Environmental & Energy

UKAEA Fusion Strategy 2026 to 2030

The UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) published its first strategy since 2024 when UK Fusion Energy Ltd was established as a subsidiary. The strategy outlines how UKAEA's National Fusion Laboratory will deliver foundational research, technology, and innovation to support the UK fusion sector through world-leading expertise. UKAEA invites thoughts and ideas from partners in the UK and internationally on this new strategic approach.

UKAEA and National College Launch CROSS Robotics Training Centre in Cumbria

UK Atomic Energy Authority and the National College for Nuclear and Clean Energy have launched CROSS (Cumbria Robotics Operations Skills Centre) in West Cumbria. The facility will provide hands-on robotics and automation training for the UK's nuclear and clean energy workforce. UKAEA has provided over £700,000 of robotics equipment through its FOSTER programme to support the training centre.

Global Fusion Guide for SMEs Launched

UKAEA and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero launched the Global Fusion Guide for SMEs on 14 April 2026. The guide provides UK businesses with practical steps to collaborate with and supply to fusion developers worldwide as the sector moves from laboratory research toward demonstration power plants. Over £100 billion is expected to flow into global fusion development between 2026 and 2035, with 68 private fusion companies currently operating alongside major public programmes. UK SMEs with capabilities in engineering, manufacturing, robotics, advanced materials, digital systems and specialist services are the primary audience. The guide aims to help businesses understand where opportunities are emerging and how to engage with the global fusion sector, including those with no prior fusion experience.

UKAEA Fusion Strategy 2026-2030, Targets, Economic Benefits

UKAEA launched its 2026-2030 organisational Strategy for the UK's national fusion laboratory, aligned with the UK Government's Fusion Strategy. The strategy sets 2030 objectives including supporting completion of STEP Fusion prototype detailed design, increasing UK companies in global fusion supply chains, completing research facilities at Culham Campus, and growing the fusion workforce. Fusion is projected as a multi-trillion pound global industry in the latter half of the century.

UK ETS Auctions and Secondary Market Participation Guide

DESNZ has published updated guidance on participating in UK Emissions Trading Scheme markets, including auction procedures and secondary market trading. The Auction Reserve Price was adjusted from £22 to £28 effective for the April 8, 2026 auction. Cost Containment Mechanism trigger prices and average monthly prices are updated regularly. The guidance provides background on UK ETS markets and links to related scheme participation information.

UKAEA Launches Fusion Diagnostics Centre of Excellence

UKAEA has launched the Diagnostics Innovation Centre of Excellence (DICE) at its Culham Campus in Oxfordshire to develop advanced measurement technology for fusion energy. The centre leverages decades of UK experience in fusion diagnostics from machines including JET and MAST Upgrade. DICE has already secured contracts worth over £10 million with 10 organisations and will serve as a hub for collaboration between UK industry, international fusion partners, and other sectors including medical research.

Contracts for Difference (CfD) Allocation Round 7: Subsidy Control Transparency Database Estimates

DESNZ has published estimates of subsidy amounts for Contracts for Difference Allocation Round 7 on the Subsidy Control Transparency Database. The estimates relate to renewable energy projects receiving CfD support. Developers and investors in CfD-funded projects should monitor these transparency estimates.

Retrofit System Reform Advisory Panel: Terms of Reference

The UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has established the Retrofit System Reform Advisory Panel to advise ministers on reforming consumer protection and oversight for home retrofit installations. The panel will focus on simplifying standards and protections, developing a redress system for substandard work, and supporting the retrofit supply chain. An April 2026 update added Chris Hewett, Chief Executive of Solar Energy UK, to the membership list.

Small Modular Reactor Programme Business Case Summary

DESNZ published a summary of the Small Modular Reactor (SMR) programme business case for Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N). The document provides a high-level outline of programme strategy, commercial approach, and expected economic and system benefits. Published April 15, 2026.

Biodiversity Net Gain Exemption for Brownfield Residential Development

DEFRA is consulting on a potential exemption from biodiversity net gain (BNG) requirements for certain residential developments on brownfield land in England. The consultation seeks views on whether an exemption should be introduced, what size thresholds should apply, and how brownfield residential development should be defined. The consultation closes at 11:59pm on 10 June 2026.