EDF is to reintroduce low-carbon power generation by restarting a reactor at the Hunterston B power station in Ayrshire following regulatory approval.
The development follows a two-year inspection and investment programme to prove the station can respond safely to a range of earthquake scenarios, and is subject to an additional inspection in Spring 2021 and regulatory approval for a final 6 months of operation.
Hunterston B commenced generating low carbon electricity in 1976.
In 2012 EDF extended the generating life of the station to March 2023 and stipulated a proviso of 2 years either side of that date.
Once the station stops generating power, EDF will take on the next task of defuelling the station - the first stage of the nuclear decommissioning process.
Preparations for defuelling have been underway for a long time and, once started, the process is expected to take a few years to complete.
Defuelling will involve continued use of EDF’s uniquely experienced teams, and specialist supply chain companies, thereby helping sustain an important source of local jobs in Ayrshire and the surrounding economy.
Matt Sykes, Managing Director for EDF’s Generation business, says: "Hunterston B has quietly delivered a major contribution to the UK for more than 40 years.
It has far exceeded its original remit and, over its lifetime, gone on to safely produce enough low carbon energy to power the whole of Scotland for 8 years.
Today’s announcement underlines the urgent need for investment in new, low carbon nuclear power to help Britain achieve net zero and secure the future for its nuclear industry, supply chain and workers.
"We didn’t know back in the 1960s, when these plants were designed, just how important low carbon energy would become.
We owe all those that designed, built, commissioned and still operate the station a huge debt of gratitude.
Our focus is on continuing to safely deliver the last period of power generation and then transition the station into decommissioning."
Simone Rossi, EDF UK CEO, adds: "I am extremely proud of all those who have run Hunterston B for more than 40 years.
Today’s announcement underlines the urgent need for investment in new, low carbon nuclear power to help Britain achieve net zero and secure the future for its nuclear industry, supply chain and workers."
EDF is building European pressurised water reactors (EPRs) at Hinkley Point C and developing plans for a replica plant at Sizewell C.
It also has a minority stake in the Bradwell B project.
