The UK is seeking to turn its long-standing strength in fusion research into a commercial and industrial fusion sector, with the government looking to build nuclear supply chains and attract investment around the emerging technology.
The push comes as the UK seeks to move beyond research and development and towards the construction of its first prototype fusion power plant at West Burton, Nottinghamshire.
The government has committed more than £2.5 billion over five years to fusion, including £1.3 billion for UK Fusion Energy to deliver the STEP programme in partnership with industry. A further £740 million is earmarked for research and development infrastructure and facilities.
DESNZ says the strategy places a particular focus on developing a UK-based supply chain capable of supporting the construction and operation of fusion plants, following more than 60 years of fusion research, public investment, a proportionate regulatory framework and a growing ecosystem of developers, national laboratories, engineering companies, specialist suppliers, universities and investors.
The plant is planned for the site of the former West Burton coal-fired power station, with construction expected to begin from 2030 and operations targeted for the 2040s.
Alongside the main project, the government is funding technologies intended to address some of the remaining challenges associated with fusion power.
Skills are also being identified as a key part of the industrial push, with £50 million allocated to fusion skills training for more than 2,000 people.
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