Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Consultation on Scope of Fusion Energy National Policy Statements

08 May 2024 · Department for Energy Security and Net Zero

Proposed by Claire Coutinho Con East Surrey

EnergyEnvironment

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • The Government is launching a consultation on the scope of the Fusion Energy National Policy Statement.
  • The consultation seeks views on high-level planning criteria for fusion energy facilities.
  • The aim is to support and regulate the development of fusion energy in England and Wales.

Issue summary

The statement addresses the launch of a consultation on the scope of the Fusion Energy National Policy Statement to support and regulate the development of fusion energy facilities.

Action requested

The Government is launching a consultation to seek views on the broad policy proposals for a Fusion Energy National Policy Statement, including high-level planning criteria. This process aims to provide clarity and streamline the regulatory environment for fusion energy development in England and Wales.

Key facts

  • The UK’s STEP programme seeks to develop and build a prototype fusion power plant by 2040.
  • Private fusion companies are quickly developing demonstrator facilities.
  • The Government published a response to the Fusion Regulation Green Paper in 2022, confirming a different regulatory framework for fusion compared to nuclear fission due to its lower hazard.
  • This consultation relates to powers under the Planning Act 2008 and system of Nationally Significant Infrastructure consenting in England and Wales.
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