Torness Power Station has a proud history of generating clean, reliable energy and providing skilled jobs.

It was among my earliest local visits after being elected as the MP for Lothian East constituency last year, when I was pleased to meet management and staff and learn more about the station’s work.

The 500-plus workforce at Torness clearly demonstrate the commitment of those working in the industry to delivering clean energy to millions of homes and businesses while maintaining the highest possible safety levels. We cannot thank them enough for the vital contribution they have made to our energy needs and to the local economy over the last 37 years.

However, as the plant nears the end of its generating lifetime, it is essential that the industry, decision-makers and local communities consider carefully what will come next for the site, and the jobs and apprenticeships it has provided for so long.

With demand for electricity set to at least double by 2050, we must explore all options for utilising low-carbon, homegrown power sources. The reliable, baseload power produced by nuclear makes it an essential part of that homegrown, clean energy mix.........

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