Scotland holds considerable potential for new nuclear power development from a technical standpoint, according to a recent siting study commissioned by the UK government's nuclear delivery body, Great British Energy-Nuclear. The report, initiated by the Energy Secretary last autumn, investigated suitable locations across Scotland for future nuclear projects, encompassing both small modular reactors (SMRs) and larger power stations.
The study specifically pinpointed several areas already associated with nuclear power, including Torness in East Lothian, Dounreay in Caithness, and Hunterston in North Ayrshire. Additionally, other potential sites were identified around the Firth of Forth Estuary and along Scotland's eastern coast. While the report concludes these areas have high potential, it stresses that further detailed, site-specific studies would be necessary to confirm suitability. These would involve assessments of grid requirements, community engagement, and the development of a robust commercial case for any specific project.
This finding emerges amidst a clear divergence in energy policy between the UK and Scottish governments. The UK government is actively promoting a 'golden age of nuclear,' backing projects like Sizewell C in Suffolk and SMR developments in North Wales, with the aim of bolstering energy security and creating thousands of jobs. In contrast, the Scottish Government maintains a long-standing policy of not granting planning consent for new nuclear projects within Scotland's borders. UK Ministers have, however, expressed openness to discussions with their Scottish counterparts regarding the deployment of new nuclear technologies.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks commented on the report, highlighting Scotland's historical involvement in the nuclear sector and the potential for new nuclear to enhance the country's energy security and generate employment. He noted that Scotland is currently 'missing out' on the economic and energy security advantages seen in England and Wales due to the lack of new projects. The Nuclear Industry Association reports that the sector now employs a record 98,000 people across the UK, with 11,000 new jobs created last year following government investment. Scotland, however, saw the smallest jobs growth in the nuclear sector during the same period.
Tom Greatrex, Chief Executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, echoed these sentiments, asserting that Scotland possesses the necessary sites, skills, and engineering expertise for new nuclear projects, alongside strong community support. He called for a renewed dialogue on energy policy to foster a diverse mix of clean power sources, arguing that new nuclear could play a crucial role in strengthening energy security, supporting local communities, and creating jobs in Scotland.
The technical study itself is a government-commissioned report by Great British Energy-Nuclear and is not a peer-reviewed academic paper. It provides a foundational technical assessment, forming a basis for future policy discussions rather than a definitive statement on project feasibility. Existing research on nuclear site suitability often considers factors such as seismic activity, proximity to water sources for cooling, and grid connectivity, all of which would be part of more detailed studies.