News and events
Research Councils endorse CCFE fusion programme | 18/02/2010
Two UK Research Councils – EPSRC and STFC – recently held an independent review of UK fusion strategy. The aim of the review was to develop a long-term UK vision for fusion in an international context.
The findings of the review panel chaired by Professor Keith Burnett, and the strategy document 'A 20-year Vision for the UK Contribution to Fusion as an Energy Source' have now been issued at: http://www.epsrc.ac.uk/newsevents/news/2010/Pages/energystrategy.aspx
Among the key points:
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The Research Councils reiterated their support for fusion research. 'The potential of fusion energy to contribute as a major component of the future global energy system is sufficiently large that it should be pursued in the UK; this is an area of international excellence in terms of research and skilled people in the UK which is contributing to a global challenge. It needs continued funding for the long term, even when difficult financial choices are being made'.
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EPSRC will develop a long-term funding mechanism for magnetic confinement fusion, including support for the proposed upgrade of the MAST device at Culham. 'Through an upgraded MAST, the UK can play a leading role in the development of a Component Test Facility which may be important in reducing the risk for construction of the fusion demonstration reactor (DEMO), the step following ITER.'
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EPSRC will also seek agreement with EURATOM on long-term funding for JET, recognising its 'essential role in preparation for ITER'.
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The high standard of the CCFE programme was recognised. 'The UK has played an internationally leading role (in fusion development)...this has included the operation and exploitation of the world's leading fusion facility, JET, at the CCFE and the development of the spherical tokamak approach. UK expertise in tokamak operations, engineering, and fusion physics...will be essential to the success of ITER. This strength in facility operation is complemented by a leading experimental and theory programme, much of which is carried out in collaboration with universities and international partners.'
