EU Bets on Fusion for a Clean Energy Future
The EU’s Fusion Strategy aims to turn decades of research into clean, competitive energy for Europe.
What are your hopes and expectations for the proposed first-ever-EU wide Fusion Strategy, and in particular its role as sustainable and long-term solution to Europe’s energy needs?
Fusion is a crucial milestone on the path towards building a clean, independent, and sustainable Europe in terms of energy.
When I was Minister of Research in Italy, I had the honor of contributing to the European decision to localise the ITER project in Europe. We were competing with Japan, and securing ITER for Europe was not only a success for the EU and for Italy, but also for global cooperation. ITER is more than a scientific project – it is a symbol of collaboration between Europe, the US, China, Russia, Japan, and Korea.
Now, the challenge is to transform this vision into an industrial reality that can truly deliver sustainable energy for Europe.
Several major players – China, UK and the US – already have national fusion strategies in place. Is the EU playing catch-up here, or can we lead the race to commercial fusion?
Europe is not starting late. Thanks to ITER and projects like DEMO, we were among the first movers in fusion. The priority now is to convert this leadership into tangible results, turning science into market-ready solutions.
To achieve this, we need public-private partnerships, targeted investments, and a clear recognition of fusion as a pillar of EU energy policy. If we succeed, fusion can strengthen Europe’s energy independence and reduce costs for our industries, enhancing competitiveness.
Private investment is pouring into fusion startups outside Europe. What concrete steps will this strategy take to make the EU a serious magnet for fusion entrepreneurs and investors?
Europe must create a fertile ecosystem for innovation. This means using our existing tools – such as Horizon Europe and InvestEU – to channel investment into fusion and to help startups thrive.
If we support entrepreneurs and close the gap with other regions that are currently ahead in supporting fusion startups, Europe can become a true hub for fusion investment and innovation.
What needs to happen for fusion energy to become a core priority in EU policy frameworks, particularly in the next Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF 2027)?
The EU must clearly recognise fusion as a key technology for the clean energy transition. This recognition should be embedded in the Green Industrial Deal, with a dedicated budget line.
While renewables are vital, they are not sufficient on their own. Certain industries cannot fully decarbonise without new solutions. Fusion can provide the breakthrough needed, alongside technological neutrality, to achieve deep decarbonisation.
Fusion is often called clean and safe – but it still involves radioactive materials and public skepticism. How is the EU planning to strike the right balance between innovation and strict oversight?
Transparency is essential. Citizens and stakeholders need clear information about the safety and importance of fusion. It is indeed a clean technology, recognised as such even within the EU taxonomy, which includes nuclear.
By maintaining high standards of oversight and open communication, we can ensure that fusion advances responsibly, while contributing to Europe’s competitiveness and energy sovereignty.