Plans for the future of the Chapelcross nuclear power station have been released today, with work set to contribute to the UK and Scottish government’s net zero targets. 

The multi-million pound, net zero-focused development includes plans for hydrogen production storage and advanced manufacturing, as well as energy and enterprise campuses.

The site, part of the Scottish Government’s Hydrogen Action Plan, boasts nearly 60 hectares for development, with hopes of positioning Chapelcross as a regional green growth catalyst. 

Among the core objectives of the project is to support the local economy through the delivery of clean energy by solar, wind and geothermal means, as well as fuel creation and power storage solutions.

Support for the Chapelcross project comes from a range of sources, including Dumfries and Galloway Council, South of Scotland Enterprise, and the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, with funding of up to £15.3 million from both UK and Scottish governments which could help to finance the access and utility improvements needed.

The site is currently being decommissioned by Nuclear Restoration Services, with Dumfries and Galloway council stating that the development will take advantage of legacy infrastructure and transport connectivity in the area.    

As well as developing the main site, South of Scotland Enterprise is also taking forward an Energy Transition Zone on land adjacent to the main Chapelcross area, aiming to generate jobs and investment focused on the transition to green energy production in the region.

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Commenting on the plans, Dumfries and Galloway council leader, Gail Macgregor, said: “By commissioning this masterplan, we have a clear vision for delivering future jobs which supports our transition to net zero for the region. 

“We are united with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority and South of Scotland Enterprise in our ambition for the future of Chapelcross as a powerful force for change in the local economy and look forward to the design developing.”

The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) are now looking to identify a strategic developer for the Chapelcross site who can bring both expertise and private finance to help deliver the project, with proposals due by 25 October this year.