UK and Scottish governments have released a plan to turn an old nuclear site into a green energy hub. The net-zero focused plan showcases the vision to develop hydrogen production storage, advanced manufacturing, energy and enterprise campuses at Chapelcross, a former nuclear power plant near Annan.
Chapelcross is one of the sites being safely and securely decommissioned by Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS), a subsidiary of the NDA.
The development of the hub will push growth in the regional economy and bring high value jobs, and activities in the green energy industry to the area, according to the UK government.
Nuclear Decommissioning Authority looking for a strategic developer
A strategic developer with expertise and private finance to help deliver the vision for the site is now being explored by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).
According to the UK government, the site is over 210 hectares in size and the land owned by the NDA comprises of the nuclear power station site itself which is undergoing decommissioning, the wider nuclear licensed site and unlicensed NDA landholding. The focus of the development is the unlicensed landholding.
“We are committed to decommissioning our sites safely, securely and sustainably – leaving a positive, long-lasting legacy for future generations,” said NDA CEO, David Peattie.
“Our ultimate aim is to free up our land for reuse, delivering benefit to local communities the environment and the wider economy – the green energy hub will enable us to deliver this at Chapelcross.”
Masterplan marks tangible progress in making the hub a reality
Peattie further maintained that the masterplan marks tangible progress in making the hub a reality and is a testament to the value of partnership working. Selecting a strategic developer will enable NDA to build on this further and leverage the benefits of public and private sector collaboration.
The plan is supported by investment of up to £15.3 million from both UK and Scottish governments (£7.5m from Scottish government and £7.8m from UK government) through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, which could help to finance the access and utility improvements.
The authorities have also maintained that strategic developer proposals must be submitted by October 25, and the NDA plans to make an appointment early in 2025.
Site boasts strong infrastructure and transport links
According to a press release , nearly 60 hectares are planned for development, positioning Chapelcross as a regional green growth catalyst. The site, part of the Scottish government’s Hydrogen Action Plan, boasts strong infrastructure and transport links.
South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE) is also taking forward an Energy Transition Zone on land adjacent to the main Chapelcross site, which will aim to generate jobs and inward investment focussed on the transition to green energy production.
“We are delighted to be progressing our Energy Transition Zone which will kickstart the development of the Green Energy Campus on the main Chapelcross site,” said Jane Morrison-Ross, Chief Executive of SOSE.
“We are committed to working with our Chapelcross partners to ensure this excellent location leads our region to a new economy based on green energy production.”
Most Popular
Comments / 0