The future of Spain's nuclear power plants hangs in the balance as a tax dispute intensifies, with the potential for the closure of the Almaraz plant in Extremadura looming. The dispute centers around the 'Enresa fee,' a charge levied on nuclear power plant operators for the management of radioactive waste and decommissioning.
The Spanish government, under Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, has defended the fee, arguing that it is not a tax but rather a cost borne by the operators based on the 'polluter pays' principle. However, nuclear plant owners, including Iberdrola, Endesa, and Naturgy, have protested the fee's increase, claiming it makes their operations financially unsustainable.
The outcome of this dispute could have significant implications for Spain's energy sector. The closure of Almaraz would reduce the country's nuclear power generation capacity, potentially leading to increased reliance on other energy sources. The dispute also raises broader questions about the role of nuclear power in Spain's energy mix and the government's approach to managing radioactive waste.
Key moments to watch for include the Supreme Court's ruling on the 'Enresa fee' and any potential negotiations between the government and the nuclear plant owners.