THE masterplan to develop Chapelcross into a green energy hub has been unveiled by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).
The multi-million pound, net zero-focused proposals will see the former nuclear power plant near Annan transformed to include hydrogen production storage, advanced manufacturing, and energy and enterprise campuses.
NDA added that the development of the hub will drive growth in the local economy, attracting high value jobs, skills and activities in the green energy industry to the area. The organisation is now looking to identify a strategic developer to bring expertise and private finance to help deliver the vision for the site.
The plans are 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, NDA said.
NDA CEO, David Peattie, said, “We are committed to decommissioning our sites safely, securely and sustainably – leaving a positive, long-lasting legacy for future generations. 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.
“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 us to build on this further and leverage the benefits of public and private sector collaboration.”
Richard Murray, NRS Chapelcross site director, added, “We welcome the Chapelcross masterplan, which builds on our rich history of low carbon energy generation and repositions this for a green energy future. The NDA landholding and the site’s range of existing utilities and grid infrastructure will maximise our contribution to net zero and support sustainable economic growth. The significant release of 60 hectares of NDA land to support phase one is the equivalent of 84 adult football pitches!
“NRS will continue to play an important, strategic role in this project and is committed to retaining vital skills in the region for future developments through our comprehensive decommissioning programme, ensuring that we keep the energy sector supply chain vibrant and robust in our communities – securing opportunities and benefits for all our futures.”
