Centrica has confirmed further life extensions for the Heysham 1 and Hartlepool nuclear power stations, in which it has a 20% share, extending their expected closure dates by a further two years to March 2030.
Together, Heysham 1 and Hartlepool produce enough electricity to power more than 4 million homes a year, reducing the UK’s reliance on imported fossil fuels and supporting the transition to a cleaner energy system. These extensions add approximately 6TWh of incremental generation for the Company, helping to strengthen the UK's energy security with further reliable, low-carbon electricity. There is no material upfront capital investment required as part of these extensions.
'These stations provide reliable, low-carbon electricity that supports Britain's energy security, protects skilled jobs and underpins a more resilient economy,' said Chris O'Shea, Group Chief Executive of Centrica.
This announcement follows the recently announced Heads of Terms for a 20-year regulated Contract for Difference agreement for the Sizewell B nuclear power station, which is expected to enable the station to continue operating from 2035 to 2055. The contract with UK Government is expected to be finalised later this year.
There is no change to the expected closure date of March 2030 for Heysham 2 and Torness, as announced in December 2024.
Chris O'Shea, Chief Executive of Centrica said: 'I'm delighted that Heysham 1 and Hartlepool will continue to play a key role in the UK's energy system for longer. These stations provide reliable, low-carbon electricity that supports Britain's energy security, protects skilled jobs and underpins a more resilient economy.
'Following the recent positive news on the life extension of Sizewell B, this further demonstrates the important role nuclear can continue to play in delivering the secure and dependable power the UK needs as demand for electricity grows.'
Background
- These dates are forecasts, and the precise dates will be determined by the results of regular graphite inspections and how those results are interpreted by the operator, and by the independent regulator, the Office for Nuclear Regulation.
- End of generation dates are kept under review and revised based on the best information available at the time.
- Decisions on end of generation dates for nuclear power stations in the UK are independent of the regulator or government and are taken by the licensee board following recommendations.
- The decision to change the end generation dates for the two stations was taken following a licensee board meeting on 22 July 2026.
- Prior to this decision, Heysham 1 and Hartlepool power stations were due to move into defueling in March 2028 based on a review in September 2025.
- The lifetimes of Torness and Heysham 2 were not reviewed as part of this process.
Source: Centrica
