Nuclear expertise
NRS Dounreay plays a pivotal role in the Caithness economy, both as one of the region’s largest employers and as a key driver of local business growth. The site is one of only two category 1 sites managed by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (the other being Sellafield in Cumbria) and is central to Nuclear Restoration Services’ (NRS) mission. Programme learning developed at Dounreay helps underpin the ability to safely, securely and sustainably decommission the wider UK nuclear estate and internationally. The knowledge, skills, and innovation generated here not only advance national decommissioning capability but also sustain high-value employment in the far north of Scotland.
Key figures
North Highland is leading the transition to a low carbon economy.
Annual budget
In 2023–24, £117 million of this spend flowed through the supply chain, with £64 million directed to Caithness-owned or locally resourced companies.
Employees
With 95% living in the local area.
Driving the northern economy
Beyond its core mission, NRS Dounreay demonstrates a strong commitment to wider community development. Its socio-economic grant funding programme provides direct support to initiatives that strengthen the local economy, including Focus North. By leveraging additional public and private matched funding, these grants maximise impact, enabling projects that improve infrastructure, promote innovation, and attract new investment to the region.
Related projects
Apprenticeships
The NDA and NRS Dounreay provide substantial funds for STEM education and apprenticeships in the north.
Net Zero Accelerator
NRS Dounreay is reducing its own supply chain emissions by funding 1-2-1 carbon reduction training for local SMEs.
Supply chain development
NRS Dounreay supports a diverse supply chain, with more than £64m of its procurement spend going to local businesses.
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