Raw Materials and Energy Sources in Spain: An In-Depth Look
Raw Materials and Energy Sources
Raw materials are resources used to make products, either finished or semi-finished. They can be classified into two types:
- Raw materials of organic origin
- Mineral raw materials
Mineral Raw Materials
a) Metallic Minerals: Found in certain areas.
b) Non-metallic Minerals: Found in Paleozoic formations.
Industrial rocks (clay, sand, limestone, etc.) are also important. National production of minerals is insufficient for self-sufficiency, requiring trade, which creates a deficit. Spanish mining policy, within the framework of the EU, aims to increase national mining competitiveness and improve the mining habitat. This policy has led to the closure of many mines.
Energy Sources
Energy sources are resources that provide energy for various applications, such as industry. Spain is an example of energy imbalance and dependence, as energy consumption clearly outweighs production. Energy consumption has increased since Spain’s industrialization, which was initially based mainly on coal.
1. Main Primary Energy Sources
Coal
Coal is a black, stratified fuel formed by the decomposition of plant remains over millions of years. The quality of coal depends on its calorific value and the age of this process. During the Industrial Revolution, coal played a hegemonic role, and its production grew thanks to protectionism against cheaper foreign competition. However, since 1984, production has declined due to two problems:
- Some rich deposits have been exhausted.
- Others have low quality or limited use.
Many mines present operational difficulties arising from minifundismo (small landholdings). There is also a decline in domestic demand and industry. EU entry liberalized prices, ending traditional protectionism. Coal production is located in thirteen major basins, among which the Asturian basins stand out. Its main use is electricity generation in thermal power plants, adjusted to complement hydroelectric production.
Petroleum
Petroleum is a dark mineral oil composed of a mixture of hydrocarbons. Oil is the primary energy source in Spain. Its rise occurred in the 1960s with the development of domestic industry. However, domestic oil production is scarce and localized on the Mediterranean coast and inland.
There are numerous varieties of petroleum products and applications, especially for industry and transport.
Natural Gas
Natural gas is a mixture of gaseous hydrocarbons, predominantly methane. It is a relatively recent consumer energy source and does not yet have excessive weight, although its increase is envisioned. Localized production in the Basque Country and Huelva has grown dramatically since 1976. However, Spanish production is insufficient for self-sufficiency. Products obtained include butane gas and naphtha, used in various applications: industrial, electricity generation, and domestic use.
Nuclear Fission Energy
Nuclear energy is obtained from the fission (separation) of heavy uranium atoms. Nuclear fission is also recent in Spain. Its growth was linked to the need to reduce oil dependency during the 1975 crisis. Uranium is obtained from deposits in Salamanca. Its main application is electricity generation in nine nuclear reactors. The main problems with fission energy are external dependence on uranium enrichment technology and the risks, despite existing safety measures.
Hydroelectric Energy
Hydroelectric energy is obtained from a renewable source: water impounded in reservoirs or lakes that falls and moves turbines. Half of the production is localized in the north of the peninsula, and the other half along the Mediterranean coast. Its main application is electricity generation. It offers the advantages of being renewable, clean, and instantaneous, but it also presents problems.
New Renewable Energy Sources
The use of renewable energy sources began with the oil crisis, which made it necessary to reduce energy dependence and increase self-sufficiency. Spain offers favorable conditions for renewable energy production due to its diverse environment. The main applications are thermal, electrical, or mechanical energy. Various types of renewable energy are distinguished:
a) Mini-hydropower plants: These are small-scale hydropower plants.
b) Wind energy: The force of the wind is used to transform it into mechanical or electrical energy. Prominent communities are Galicia and Navarre.
c) Biomass: Energy is obtained from biological waste, including agricultural, forestry, and livestock waste.
d) Solar energy: Uses light or heat from the sun. It has thermal and photovoltaic applications.
e) Geothermal energy: Uses hot water or groundwater steam.
2. Electricity Production
Primary energy sources cannot be used directly but need to be transformed into usable forms. In Spain, more than half of the electricity is obtained in conventional thermal power plants, and the remainder comes from nuclear fission and hydroelectric power plants.
3. Spanish Energy Policy
Spanish energy policy began later than in other surrounding countries. In 1986, the Renewable Energies Plan was launched.
a) EU Energy Policy Objectives:
- Guarantee a safe supply
- Promote energy savings and renewable energy sources
- Complete the internal market
- Avoid negative environmental impacts
b) The new National Energy Plan (PEN): Significantly increases gas consumption. The plan addresses environmental objectives.
c) Plan to Promote Renewable Energies: Aims to meet the EU target of 12% renewable energy production by 2010.