The Scottish government’s opposition to nuclear energy means generation from two reactors at Hunterston B, both of which are being permanently shut down, will have to be filled in part with imported gas sourced from extremely volatile global markets, driving up consumer bills and threatening the country’s energy security, the UK Nuclear Industry Association has warned.

The NIA said Hunterston B has provided further savings on consumer bills during the current energy crisis because it has been the cheapest and most reliable clean power source in Scotland. Since the beginning of September this year, the two plants have saved consumers £360m compared to market electricity prices, worth £152 for every Scottish household. In just two weeks over Christmas, the station saved billpayers £28m, worth £12 for every household.