With a world-leading fusion research ecosystem, the UK is poised to be a global leader in commercial fusion – but must act now to attract the quickly growing industry as companies look to site first plants.
The UK government needs to act now to attract companies in order to take the lead in the global fusion industry, according to Fusion Industry Association policy report.
UK can lead £31 trillion Global Fusion Industry, but government needs to act now to attract fusion companies, says Fusion Industry Association.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced the United Kingdom’s Autumn Budget 2024 on October 30, outlining key provisions and missions for “Rebuilding Britain” and areas of targeted government support going forward. The budget notes a heavy emphasis on greater support for “Innovation,” including fusion energy.
As developers move closer to commercial fusion it is increasingly necessary to consider the wide array of enablers required to bring fusion power to the grid. The UK government’s consultation on proposed National Policy Statement EN8, ‘Fusion Energy’ is an important step forward for fusion development in the country. Not only will the policy help ensure a smooth and transparent assessment of future project proposals, it also signals – to developers, investors and consumers – that the UK government is today adopting measures to see fusion energy facilities come online.
The UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has published a scoping consultation on National Policy Statement EN8 – the policy statement which will guide the process for fusion facilities in the UK. Following the Energy Act 2023 confirmation that fusion facilities will be regulated separately from fission in the UK, the Fusion Energy NPS will provide further clarity on the fusion planning process for developers and communities – an important step in the development of the UK’s fusion sector.
Effective May 7, 2024, FIA has appointed Tris Denton to lead its ongoing activities in the UK.
On October 26, 2023, the UK’s Energy Act 2023 gained Royal Assent and was enacted to strengthen the UK’s long-term energy security and support affordable clean energy. The UK will become the first country to legislate for fusion regulation, which will foster the growth of the domestic fusion industry in support of the UK’s goal for a prototype fusion power plant by 2040.
Through the Agile Nations network, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Canada published initial suggestions for a multi-national fusion regulatory framework. The network, consisting of government representatives and technical experts, suggested recommendations on how to develop an appropriate regulatory framework for fusion energy facilities. The group recognized the importance and viability of fusion power as a global opportunity, and recommends that fusion regulations should be pro-innovation, risk-informed, and transparent.
The Fusion Industry Association welcomes the U.K. Government’s ambitious new programme for fusion development and commercialisation as an alternative to Euratom association.