Europe’s energy landscape is at a crossroads, and the recent Fusion for Energy (F4E) Roundtable in Barcelona has underscored the urgency of charting a bold path forward. With the continent importing 60% of its energy at a cost of €1bn per day, the need to reduce dependence on third countries and fossil fuels is more pressing than ever. Fusion energy, with its promise of safe, unlimited, and clean power, is emerging as a critical piece of the puzzle.
Europe has long been at the forefront of fusion research, and recent milestones in its flagship projects demonstrate the continent’s prowess in this field. The completion of key components for ITER, the world’s largest fusion experiment, and the successful operation of JT-60SA, the world’s largest tokamak, are testaments to Europe’s technological capabilities. However, the global race for fusion is accelerating, with countries like the United States and China ramping up investments and fusion start-ups emerging in the market. To maintain its competitive edge, Europe must act swiftly and strategically.
The F4E Roundtable brought together over 200 representatives from EU policy, industry, SMEs, start-ups, and laboratories to discuss Europe’s fusion ambitions. The timing was opportune, coinciding with the European Commission’s launch of its first-ever consultation for an EU-wide fusion strategy. Participants were asked to consider whether Europe is ready to harness the potential of fusion energy, whether it has the technology, supply chain, and skills, and how it can take the lead in this race.
Marc Lachaise, Director of Fusion for Energy, emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan, stating, “The fusion energy landscape is evolving rapidly. If we are to fend off competition from other regions, we need a comprehensive plan, and we need it now.” MEP Christophe Grudler echoed this sentiment, reminding participants of Europe’s scientific legacy and skilled workforce, and urging them to act now with a strategy to match their ambition.
The roundtable discussions highlighted the need for Europe to build on its scientific legacy and pave the way to commercialization. Participants insisted that ITER is not the endpoint but a point of departure for this exciting technological journey. Europe needs more projects to run in parallel to cover technological gaps and keep the supply chain engaged. This continuity is vital to consolidate a competitive industry and shape a mature fusion market.
The panellists pointed out that the EU’s future fusion strategy should define all the needs and plan the instruments to tackle them, including public-private partnerships. Ultimately, the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework (2028-2034) will be critical to sustain Europe’s potential in the global race.
Recognizing fusion as a key technology in a vibrant ecosystem was the starting point of the discussion. F4E has successfully involved in ITER more than 2,700 companies and at least 75 R&D organisations, as part of Europe’s contribution. An external study calculated that the contracts awarded by F4E in 2008-2017 resulted in more than 400 new technologies, tools and processes, while generating at least 20 start-ups and joint ventures. This investment is delivering tangible benefits by stimulating innovation, generating technology transfers, and positioning Europe at the forefront with the support of a competitive fusion supply chain.
To keep its lead, Europe must scale up its industrial readiness; otherwise, it risks falling behind. The F4E Roundtable has set the stage for a robust and forward-looking fusion strategy that can secure Europe’s energy future and solidify its position as a global leader in this transformative technology. The time to act is now, and the stakes could not be higher.