Spain should not rule out nuclear energy as an option beyond 2050 with reactor technology having “great potential” to contribute to decarbonisation through high-temperature heat supply and hydrogen production, a report by the International Energy Agency says.
The report warns that “given the great challenge” for achieving carbon neutrality in 2050, the high level of nuclear technology infrastructure and skilled professionals in Spain could be used for developing and implementing long-term energy strategies including using nuclear to contribute to the decarbonisation of the electricity system and hard-to-abate sectors such as manufacturing and transport
Spain has decided to phase out its fleet of seven commercial nuclear reactors by 2035, but the report warns this might not be straightforward.
It says the government needs to closely monitor the financial situation of its “excellent” reactor fleet to prevent any unforeseen or sudden final shutdowns that could significantly deteriorate the security of electricity supply.
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