Primary Energy Sources in Spain
1. Coal
Coal, a layered rock formed from decomposed plant debris over millions of years, varies in quality and calorific value depending on its age. Anthracite coal originated in the Primary Era, while lignite formed in the Secondary Era. Since 1984, domestic coal production has declined despite continued consumption, due to several factors:
- Exhaustion of rich deposits and presence of poor-quality reserves.
- Decreased demand.
- Expensive operation.
- Liberalized prices following entry into the European Community, favoring imported coal.
While the most productive mines receive public aid as strategic resources, many analysts advocate for their closure. Key production areas include the Asturian-Leonese Basin-Palencia and Teruel. However, domestic production does not achieve self-sufficiency. Coal remains crucial for the steel industry and electricity generation in power plants.
2. Oil
Formed from the decomposition of ancient animals and plants within geological layers, oil saw increased use in Spain starting in the 1960s. The 1973 oil crisis led to reduced consumption by 1980. Since then, consumption has risen again, driven by transport demand. Domestic oil production is minimal (0.8% of consumption), concentrated on the Mediterranean coast (Tarragona) and Burgos. This necessitates substantial imports from the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, etc.), Nigeria, Latin America (Mexico, Venezuela), and Europe (UK and Russia). Oil is primarily used for transport, refinery products (oil, gasoline, lubricating oils, asphalt), and petrochemical production (sulfur, ammonia). Refineries are located along the peninsular coast (Tarragona, Cartagena), Puertollano, and Tenerife.
3. Natural Gas
Natural gas, a mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons dominated by methane, is found in underground deposits, often alongside oil. Since 1976, its use has surged due to its high calorific value, lower cost, and reduced pollution. Spain relies on imports via ships from the Persian Gulf and Algeria, and pipelines from Algeria, Norway, and Portugal. Natural gas is primarily used for heating in homes and industries, cooking, and electricity generation in power plants.
4. Nuclear Energy
Nuclear power, derived from uranium fission, began in Spain in 1969. However, expansion halted in 1999 due to public concerns about accident risks and radioactive waste storage, currently handled in Cabril (Córdoba). Proponents cite improved safety technology, lack of CO2 emissions, and rising oil prices. Eight nuclear power plants generate electricity: Almaraz I and II (Cáceres), Cofrentes (Valencia), Asco I and II and Vandellós II (Tarragona), Trillo (Guadalajara), and Santa Maria de Garoña (Burgos).
5. Hydropower
Hydropower utilizes water from reservoirs and lakes to drive turbines connected to generators, converting mechanical power into electricity. This sector experienced significant growth between 1940 and 1970, concentrated in areas with topographic slopes and rivers, particularly along the Duero and Tajo rivers bordering Portugal. Hydropower plants are typically located at the base of waterfalls.
6. Renewable Energy Sources
Renewable energy sources are inexhaustible and clean, although their facilities (wind turbines, solar panels) can cause some pollution. Their use began after the 1973 oil crisis, but implementation has been slow due to high costs. These sources primarily generate electricity.
- Biomass energy: Derived from agricultural, livestock, and forestry waste, biomass provides heat or electricity through burning and fermentation (biogas). “Green biomass” or energy crops for transport (bioethanol) are under development.
- Wind power: Utilizes wind to generate mechanical or electrical energy. Wind farms are located in areas with strong, constant winds (mountain peaks and coasts). Energy costs are very low.
- Solar energy: Harnesses heat and sunlight. Solar thermal panels heat water and provide heating. Thermal power plants use mirrors to produce steam. Photovoltaic panels generate electricity.
- Geothermal energy: Uses steam from underground hot water, but its use in Spain is minimal.
- Tidal power: Utilizes the power of seawater tides, but its contribution is also minimal.