UK Industrial Fusion Solutions, which is set to be renamed UK Fusion Energy, has appointed a consortium known as ILIOS as its construction partner for the STEP fusion programme at the former West Burton power station site in Nottinghamshire.
The £200 million contract marks a significant step forward in plans to transform the site into a prototype fusion energy plant, as the programme moves from its planning phase into delivery. The announcement follows the publication of the Government’s new fusion strategy by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, which sets out the UK’s long-term approach to developing fusion energy.
ILIOS is a consortium led by a joint venture between Kier and Nuvia, supported by AECOM, AL_A Architects and Turner & Townsend. The group has been selected following a procurement process, with experience across major infrastructure, nuclear engineering, and complex scientific and energy facilities cited as key factors in the decision.
The STEP programme, which aims to develop a prototype fusion plant capable of generating low-carbon energy, is being delivered at the West Burton site in Bassetlaw. The organisation leading the project is also undergoing a name change to UK Fusion Energy Ltd, reflecting what it describes as a shift towards delivering the plant and supporting future commercial fusion developments.
Paul Methven, chief executive of UK Industrial Fusion Solutions and responsible officer for the STEP programme, said the appointment marked a “significant milestone” as the project moves into its next phase. He said the consortium’s experience in large-scale infrastructure and safety-critical engineering would support the transformation of the site into a centre for fusion innovation.
The construction partner will be responsible for all aspects of the build, including acting as principal design and build contractor, managing enabling works, coordinating engineering and infrastructure, and overseeing supply chains and logistics. The programme is expected to continue through to a planned operational date in 2040.
Local leaders have also highlighted the potential economic impact of the project. Councillor Julie Leigh, leader of Bassetlaw District Council, said the development could help position the district as a national centre for clean energy. She said the programme could support up to 10,000 jobs over time, with as many as 8,000 construction roles expected at peak activity on the West Burton site.
She added that the project, alongside the wider Trent Supercluster initiative, could create opportunities for local businesses and residents, contributing to long-term economic growth in the region.
The Government has framed fusion energy as part of its broader strategy to strengthen energy security and support the transition to low-carbon energy sources. Science minister Lord Vallance said investment in fusion would support innovation, skills development and future employment across the sector.
ILIOS programme director Simon Matthews said the consortium would support the delivery of the project and contribute to the development of a UK-based fusion supply chain, with a focus on energy resilience and decarbonisation.
The STEP programme is intended to demonstrate the viability of fusion energy technology at scale, with the West Burton site identified as a key location for the UK’s ambitions in this field. Further detailed design and construction work is expected to progress in the coming years as the project advances towards its target completion date.
