Key Facts
- Juan Béjar is the executive president of Bruc.
- Bruc covers 10% of the Spanish electricity demand on optimal days.
- Béjar rejects the extension of the Almaraz nuclear plant in Extremadura.
- He argues nuclear energy does not help energy independence.
Quick Summary
Executive President of Bruc, Juan Béjar, has publicly dismissed the idea that nuclear energy aids energy independence. In an interview marking the company's tenth anniversary, Béjar specifically rejected the proposed extension of the Almaraz nuclear plant in Extremadura.
He highlighted the capacity of Bruc's renewable assets, stating that the company covers 10% of the Spanish electricity market's demand on days with optimal solar conditions. Béjar also pointed to the grid's limitations, arguing that the inability to meet demand is holding back economic growth. He advocates for the deployment of battery storage to mitigate pricing risks in the sector.
Bruc's Renewable Impact
During a meeting in Madrid, Juan Béjar detailed the performance of his company's solar assets. He noted that on cold, sunny mornings, the company's 2.1 GW of installed photovoltaic capacity reaches maximum production levels.
Under these conditions, Bruc is capable of covering 10% of the 20 GW demanded by the Spanish electricity market. Béjar views this capacity as a driver for national economic activity, stating that it would allow for a "salvage push" for the country's economy.
Critique of Nuclear Energy 🚫
Béjar took a firm stance against the continuation of nuclear power generation in the country. He explicitly stated that it is false that nuclear energy helps with energy independence.
His comments were directed at the debate surrounding the Almaraz plant in Extremadura. He rejected the extension of this facility with "contundency," aligning himself with a vision for the sector that prioritizes renewable sources over nuclear longevity.
Grid Limitations and Storage 📉
The executive expressed significant frustration regarding the current limitations of the electricity system. He highlighted the system's inability to attend to the latent demand present in the market.
To counter market volatility, specifically low prices, Béjar is betting on the implementation of battery storage systems. This strategy is intended to defend the company's margins and ensure stability in a fluctuating market environment.
Executive Background
Juan Béjar brings extensive experience in the business sector to his role at Bruc. His career includes the development of the infrastructure business at Ferrovial, the stock market launch of Cintra, and the creation of the infrastructure fund at Citi.
He was also involved in the restructuring of the FCC group. This background provides him with a broad perspective on infrastructure and energy markets as he leads Bruc into its second decade of operations.
"It is false that nuclear energy helps with energy independence"
— Juan Béjar, Executive President of Bruc
"It would allow this country a massive boost to its economic activity"
— Juan Béjar, Executive President of Bruc
