22nd Jul 2026 18:05
(Alliance News) - Centrica PLC on Wednesday said two UK nuclear power stations in which it holds a 20% stake will remain in operation for a further two years, extending their expected closure dates to March 2030.
The Windsor, England-based energy supplier said Heysham 1 in Lancashire and Hartlepool in County Durham are now expected to close in March 2030 rather than March 2028.
The extensions are expected to add around 6 terawatt-hours of electricity generation for Centrica and require no material upfront capital investment.
Together, the two stations generate enough electricity to power more than 4 million homes annually, helping to reduce the UK's reliance on imported fossil fuels, the company said.
Centrica said the announcement follows the recently agreed heads of terms for a 20-year regulated contract for difference for the Sizewell B nuclear power station, which is expected to support its operation from 2035 to 2055 once a final agreement with the UK government is reached later this year.
There is no change to the expected March 2030 closure dates for Heysham 2 and Torness.
Chief Executive Chris O'Shea said: "I'm delighted that Heysham 1 and Hartlepool will continue to play a key role in the UK's energy system for longer."
He added: "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."
Centrica noted that the operating lives of the stations remain subject to ongoing graphite inspections, regulatory oversight and future reviews by the licensee board.
Shares in Centrica closed up 0.3% at 174.75 pence in London on Wednesday.
By Eva Castanedo, Alliance News senior economics reporter
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