and development of innovative reactor technologies and international cooperation. Current projects include participation in Generation IV reactor research initiatives and cooperation with other European countries on small modular reactors (SMRs).

1. Generation IV reactors: Spain is participating in international research and development initiatives on Generation IV reactors, aimed at developing safer, more efficient and more sustainable nuclear technologies [8]. Generation IV reactors offer significant improvements over current reactors in terms of safety, waste management and resource utilization.
2. International cooperation on small modular reactors (SMRs): Spain is collaborating with international partners, notably within the European Union, to develop SMRs. These new-generation reactors are more compact and modular, offer enhanced safety and have a low environmental impact. Although Spain does not yet have any concrete plans to deploy SMRs on its territory, international cooperation in this field could contribute to the country’s diversification and energy security in the long term [9].

Spanish nuclear reactors

Countries producing nuclear power

Sources :

• [1] Red Eléctrica de España (2021). Mix de generación eléctrica en España. https://www.ree.es/
• [2] World Nuclear Association. (2021). Nuclear Power in Spain. https://www.world-nuclear.org/information-library/country-profiles/countries-o-s/spain.aspx
• [3] Ibid.
• [4] Ibid.
• [5] Ibid.
• [6] Ibid.
• [7] Ibid.
• [8] Generation IV International Forum. (2021). Spain. https://www.gen-4.org/gif/jcms/c_42162/spain
• [9] World Nuclear Association. (2021). Small Nuclear