British Gas owner Centrica has confirmed that two nuclear power stations it part-owns will stay online for an extra two years. Heysham 1 and Hartlepool, in which it holds a 20% stake, now have an expected closure date of March 2030.
Together the stations generate enough electricity for more than four million homes each year. The move adds around 6TWh of extra low-carbon output with no big new spending required, helping cut our reliance on imported fossil fuels.
"These stations provide reliable, low-carbon electricity that supports Britain's energy security, protects skilled jobs and underpins a more resilient economy."
— Chris O'Shea, Group Chief Executive of Centrica
The decision follows recent positive news on Sizewell B and comes as electricity demand is set to rise. End dates for Heysham 2 and Torness stay at March 2030.
The Office for Nuclear Regulation will keep a close eye on graphite inspections before the stations finally shut down. For households, longer-running nuclear helps keep the grid stable while we push towards net zero.
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