Minister for Nuclear and Networks has announced the appointment of Paul Methven to deliver STEP, a prototype fusion energy plant that is to be built at West Burton, Nottinghamshire.

Mr Methven will lead the STEP programme as the inaugural CEO of UK Industrial Fusion Solutions (UKIFS) which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA).

The STEP programme intends to lead the way for the commercialisation of fusion energy and the potential development of fusion powerplants around the world in the future.

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Fusion that is based on the same processes that power the sun and stars, has the potential to safely deliver sustainable, low carbon energy for generations to come.

Minister for Nuclear and Networks, Andrew Bowie, said: "The STEP programme is at the heart of our Fusion Strategy – key to making the potential of new fusion energy a commercial reality, and to drive economic growth.

"Paul Methven will bring a wealth of experience to the programme, working to deliver a fusion reactor by 2040 and to cement the UK’s place at the front of the global race to develop this cutting-edge technology."

Professor David Gann CBE, Chair of UKIFS, said: "The appointment of the inaugural CEO for UKIFS marks an important milestone as we strive to generate electricity from fusion, which will provide a huge economic opportunity for the UK.

"I look forward to working closely with Paul and the STEP team to ensure the programme stimulates a vibrant industrial base alongside the development of future fusion skills and the global deployment of fusion energy."