UK and US announce first joint project in fusion energy innovation  

A major project to help develop cutting-edge fusion energy has been agreed between the US and UK – in partnership with UK based company Tokamak Energy – boosting UK’s mission to become a clean energy superpower.

This first-of-its-kind project between both governments will be backed by £40.5 million to advance lithium research – driving progress towards commercialising fusion energy, a technology that could generate a near unlimited supply of clean electricity for families and businesses.

Fusion works by combining two forms of hydrogen and heating them at extreme temperatures, releasing vast amounts of energy. The project leverages funding from the US into UK supply chains and growth of high-quality jobs.

The project will start in 2025 at Tokamak Energy’s Oxfordshire facility. It will focus on enhancing the efficiency and durability of plasma-facing components – a critical challenge in unlocking fusion’s potential.

This is the first joint project since the UK and US announced their fusion energy partnership in November 2023. It underscores the UK’s leadership in fostering public-private collaboration to accelerate fusion energy development – a technology poised to revolutionise clean energy.

Climate Minister Kerry McCarthy said: “The UK and US are world leaders in the development of fusion energy and I’m delighted that both sides are collaborating to accelerate progress, which will help deliver new jobs across the country, grow our economy and make us more energy secure.

“This project represents a bold step forward in the global race to commercialise fusion. By working with our international partners and the private sector, we are paving the way for a future of clean, limitless energy.”

Dr. Geraldine Richmond, Under Secretary for Science and Innovation at the US Department of Energy said: “This represents a huge leverage opportunity for advancing fusion science and technology.

“These new investments will strengthen our partnerships with the private sector and our international allies. Each partner stands to gain significantly more than the funds committed.”

Tokamak Energy CEO Warrick Matthews said: “Tokamak Energy is thrilled to be involved in this exciting new public private partnership.

“Our ST40 facility in Oxfordshire is the world’s highest magnetic field spherical tokamak and the results of this mission will help accelerate progress on both sides of the Atlantic.”