Environmental & Energy

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Biodiversity Net Gain for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects - Consultation Outcome

DEFRA has published the outcome of its consultation on implementing biodiversity net gain (BNG) for nationally significant infrastructure projects (NSIPs), receiving 10,403 responses including 10,143 from an RSPB campaign. The government confirmed it will implement a mandatory BNG framework for NSIPs from November 2026, requiring major infrastructure developments to leave biodiversity in a measurably better state than before development.

333 Cases of Bluetongue Reported in Great Britain During 2025-2026 Season

DEFRA and APHA report 333 total bluetongue cases in Great Britain during the 2025-2026 season (since 1 July 2025), comprising 310 cases in England and 23 cases in Wales, with no cases in Scotland. Cases include multiple serotypes: BTV-3 (dominant), BTV-8, and co-infections. Latest confirmed cases involve calves born with neurological signs including blindness, star gazing, and convulsions.

Biodiversity Net Gain Minor Medium Brownfield Development Outcome

DEFRA has published the outcome of its consultation on improving Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) implementation for minor, medium and brownfield development. The consultation received 25,024 responses including campaign submissions from Wildlife Trust and RSPB. The government will introduce secondary legislation in 2026 to implement the proposed changes while the current BNG requirement remains in force. Developers should continue following existing BNG guidance and legislation.