On Wednesday, the Fusion Energy APPG hosted a parliamentary roundtable on Making the UK an Attractive Destination for Foreign Investment into Fusion Energy, bringing together Parliamentarians, industry representatives and government officials to discuss how the UK can strengthen its position as a global hub for fusion energy investment.
Chaired by Lord Ravensdale, the discussion focused on the rapid growth of private investment in fusion energy and the opportunities this presents for the UK. Participants explored how the Government, industry and investors can work together to ensure the UK remains an attractive destination for fusion companies seeking to commercialise their technologies.
The APPG was delighted to welcome Andrew Proffitt (Senior Director – Regulatory Policy, Helion Energy), Elisabeth Siegel (Policy & Global Affairs Lead, TAE Technologies), Anthony Harbridge (Chief Operating Officer, Type One Energy) and David Sandford (Deputy Director – Fusion Energy, DESNZ).
A central theme throughout the discussion was the growing momentum behind fusion energy globally. Speakers noted that private investment in fusion has reached an estimated $10–15 billion, reflecting increasing confidence in the sector’s commercial future. Panellists agreed that the UK is well positioned to benefit from this momentum, supported by world-leading research capabilities, a strong industrial base and the Government’s recently published Fusion Strategy.
Speakers also highlighted the importance of the UK’s fusion-specific regulatory framework, which was widely viewed as a significant competitive advantage. The UK’s decision to regulate fusion separately from fission was described as a world-leading step that has helped provide certainty for companies and investors looking to deploy fusion technologies.
The discussion also examined the UK’s broader investment offer. Panellists pointed to the country’s strengths in research and development, finance, insurance, engineering capability and international partnerships as important factors that continue to attract interest from global fusion companies. The Government’s forthcoming Fusion Investment Prospectus was highlighted as an opportunity to further showcase the UK’s strengths and attract international investment.
At the same time, speakers stressed that international competition is increasing rapidly. Countries including the United States, Germany, Japan and China are all positioning themselves as leading destinations for fusion development and investment. While panellists agreed that the UK retains significant advantages, they emphasised the need for continued action to maintain the UK’s leadership position.
