12-04-2025
Fusion energy firm to collaborate on research
A Yarnton-based technology company has agreed to collaborate on research to advance fusion energy.
Frazer-Nash Consultancy and First Light Fusion have signed a non-exclusive letter of understanding to embark on a multi-year collaboration.
The aim is to develop advanced engineering solutions, accelerate innovation, and improve the commercial viability of fusion energy for the global market.
Fusion has the potential to provide a near-limitless, safe, secure, and clean source of carbon-free energy.
The government has acknowledged the importance of unlocking this potential by announcing a £410 million investment to accelerate the development of fusion energy and support the UK fusion energy sector during the 2020s.
Frazer-Nash will contribute its expertise in complex engineering and systems development to support First Light Fusion's new business strategy.
First Light Fusion will work alongside Frazer-Nash Consultancy (Image: First Light Fusion) Launched in February, this strategy focuses on partnering with businesses that can leverage its research facilities and technological expertise.
The collaboration will focus on delivering critical engineering solutions, developing new technical capabilities, and nurturing industry partnerships to strengthen the fusion supply chain and innovation network.
Nial Greeves, director of energy and infrastructure at Frazer-Nash Consultancy, said: "Under this collaboration, Frazer-Nash is taking a further step forward towards developing new technologies that will benefit the global energy market.
"This will see Frazer-Nash applying its expertise in technical and strategic consulting and capability in advanced engineering solutions to support the pathway to realising a commercial inertial confinement fusion energy device.
"First Light Fusion has an unparalleled reputation in its sector for spearheading world-leading technological advancements in the field of fusion.
"This, combined with Frazer-Nash's own track record of solving some of the most complex engineering challenges presents an exciting opportunity to contribute to one of the most promising fields in clean energy.
"We look forward to applying our expertise to help drive innovation in fusion and support the development of a robust technology ecosystem."
Mark Thomas, CEO of First Light Fusion, added: "At First Light Fusion, technical innovation and cooperation is integral to realising our mission to make fusion energy possible.
"This collaboration with Frazer-Nash reflects our commitment to working with the best engineering minds in the industry in pursuit of this goal.
"The collaboration will strengthen our development pipeline and provide valuable technical insight as we advance our fusion energy programme.
"Frazer-Nash Consultancy has a long-standing reputation for delivering high-value engineering solutions across energy, defence, and advanced technology sectors.
"The firm's experience in complex systems engineering, computational modelling, and materials science makes it an excellent collaborator for our business, and I am excited to get started."
