Construction partner JV announced for the pioneering STEP Fusion energy programme
ILIOS, a consortium led by a Kier/ Nuvia joint venture with AECOM, architects AL_A and Turner & Townsend providing specialist support, has been appointed by UK Fusion Energy to deliver the pioneering STEP fusion programme.
The appointment covers the design and build of a world leading prototype fusion power plant in the Midlands and forms part of a wider programme with future opportunities valued at up to £10bn.
STEP Fusion, sponsored by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), is the UK’s flagship fusion energy programme, aiming to provide a sustainable energy source for everyday life, marking a major milestone in the transition to low carbon energy.
The expertise brought by the construction partner will support the government’s aims to deliver on the long-term potential offered by fusion energy.
Led by UK Fusion Energy (previously known as UK Industrial Fusion Solutions), a wholly owned subsidiary of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), the programme aims to deliver a commercially viable fusion power plant at West Burton in Nottinghamshire, by 2040.
The consortium brings extensive experience from major national infrastructure, high hazard civil engineering, nuclear sector delivery, complex scientific and energy facilities, large programme and cost and commercial management and worldclass design for innovation environments.
It will be responsible for the design and construction of all buildings, infrastructure and facilities on the STEP site as well as supporting the constructability and interface of the wider power plant.
Works will include site management, design, construction, programme planning, supply chain management, progress monitoring, project controls and constructability assurance, ensuring all activities are fully coordinated with project stakeholders and compliant with all relevant requirements and standards.
At its peak, construction at West Burton will support up to 8,000 onsite jobs, creating new opportunities for local residents and businesses as well as employment and training opportunities, including apprenticeships and helping to anchor long-term economic growth.
Alan Sinclair, Director and Head of Energy and Natural Resources, UK, at Turner & Townsend said:
“We’re proud to join our partners in supporting UK Fusion Energy’s pioneering STEP programme. This appointment represents a significant milestone in advancing fusion energy and delivering a sustainable future.”
Our focus will be on providing a suite of robust programme delivery services that enable collaboration, manage complexity and keep this world leading initiative on track.
“Together, we’re helping to turn the vision of clean, limitless energy into reality.”
Paul Methven, CEO of UK Fusion Energy Limited, said:
“The appointment of ILIOS as our Construction Partner marks a significant milestone for the STEP Programme.”
Their combined experience in major infrastructure, safety critical engineering and complex site transformation gives us real confidence as we move from planning into delivery.
“This partnership will help ensure that West Burton becomes a leading centre of fusion innovation and a cornerstone of the UK’s future clean energy landscape.”
This project builds on the UK’s fusion research and development strategy and underlines the government’s commitment to long-term energy security and decarbonisation.
Together, UK Fusion Energy and its partners aim to establish the foundations of a fusion energy sector capable of meeting high energy demands in the second half of this century.
