TAE Technologies' neutral beam - Image credit: TAE Technologies
TAE Technologies and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) have announced a new partnership aimed at commercializing advanced fusion technology. This collaboration will establish a joint venture named TAE Beam UK, which will focus on developing neutral beams for fusion applications and adapting this technology for various non-fusion sectors, including cancer therapy and food safety.
The agreement was revealed on December 2, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the fusion energy landscape. TAE Technologies, a leader in private fusion energy with over 25 years of experience, will work alongside UKAEA, the UK’s national fusion laboratory with a rich history in fusion research spanning over 40 years.
Advancing Fusion and Beyond
The primary goal of TAE Beam UK is to leverage the scientific expertise and commercialization capabilities of both organizations to develop and manufacture neutral beam technologies. Neutral beams are essential for maintaining plasma stability in fusion reactors, a critical requirement for producing electricity through fusion. TAE Technologies has pioneered the use of neutral beams in its fusion machine, employing eight powerful beams that create high-energy hydrogen atoms to heat and stabilize the plasma.
This innovative approach not only enhances the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of fusion reactors but also positions TAE as a leader in the field. The technology’s adaptability will also see it utilized in TAE’s medical subsidiary, TAE Life Sciences, which focuses on non-invasive cancer treatments.
The new venture will operate from UKAEA’s Culham Campus in Oxfordshire, UK, establishing the region as a pivotal hub for fusion technology. This project is expected to create numerous high-skilled jobs and strengthen the local economy, while also contributing to the global fusion supply chain.
Investment and Economic Impact
UKAEA has committed an equity investment of £5.6 million into TAE Beam UK. This funding will support the engagement of top scientists and the development of cutting-edge technology. TAE Technologies will back the project with its own substantial investment, ensuring that the joint venture is well-equipped to deliver results.
The timeline for the initial phase of the project aims to produce the first short-pulse beams within 18 to 24 months of the work commencing, subject to the necessary regulatory approvals. This rapid development is critical, as both organizations emphasize the importance of advancing fusion technology to meet future energy demands.
Statements from key stakeholders highlight the significance of this partnership. Michl Binderbauer, CEO of TAE Technologies, noted, “The UK’s world-class scientific talent and unwavering commitment to commercializing fusion energy make the country an ideal partner.” He emphasized the collaboration’s potential to build vital infrastructure for the fusion supply chain.
Similarly, Tim Bestwick, CEO of UKAEA, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that it would not only foster innovation but also create jobs and growth in the UK.
The joint venture aligns with broader efforts to establish the US-UK partnership in delivering clean, abundant fusion energy, particularly as both countries recognize fusion’s potential to support advancements in various sectors, including artificial intelligence.
This collaboration showcases the commitment of both TAE Technologies and UKAEA to push the boundaries of fusion technology while driving economic growth and scientific excellence. The fusion industry is poised for significant advancements, making this partnership a noteworthy development in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.
