Plans announced to extend lives of Heysham power stations

Tuesday, 16 January 2024 08:38

By Greg Lambert @greglam72

Heysham's nuclear power stations will keep running for "as long as possible" with a decision on extending their lives due by the end of the year.

Owners EDF Energy has revealed £1.3bn investment plans for its operational nuclear power plants in the UK, including Heysham 1 and Heysham 2

Heysham 1 is currently due to remain operational until March 2026, following an extension announced last year, and Heysham 2 until 2028.

Heysham power stations has long been the Lancaster and Morecambe district's biggest employer.

With two operating power stations, Heysham is the country’s largest generating nuclear site and is on the UK Government’s list for future nuclear development.

The French state-owned firm said its proposals, which are subject to regulatory approval and a final investment decision, would bolster energy security at a time when the world is seeking emission-free power amid the battle against climate change.

The plans would see its advanced gas-cooled reactors (AGRs) at the Torness, Heysham 1 and 2 and Hartlepool plants maintain output at current levels for "as long as possible", said the firm, with a decision due by the end of 2024.

EDF is also examining the potential for its Sizewell B plant to run for 20 years longer than scheduled.

The reactor at Heysham 1 has been generating electricity for more than 40 years.

EDF Energy manages all five nuclear power stations that are currently generating electricity in the UK, along with three that are defueling, the first stage of winding down operations.

EDF is also building the new, highly delayed, Hinkley Point C plant and has begun work on Sizewell C.

Campaigners oppose their construction on many grounds including environmental and cost.

The government has said in the past that it wants nuclear power to provide up to 25% of the UK's electricity needs by 2050.