SNP need to think big on new nuclear, Green says

Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, David Green, highlighted the importance of new nuclear to sites like Dounreay in Holyrood as he called Scottish Government to rethink its opposition to new nuclear power,

Speaking during a Scottish Parliament debate on nuclear power, Mr Green highlighted the vital role that sites such as Dounreay can play in the next generation of nuclear energy projects.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are a new generation of nuclear power stations designed to be built in factories and assembled on site. Supporters argue that they can generate reliable, low-carbon electricity more flexibly, safely and cost-effectively than traditional large-scale nuclear plants.

Despite growing interest in new nuclear technology across the UK, the SNP Government continues to use planning policy to block the development of new nuclear projects in Scotland.

During the debate, Mr Green stressed the importance of Dounreay to the local economy and pointed to the highly skilled workforce in the Far North as a major asset for future nuclear developments.

Mr Green said: “The Scottish Government’s opposition to new nuclear sends a worrying message to Scotland’s nuclear workforce- that is a message that their future lies elsewhere.

“The Dounreay site in Caithness directly employs around 1,400 staff, 96% of whom live locally, with a wider supply chain supporting hundreds more jobs. The site is also unique in Scotland for the innovation and emerging technologies required to address its complex legacy.

“The lessons learned at Dounreay are highly relevant to the future of nuclear energy. New nuclear power stations being designed and built today will benefit directly from the experience gained in Caithness.

He added: “The UK Climate Change Committee- an expert-led body- has made clear that nuclear is essential to the UK’s decarbonised electricity mix.

“With the UK Government committed to new investment, nuclear will be part of our energy future across these islands. The question is whether Scotland chooses to seize the opportunity to create jobs and investment here at home.

“The success of Dounreay depends on a highly skilled workforce of engineers, project managers, scientists and technicians. These skills do not exist in isolation. They are sustained by a thriving nuclear sector that offers long-term careers, investment and innovation.

“As I said to the Dounreay Stakeholder Group only a few weeks ago, I will fight for their interests. I hope this Scottish Government is willing to think big- and do likewise.”  

ENDS