Scotland has 'high potential' for new nuclear power plants as pressure builds on SNP to reverse opposition

Published: 20:29, 30 June 2026 | Updated: 20:29, 30 June 2026 The Nationalists are facing growing pressure to lift their ban on nuclear energy after it was revealed Scotland has ‘high potential’ for new power plants. While nuclear policy is set by the UK Government, Holyrood has power over planning and SNP ministers have vowed not to green light new nuclear plants. The energy source is seen as vital to ensure there is sufficient base load capacity when renewables do not generate enough for homes and businesses. But, unlike south of the Border where new sites are in the pipeline, when the Torness plant in East Lothian shuts down in 2030 there will be no nuclear generation left in Scotland. Torness power station in East Lothian will shut down in 2030 A new study by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has found: ‘From a technical perspective, Scotland has land areas with high potential for new nuclear development.’ Tom Greatrex, chief executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said: ‘It’s time for a return to a common sense energy policy; if communities want to host new nuclear projects, the Scottish Government should allow them.’ Tory MSP Liam Kerr MSP said: ‘Nuclear is the critical piece of the jigsaw that would protect our energy security and help cut bills for hard-pressed Scots.’ But SNP energy minister Stephen Gethins said: ‘This UK Government report simply does not demonstrate that nuclear is the right choice for Scotland.’ No comments have so far been submitted. Why not be the first to send us your thoughts, or debate this issue live on our message boards. By posting your comment you agree to our house rules. Do you want to automatically post your MailOnline comments to your Facebook Timeline? Your comment will be posted to MailOnline as usual. Do you want to automatically post your MailOnline comments to your Facebook Timeline? Your comment will be posted to MailOnline as usual We will automatically post your comment and a link to the news story to your Facebook timeline at the same time it is posted on MailOnline. To do this we will link your MailOnline account with your Facebook account. We’ll ask you to confirm this for your first post to Facebook. You can choose on each post whether you would like it to be posted to Facebook. Your details from Facebook will be used to provide you with tailored content, marketing and ads in line with our Privacy Policy.