NESOOFGEMDESNZ
feed

Fusion Energy: National Policy Statement Scoping

DESNZ·consultation·medium·8 May 2024·source document

This consultation is open for responses

Respond to this consultation

Summary

DESNZ begins scoping for a new Fusion Energy National Policy Statement to streamline planning consent for commercial fusion facilities. This is the first of two consultations, focusing on policy approach before drafting the actual NPS. The consultation runs for 8 weeks from May 2024.

Why it matters

Creates a dedicated planning route for fusion generation ahead of commercial deployment, potentially reducing consent timescales versus the current case-by-case approach. As such, this positions fusion as distinct from both nuclear and renewables in the planning system, though commercial fusion remains years away.

Key facts

  • First consultation on policy approach for Fusion Energy NPS
  • Applies to all commercial fusion facilities
  • Second formal consultation on draft NPS to follow
  • Published May 8, 2024

Areas affected

planningnucleargenerators

Related programmes

Clean Power 2030Net Zero
Memo

The purpose of this consultation is to begin the process towards designating a new Fusion Energy National Policy Statement, applicable to all commercial fusion facilities. This consultation focuses on the overall policy approach before a further formal consultation on the new draft Fusion Energy National Policy Statement. [Read the consultation documents on GOV.UK](https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/fusion-energy-facilities-new-national-policy-statement-and-proposals-on-siting).