The Almaraz II and Vandellos II plants have shut for refueling. Each plant has the capacity to generate 1,000 MW.
Garona nuclear power station is at the centre of a debate over the future of nuclear power in Spain, as it is the first of seven nuclear plants whose operating permits are up for renewal in the next two years.
The Spanish government has guaranteed to phase out Spain’s nuclear plants in favor of increasing renewable energy sector, but has not ruled out extending their working lives.
Garona’s permit expires on July 5, 2009, and the CSN is working on a technical report on whether the plant can run for another 10 years. The report will only be binding if it concludes Garona must close, otherwise the Spanish government has the final say.
