The Nationalists are facing growing pressure to lift their ban on nuclear energy after it was revealed Scotland has ‘high potential’ for new power plants.

While nuclear policy is set by the UK Government, Holyrood has power over planning and SNP ministers have vowed not to green light new nuclear plants.

The energy source is seen as vital to ensure there is sufficient base load capacity when renewables do not generate enough for homes and businesses.

But, unlike south of the Border where new sites are in the pipeline, when the Torness plant in East Lothian shuts down in 2030 there will be no nuclear generation left in Scotland.

A new study by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has found: ‘From a technical perspective, Scotland has land areas with high potential for new nuclear development.’

Tom Greatrex, chief executive of the Nuclear Industry Association, said: ‘It’s time for a return to a common sense energy policy; if communities want to host new nuclear projects, the Scottish Government should allow them.’

Tory MSP Liam Kerr MSP said: ‘Nuclear is the critical piece of the jigsaw that would protect our energy security and help cut bills for hard-pressed Scots.’

But SNP energy minister Stephen Gethins said: ‘This UK Government report simply does not demonstrate that nuclear is the right choice for Scotland.’