Scotland has a long history of nuclear research and electricity generation. Nuclear energy consistently accounts for 20-80% of the electric supply in Scotland depending on weather conditions for wind power generation and electricity demand.[1] As of 2022, there is only one remaining operating nuclear power station in Scotland (Torness).[2]
The Scottish National Party (SNP) government elected in 2007 had a 'no new nuclear power strategy'. This position is at odds with UK government policy which in January 2008 announced the go-ahead for new nuclear power stations to be built across the United Kingdom. In response, Scotland's then First Minister Alex Salmond commented there was 'no chance' of new nuclear power stations being built in Scotland.[3] The Parliament voted 63–58 to support the policy of opposing new nuclear power stations,[4] taking advantage of a loophole which permits a veto on planning, despite lacking authority over the UK energy policy.[4] Others support nuclear as part of a sustainable, clean energy policy.[5]
- ^ "Scotland".
- ^ Paul Matthews; Iain Scherr (15 May 2019). "Annual Compendium of Scottish Energy Statistics - May 2019 Update" (PDF). Scottish Government. p. 19,73. Retrieved 30 June 2020.
- ^ New nuclear power stations get go-ahead
- ^ a b "MSPs vote No to new nuclear stations". www.scotsman.com. Archived from the original on 23 June 2008. Retrieved 2008-01-18.
- ^ "Tony Trewavas: Nuclear power opposition based on slogans and fear". www.scotsman.com. Retrieved 2017-01-22.