The reopening of the GaroƱa nuclear power plant remains a controversial issue, with divided opinions on the advisability of reactivating the facility. The Prime Minister at the time, Mariano Rajoy, emphasized that any reopening would guarantee the highest nuclear safety standards , acknowledging that nuclear energy is not without potential risks.
The government approached the decision regarding the plant's return to operation carefully, listening to all stakeholders . During a question period in Congress, the spokesperson for the Basque Group, Aitor Esteban, expressed serious concern and urged the government to abandon plans to extend the facility's operational life. According to Esteban, the plant is too old and poses a risk that cannot be ignored, given its outdated technology and minimal impact on national electricity production.
Reopening conditions
The Nuclear Safety Council (CSN) has been key in determining the requirements that would have allowed the reopening of GaroƱa in the past. Specifically, it established two main conditions: first, the implementation of significant investments to improve the infrastructure, ensuring that the nuclear power plant could operate under strict safety standards; and second, the periodic monitoring of the plant's safety through regular technical reviews.
Despite the technical considerations, the Government reaffirmed its commitment to listen to all interested parties before making a final decision. The hearings with political institutions and energy experts were an opportunity to discuss various aspects and, after collecting opinions, the Government would move towards deciding the future of the facility.
All documentation must be studied
The feasibility study for reopening GaroƱa involves thoroughly analysing all available documentation, as the plant has been in operation for almost 30 years. The analysis must include safety reviews carried out throughout its operation, economic reports and current environmental studies.
Accidents like Fukushima and Chernobyl remind us of the importance of maintaining rigorous control over nuclear facilities. Radiation can have devastating and long-lasting effects. Despite decades having passed since the Chernobyl disaster, the consequences for the local population are still evident, with birth defects and illnesses resulting from radiation exposure.
Furthermore, the economic viability of reopening GaroƱa has been questioned. The plant contributed only 0,4% of Spain's installed capacity , a very low percentage that would not significantly lower the price of electricity in the country. This has raised further doubts about whether it really makes sense to assume the risks and costs involved in reopening it, especially when other energy sources, such as renewables, are gaining ground.
Arguments for and against reopening
The debate over reopening the GaroƱa nuclear power plant remains active , and addressing this issue involves considering multiple factors. On the one hand, those in favor of reopening argue that GaroƱa could offer a secure and stable source of energy , especially in a context where the energy crisis generated by international conflicts has jeopardized electricity prices.
Proponents of reopening argue that, while the required investments are considerable, some of the existing infrastructure could be reused, reducing costs. They also point out that other European countries, such as Switzerland and Belgium , have extended the lifespan of their nuclear power plants. However, most of those projects have required technological upgrades and safety enhancements to ensure continued safe operation.
On the other hand, those who oppose the reopening of GaroƱa believe the plant is obsolete. Since 2012, the plant's infrastructure has continued to deteriorate . More than five years have passed since the main systems were shut down, so, according to experts at Nuclenor, the company that owns the plant, reopening it would not be economically viable.
The main argument against reopening GaroƱa concerns the high costs of adapting it to operate again. The plant has been in the dismantling phase, and a permit similar to that required for a new nuclear power plant would be necessary to guarantee its safety. This process would not only be expensive but also lengthy, potentially hindering its integration into a changing energy system with new technologies.
Decommissioning of the power plant
The dismantling process of the GaroƱa nuclear power plant has already begun, managed by the National Radioactive Waste Company ( ENRESA ), following the transfer of ownership from Nuclenor. Dismantling is a lengthy and delicate process that must be carried out with extreme care to avoid any risk of radioactive contamination.
The first phase has involved loading spent fuel into containers specifically designed for its safe storage. Over the next few years, the process of disconnecting all operational parts of the plant is expected to be completed, as well as the dismantling of the reactor itself, scheduled to be finished by 2032.
According to the Nuclear Safety Council , dismantling a plant of this type requires strict adherence to regulations to ensure that no radioactive material remains. Throughout the process, regular inspections will also be carried out to guarantee compliance with all regulations.
The reopening of the GaroƱa nuclear power plant is a controversial issue with divided perspectives. While some see it as a possible solution to the energy crisis and an opportunity to take advantage of existing infrastructure, others consider that the cost of its reopening is too high, both economically and in terms of safety.