On Monday 17th November at 3pm-4pm, the Fusion Energy APPG hosted a parliamentary event exploring how STEP Fusion will unlock a range of benefits for the East Midlands and the UK. STEP Fusion is a world-leading, government-backed programme that will deliver the UK’s first prototype fusion power plant at West Burton, Nottinghamshire by 2040.
Speakers included:
- Jo White, MP for Bassetlaw (Chair)
- Paul Methven, CEO & Senior Responsible Owner of STEP Programme
- Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands
Discussion summary
- Jo White introduced the session and emphasised the importance of fusion energy for energy production but also for job creation.
- Paul spoke about the technology behind STEP Fusion as well as the significant number of benefits it is expected to bring to the region and the UK. Paul said that with strong Government support, the programme has moved from a research programme to a delivery programme, with STEP Fusion currently in a detailed engineering process.
- Paul provided an overview of the latest developments in fusion energy, with fusion energy receiving notable mentions in the Industrial Strategy and fusion energy receiving significant Government funding in the Spending Review. Paul mentioned the upcoming Fusion Strategy which will seek to bolster the UK’s leadership in fusion.
- Claire emphasised the opportunity that STEP Fusion represents for the region, noting that STEP Fusion builds on the heritage of the region and that STEP Fusion is about creating a sense of future. Claire mentioned the significant super cluster in the East Midlands around clean energy, which STEP Fusion underpins. Claire also noted that STEP Fusion has cross-party and cross-authority support, with all parties working together to ensure that benefits were felt locally.
- Paul also noted that STEP Fusion will support the region’s wider manufacturing base through technology transfer, highlighting the benefits of fusion technology to other R&D such as AI and robotics.
- Paul and Claire discussed the long-term benefits of STEP Fusion. Paul said that the people who will be operating STEP Fusion have not yet been born yet, highlighting the skills pipeline that is needed for STEP. Claire agreed with Paul and also noted that STEP Fusion showcases the potential for a long skills pipeline in the region.
Following speaker contributions, attendees were invited to ask questions. Attendees asked about transport links in the region, how to ensure that benefits were felt across the wider East Midlands region and the Government’s support for fusion.