Frontiers in Energy Innovations GmbH
FEInn
FEInn (Frontiers in Energy Innovations GmbH) is a pioneering consultancy driving innovation in sustainable nuclear fusion technologies.
ID: 280911396002-93
Lobbying Activity
Response to EU Fusion Strategy
24 Jun 2025
ITERs technical success should be strategically leveraged to consolidate European industrial capabilities and launch the next phase of fusion development: the design and construction of a pilot European Fusion Reactor. For this purpose, EU should translate ITER know-how into industrial capability, invest in complementary reactor-relevant infrastructure, and create programmes to adapt ITER technologies for commercial use. This effort should be supported by a coordinated innovation agenda, a European fusion skills strategy, and strengthened international influence through ITERs governance and partnerships. The pilot fusion reactor should be organised as a bold, centralised European initiative, comparable in ambition to a moonshot programme. It requires strong governance, a dedicated EU-level budget, and a clear timeline. International examples such as the UKs UKIFS (for STEP) and Chinas Fusion New Energy Co., Ltd. (for BEST) demonstrate the value of integrating research institutions, industry, and government in a single structure. In Europe, Fusion for Energy (F4E) could take the lead in coordinating this effort. F4E can bring together research institutions (represented by EUROfusion), the European supply industry (through an EU-backed fusion industry association), and the Member States. EUROfusion should be integrated into F4E as its dedicated research wing. In this role, EUROfusion would support ITER and the pilot fusion reactor by a coordinated experimental and theoretical research programme, and train future fusion professionals. Operating under the wings of F4E would enable greater accountability, transparency, and the ability to directly recruit skilled staff. The European fusion industry must also be strengthened. The current industrial landscape is fragmented, limiting its impact. A unified European fusion industry association should be established to provide a collective voice, coordinate with public stakeholders, and align capabilities with the goal of delivering a functional fusion reactor. To ensure public funding is used effectively, the EU should establish an independent assessment committee. This body should evaluate all existing fusion devices and approaches in Europe, including both magnetic and inertial confinement. Priority should be given to initiatives with a credible path and timeline to fusion electricity. While alternative and private-sector-led approaches are important, scattering resources too widely risks delaying results. A rigorous, criteria-based evaluation must guide strategic choices, focusing on maturity and scalability. A fit-for-purpose regulatory framework is urgently needed. It should reflect the unique safety profile of fusion devices and support innovation. The UKs recent regulatory model could serve as a starting point for an EU-wide framework. The EU should work with Member States, especially those with reactor experience to adapt this framework to national contexts. Clear, harmonised licensing criteria will accelerate reactor construction and provide legal certainty for investors, regulators, and host countries. Early engagement with national regulators and the creation of a European approach which is proportional, risk-informed, and aligned with international standards (IAEA, WENRA, ENSREG) will be essential. The Commission, through a reinforced F4E structure with EUROfusion as its research wing and supported by a unified industry association, should coordinate a transparent, criteria-based siting process for the future pilot reactor. A swift site decision will send a strong signal of political will and enable early planning for licensing, infrastructure, and workforce mobilisation. In conclusion, Europe is well positioned to lead the global fusion effort. By building on its strategic assets, including ITER, and establishing a coherent, industry-aligned path to constructing and operating a fusion reactor, the EU can deliver commercial fusion energy.
Read full responseMeeting with Ana Rita Lopes Ramos (Head of Unit Energy), Benoît Fourestie (Acting Head of Unit Energy)
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