In the global race to commercialize fusion energy, Europe is positioning itself as a formidable contender, but the path is fraught with challenges that demand bold action and strategic collaboration. Milena Roveda, Chair of the European Fusion Association (EFA), is at the forefront of this effort, advocating for a unified European approach to make fusion a commercial reality. The EFA, an international, Brussels-based non-profit, brings together over 45 leading European companies across the fusion value chain, all united under the banner of accelerating fusion development.
Roveda emphasizes the critical role of collaboration in this endeavor. “The challenge of making industrial-scale fusion powerplants is too big for one country or company to achieve alone,” she asserts. The EFA is not just about advocacy; it’s about taking real action to derisk investment and enable public-private partnerships that can drive fusion from the lab to the grid. This industry-wide collaboration on science, financing, and policymaking is essential to turn Europe’s fusion ambitions into a commercial reality.
One of the EFA’s key focuses is getting the right regulation in place to crowd investment into European fusion. Roveda is clear about the need for tailored regulation that recognizes the differences between fusion and fission. “Having tailored regulation for fusion is essential to make sure the sector is not overburdened in a way that drives up costs and stifles innovation,” she states. The EFA is working to ensure that regulation is fit for purpose, leveraging the expertise across its membership to advocate for clear, supportive policies.
The EFA’s priorities align closely with the broader European fusion goals, but Roveda highlights a significant challenge: the lack of a coherent Fusion Strategy from the European Commission. “Without this clear roadmap from the Commission, the industry must pave its own path forward,” she explains. This is where the EFA comes in, creating a platform for collaboration, advocacy, and action among leading European fusion companies.
Looking ahead, Roveda identifies several major challenges facing Europe’s fusion sector. One is the risk of deindustrialization and the shrinking EU workforce. “Europe has the essential fusion skills and expertise spanning across the entire value chain,” she notes, but without targeted interventions, these skills could move to other competing markets. The EFA is focused on retaining these skills and growing Europe’s future fusion workforce.
Another challenge is capital. Currently, only 11% of the $7bn of private capital going into fusion is flowing into Europe. Roveda points to the need for proper regulation to support the growth of public-private partnerships and protect the intellectual property of innovative fusion technology developers. “With the proper regulation, protection of IP, and a system that encourages public-private partnerships, Europe can accelerate its approach and compete with other world powers in the race to achieving fusion,” she asserts.
The EFA’s work is set to shape the development of Europe’s fusion sector in significant ways. By fostering collaboration, advocating for supportive policies, and taking real action to derisk investment, the EFA is helping to create a more competitive and innovative fusion landscape in Europe. As Roveda puts it, “We are advocating for bold political decision making and innovative policy to turn scientific progress in fusion into a commercial reality.” This is not just about keeping pace with the US and China; it’s about leading the way in the global fusion race. The EFA’s efforts are a call to action for European policymakers, investors, and industry leaders to come together and make fusion a reality for Europe. The stakes are high, but with the right strategies and collaborations, Europe can solidify its position as a global fusion leader.