SCOTLAND will escape becoming a nuclear dumping ground following a UK energy review.

The study, due out today, will back recommendations by experts to allow storage of radioactive waste only where communities want it.

It is understood Cumbria, where Sellafield nuclear power station is sited, is the only area set to bid for a new radioactive dump.

The review, expected to be published by Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling, will say Britain needs a new generation of nuclear power stations as part of a mix of energy supplies.

But Scotland is unlikely to be the site of any new nuclear plants - partly because firms will shy away from the extra cost of building in remote areas.

The two main Scots nuclear power stations - Hunterston B in Ayshire and Torness in East Lothian - may be extended if operators British Energy say that is viable.

Hunterston is due to close in 2011.

Bosses will decide in 2008 whether it is worth adding five years to its life.

Torness is due to shut in 2023. Up to 10 years could be added to its life-span.

Waste from the plants, which produce a third of Scotland's power, will continue to be dealt with at Sellafield. A new nuclear waste storage facility would bring extra jobs.

But even that bonus would not create enough local support in places near Scots plants - such as Dounreay, Caithness, or Chapelcross, Dumfriesshire - for them to bid.

However, Government sources said the review would not lead to Scots job losses.

First Minister Jack McConnell will be pleased by the review's outcome.

It means Scotland will be free to pursue his ambition of turning the country into a world leader in wind and wave power.

On Monday, the Executive will unveil proposed changes to planning policy designed to encourage firms to invest in windfarms.

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