Operator, EDF, has unveiled plans to extend the lifespan of the Heysham 1 nuclear power station.
The company say that during the 2023-25 period, EDF plans to invest £1billion in the UK fleet to sustain output and help maintain security of supply, which includes the case for extending generation at both Heysham and its site in Hartlepool, beyond the current estimated end date of March 2024.
Production will be reviewed in the coming months, with an ambition to generate longer if possible.
The company is also keen to explore options to support both new nuclear technologies and hydrogen production at its Heysham site.
Related: Heysham named as designated site in government's future nuclear power strategy
Union calls for Heysham nuclear power station to remain active
Matt Sykes, Managing Director of EDF’s Generation business, said “The 5,000 people managing the UK’s existing nuclear fleet continue to make a vital contribution to powering households and businesses with clean and affordable electricity during this very challenging time.
‘’Our priority in the next few years is to deliver as much output as we safely can from the existing fleet, to support security of supply and help preserve the UK’s nuclear skills.”
Over the longer term, EDF is committed to playing its part in the Government’s commitment to expand UK nuclear capacity by 2050. With major interests in four of the eight designated sites for development, including Heysham, the company is working with ‘Great British Nuclear’ to help Government develop ideas on how to bring the policy goals to life.
Matt Sykes said, “Our business vision is focused on harnessing our nuclear skills and capabilities to support the industry’s transformation and to help manage the gap between older stations coming offline and future ones starting up; all those with an interest in the sector’s future need to work together towards that common goal.”
EDF owns four of the eight sites identified by Government for new nuclear development – Hinkley Point, Sizewell, Hartlepool and Heysham.
At Heysham, EDF operates two power stations, employing over 1,000 people in the local area, and these stations are due to generate until 2024 and 2028 respectively. EDF is in the early stages of exploring options for the site’s longer-term future.
PHOTOS: Prehistoric fun as Dino Fest returns to Lancaster
Lancaster to merge with Preston and Ribble Valley in biggest local government shake-up for 52 years
Couple who fell in love at Lancaster University return to celebrate daughter's graduation
Morecambe FC becomes first club to face action from Independent Football Regulator
Latest Freemen and Freewomen of Lancaster are announced
Casualty treated at scene of fire near Heysham
Crews tackle farm machinery fire in Wray
New parking system to go-live at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary
Police warn to keep doors locked in hot weather after burglaries in Lancaster
Arrests as police crack down on assaults by e-bikers who film attacks
It's California here we come for Lancaster performing arts school
Boater speaks out as anti-social behaviour issues rise near Lancaster Canal
Morecambe Forces veteran on mission to save lives in memory of two soldiers killed in action
Kindness helps create special garden for bereaved families at Royal Lancaster Infirmary
Lancaster MP backs call for young adults to check if they have a Child Trust Fund
Revamp of Morecambe ambulance station given thumbs up
100 'Eric Morecambes' to celebrate TV comedian's centenary with joyful skip on beach
Best parks and green spaces in Lancaster district announced as 2026 Green Flag Award winners
Hest Bank signal box transformed into railway classroom
Lancaster police to hold free bike coding events
