Spain: Strengthening of Nuclear Regulatory Framework Praised by the IAEA

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed Spain’s progress in nuclear and radiological safety. A review mission highlighted the improvement of the regulatory framework and the implementation of recommendations made in 2018.

Partagez:

Spain has taken a significant step in improving its regulatory framework for nuclear and radiological safety. A follow-up mission conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) concluded that the country had successfully implemented recommendations from a previous review in 2018. This mission, known as the Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS), was carried out by four regulatory experts from France, Germany, Switzerland, and the United States, along with IAEA staff members.

Progress in Nuclear Safety Management

The evaluation found that 12 recommendations and 20 suggestions made in 2018 have been properly addressed by Spain. Among the notable advancements, the mission highlighted the development of a human resource management plan that includes a systematic approach to staff training, as well as the strengthening of the safety culture within the Nuclear Safety Council (CSN).

Another key achievement is the creation of a national radon action plan, aimed at mitigating risks from this naturally occurring radioactive gas. Additionally, the cooperation between the CSN and Spain’s autonomous communities has been enhanced. Scott Morris, Regional Administrator of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and team leader of the mission, emphasized Spain’s commitment to continuously improving its regulatory framework.

Digitalization and Emergency Management

Two best practices stood out during the review: the creation of a digital platform providing real-time radiation dose data to users and a centralized dosimetry system designed for tracking radiation exposure during emergencies. These innovations aim to optimize radiation monitoring and the protection of workers in radiological environments.

CSN President Juan Carlos Lentijo stated that this international evaluation reinforces Spain’s commitment to nuclear safety. He highlighted that this process is part of a continuous improvement approach to ensure high protection standards.

Ongoing Monitoring of Nuclear Regulations

Spain currently operates seven nuclear reactors, which generate approximately 20% of the country’s electricity. The country also has three permanently shut-down nuclear plants and multiple interim storage facilities for spent nuclear fuel. Additionally, Spain manages a radioactive waste disposal facility for low- and intermediate-level waste.

Spain hosted its first IRRS mission in 2008, followed by a follow-up mission in 2011 and a combined IRRS-ARTEMIS mission in 2018, which included an evaluation of radioactive waste management and decommissioning. A new ARTEMIS mission is scheduled for later this year to continue assessing and improving regulatory infrastructure.

The final report of the IRRS mission, which took place over eight days starting on January 26, will be submitted to the Spanish government within approximately three months.

After several decades without funding nuclear projects, the World Bank has formed a strategic partnership with the IAEA to provide technical and financial support to countries integrating nuclear energy into their energy strategies.
South Korea's Nuclear Safety and Security Commission officially validates the decommissioning of reactor number one at the Kori plant, initiating an unprecedented project for the national industry scheduled to last until 2037.
Uranium producer enCore Energy surpasses three thousand pounds per day at its Alta Mesa ISR complex and sees three new Texas laws as a strong signal for faster nuclear production permits.
The International Atomic Energy Agency expresses concerns over Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles following the abrupt suspension of inspections at key sites disrupted by recent attacks whose consequences remain uncertain.
NPCIL has announced an extension until September 30 for industrial proposals concerning Bharat Small Reactors (BSR), following increased interest from the Indian private sector.
Facing rising temperatures, EDF anticipates cuts in nuclear production starting early July, primarily due to thermal constraints on rivers used for cooling the power plants.
The preliminary agreement launches planning and site assessment for a tailored AP1000 reactor, following two years of feasibility study, and enlists Westinghouse and Hyundai to support Fortum’s regional nuclear expansion.
Donald Trump's unprecedented decision to dismiss Christopher Hanson, a member of the NRC, provokes outrage among former federal officials and raises concerns over the regulatory independence of the U.S. nuclear sector.
Uranium Energy Corp strengthens its position in Anfield Energy Inc., now holding approximately 32.4% of the company’s shares following an investment of CAD19.55mn ($14.82mn), significantly expanding its strategic influence in the uranium market.
New York State plans an advanced nuclear power plant with a 1-gigawatt capacity to meet long-term energy and economic goals, involving significant investment to enhance regional energy independence.
Niger announces its intention to nationalize SOMAÏR, a mining company jointly owned with Orano, provoking strong opposition from the French company and paving the way for further international legal tensions.
Russia strengthens its economic presence in Mali with new agreements, notably in nuclear energy and gold refining, consolidating strategic cooperation within a rapidly evolving geopolitical context.
The US government grants a fourth payment of $100.45 mn to Holtec International to restart the Palisades Nuclear Plant, pending regulatory approval, marking an unprecedented event in the United States.
EDF announces a major agreement with Apollo to raise up to £4.5 billion via bonds to finance the British nuclear project Hinkley Point C, whose costs continue to rise significantly.
The Élysée proposes Anne-Isabelle Étienvre, current Director of Fundamental Research at the CEA, as General Administrator to replace François Jacq, recently appointed President of CNES.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has announced his country's interest in small modular nuclear reactors to meet national energy challenges and decarbonize the maritime sector within the next fifteen years.
TerraPower, an American nuclear company, secures $650 million funding from investors, including NVIDIA, to develop its Natrium modular reactors in the United States and internationally.
EDF and the French state finalize a €70 billion financing plan for six EPR2 nuclear reactors, including a specific territorial coordination framework in Gravelines led by Michel Marbaix, awaiting European approval by 2026.
Maire S.p.A and Newcleo form strategic partnership to industrialise the development of 200 MW modular nuclear power plants, via a joint venture majority-owned by Nextchem.
A new European consortium launches the design of a small lead-cooled modular reactor, targeting global commercialisation by 2039, with a demonstration scheduled as early as 2035.