UK fusion for energy strategy

Issue date: 18^th February 2010

In July 2009, as part of the RCUK Energy Programme, STFC and EPSRC set up a project to address a series of interrelated fusion issues that affected both councils.

In magnetic confinement fusion (MCF) the issues included funding levels for JET and the MAST upgrade. In inertial confinement fusion (ICF) the focus was on the HiPER project and its role in the international pathway to inertial fusion as an energy source. Underpinning all of this was the need for a long term UK vision for fusion in the international context. To help with the development of this vision, an Expert Group, chaired by Professor Keith Burnett, was convened. The key points of the new strategy, which has been approved by EPSRC and STFC Councils, are now available alongside the Expert Group’s vision document.

EPSRC and STFC would like to thank members of the Expert Group, colleagues at Culham and RAL, the expert witnesses, project board members and those who helped with the work packages.

Key Points of STFC and EPSRC’s Fusion for Energy Strategy (PDF 32KB)

EPSRC and STFC Councils have agreed a revised strategy for fusion for energy research, this document lists the key points.e agreed a revised strategy for fusion for energy research, this document lists the key points.

A 20-year Vision for the UK Contribution to Fusion as an Energy Source (PDF 216KB)

An Expert Group, chaired by Professor Keith Burnett, was convened as a result of of the RCUK Energy Programme, STFC and EPSRC set up project to address a series of interrelated fusion issues that affected both councils.

The science and engineering research challenges ahead to realise fusion as a commercial energy source are major and the timescales are long and uncertain. Fusion is likely to contribute to energy systems after 2050. The potential of fusion energy to contribute as a major component of the future global energy system is sufficiently large that it should be pursued in the UK; this is an area of international excellence in terms of research and skilled people in the UK which is contributing to a global challenge. It needs continued funding for the long term, even when difficult financial choices are being made.