Tory plans to build a new generation of nuclear reactors proves the need for Scotland to have full powers to set its own energy policy, the Greens have claimed.
UK business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng is reportedly ready to approve funding for British engineering giant Rolls-Royce to create a fleet of mini-reactors.
Tory ministers are understood to have adopted a change of focus towards nuclear power amid the current crisis caused by rocketing global wholesale gas prices.
Rolls-Royce claims at least 16 plants could create 40,000 jobs by 2050 in the Midlands and the north of England.
But such plans are unlikely to be welcomed in Scotland with both the SNP and Scottish Greens firmly against nuclear power.
The Scottish Government controls the planning process for major infrastructure projects north of the Border and Nicola Sturgeon has repeatedly spoken in favour of renewables.
Scottish Greens MSP Mark Ruskell said: "Nuclear power is neither safe nor reliable. The last thing we need is a backwards step towards the nuclear industry, which would cost hundreds of millions of pounds while leaving a toxic legacy for centuries.
"The Scottish Greens in government are doubling Scotland’s onshore wind capacity and developing new opportunities for marine renewables. These are the changes that will make a vital difference.
"The truth is that the anti-climate Tories in Westminster cannot be trusted to do the right thing for the environment. That is why Scotland must have full control over our energy policy, so we can chart a different course and invest in our communities with lasting jobs and industries that have a future."
The Record reported last week how the leader of the GMB trade union had called or a new generation of nuclear power stations in Scotland.
Responding to the Roll-Royce plans, Gary Smith said: “Scotland has no chance of meeting its net zero targets without the low-carbon energy supplied by new nuclear.
“The workhorse power stations at Hunterston B and Torness not only help keep the lights on, but they also support thousands of jobs for communities in North Ayrshire and East Lothian.
“By the end of the decade they will both be gone, leaving gaping energy and employment holes that renewables cannot reliably fill.
“In the grip of a growing energy crisis, the First Minister should show some leadership and look to new nuclear as a solution rather than a problem.”
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