Centrica and EDF extend operations at four nuclear power stations

Energy suppliers Centrica and EDF have announced the extension of the lives of four operational nuclear power stations, which they say will help maintain grid stability in the UK.

The advanced gas-cooled reactor stations at Heysham 1 and Hartlepool are now expected to generate electricity until March 2027, one year later than planned, while generation at Heysham 2 and Torness has been extended by two years to March 2030.

The extensions will add 45 terawatt-hours in total, equivalent to 9TWh at Centrica's 20% share.

The extensions will support the UK's net zero ambitions and give Centrica time to develop other zero-carbon dispatchable electricity generation options, such as new nuclear and hydrogen fired generation, it said.

"At a time when energy security is uppermost in people's mind, I'm delighted that we're able to extend the operating window of the UK's nuclear fleet, which is critical to UK security of supply and the country's net zero ambitions," said Centrica's chief executive Chris O'Shea.

"In an energy system that is becoming ever more intermittent, baseload power generation that doesn't depend on the sun shining and the wind blowing is essential to keeping the lights on."

Centrica said it is it possible that additional extensions might be made following further reviews.