Vision for Chapelcross takes step forward

PLANS for a green energy hub at Chapelcross have reached a significant milestone.

The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) this week announced it’s now working with CX Power as the strategic developer to support the delivery of the hub masterplan on land next to the former power station.

The privately funded, multi-million pound, net-zero focused development includes plans for hydrogen production, advanced manufacturing, and AI enabled data centres.

And it will generate several hundred high value jobs and attract skills and investment, with both parties predicting it will transform the region.

The NDA has entered into Heads of Terms with CX Power, an entity comprising of GA Consultants and Global Mutual Properties Limited, to bring their expertise in planning and private finance to help deliver the vision for the site.

The next step for CX Power will be securing necessary planning consents and utility connections and undertaking market engagement.

NDA Group CEO David Peattie, said: “CX Power coming on board is a significant step forwards, unlocking the combined potential of the public and private sector to accelerate the programme at Chapelcross.”

And CX Power CEO Graeme Anderson said: “We’re thrilled to join the programme team. This is an opportunity to build a new economy based on the abundance of local green energy production. Embracing the UK’s natural wind and solar energy resources to actively support our national grid rather than burden it.

“It’ll also open up opportunities for skills development and knowledge exchange creating a powerful force for change in the local economy, the Borderlands and Scotland.”

The focus of the CX Power development is 135 acres of the available land within the unlicensed landholding of the estate, adjacent to the former nuclear power site.

There is potential to locate a 1GW data centre campus, which would harness the 3GW of renewable energy supplies within a 50 mile radius, including wind and solar developments.

Nuclear Restoration Services are also involved in the wider masterplan and CEO Rob Fletcher said: “By working alongside CX Power and the strategic partner team, we’re helping to unlock innovation in hydrogen, advanced manufacturing and digital technologies, while supporting net zero goals.

“It’s a milestone that reflects collaboration, commitment and the shared belief that NDA land can power progress.”

Meanwhile, UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks is pleased with the latest update and said: “Chapelcross has powered the south of Scotland for decades and now is being given new life with this clean energy hub, creating jobs and revitalising local communities.”

Also welcoming the progress, Dumfries and Galloway Council leader Stephen Thompson, said: “We look forward to working closely with CX Power and our partners to deliver a project that will bring real and lasting benefits to Dumfries and Galloway.

“The Chapelcross Green Energy Hub will be able to create high-quality jobs and attract new skills to our area, but can also play a vital role in supporting our ambitious transition to net zero.

“This is a unique opportunity to harness the potential of Chapelcross for communities, economy and environment, and we are committed to ensuring that local people and businesses are a key part of the positive impact this development will have for years to come.”