The British inertial fusion energy firm First Light Fusion recently welcomed a delegation from the Japanese government, led by State Minister Soichiro Imaeda from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT).
This visit underscores the ongoing efforts by the UK and Japan to enhance cooperation in commercial fusion energy research.
Roundtable Discussions and Facility Tour
On July 23, the Japanese delegation participated in a roundtable discussion hosted by First Light’s Chief Financial Officer, David Bryon, alongside other senior board members.
This meeting was succeeded by a comprehensive tour of First Light’s technological facilities, including Machine 3, Europe’s largest pulsed power facility.
Deepening Partnership in Fusion Commercialization
First Light stated that this meeting at its Oxford headquarters marks another step in the growing partnership between the UK and Japan, aiming to accelerate the commercialization of fusion energy in both private and public sectors.
Understanding Nuclear Fusion
Nuclear fusion involves the combination of two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, resulting in the release of substantial energy.
First Light focuses on a type of inertial confinement fusion known as projectile fusion, which achieves the necessary extreme conditions by compressing a fusion fuel target with a high-speed projectile.
This method diverges from other fusion techniques that rely on energy-intensive lasers or magnets.
Strategic Technological Partnerships
First Light plans to leverage its unique amplifier technology through collaborations with organizations that possess driver capabilities and nuclear engineering firms.
The company believes this strategy offers the most direct and efficient path to achieving commercial fusion energy. With Japan’s exceptional expertise in nuclear engineering, it is seen as a vital partner in this endeavor.
Japan’s Fusion Energy Innovation Strategy
In April last year, Japan introduced its Fusion Energy Innovation Strategy, a comprehensive plan to advance fusion energy as a next-generation energy source.
Following significant technological advancements, including the USA’s National Ignition Facility’s demonstration of inertial fusion energy ignition in December 2022, Japan has prioritized fusion research within its future energy framework.
Strengthening UK-Japan Fusion Cooperation
Part of Japan’s strategy includes enhanced collaboration with the UK, a global leader in fusion technology.
In May, First Light attended a British Embassy event in Tokyo that brought together the fusion industries and government representatives from both countries.
Expressions of Support and Future Goals
David Bryon expressed enthusiasm for the visit, stating, “We are thrilled to host State Minister Soichiro Imaeda and his team at First Light Fusion. Japan is leading in the global fusion race by implementing a national strategy to attract private investment, supporting inertial fusion energy, and fostering crucial international collaboration.
“We were pleased to showcase our technological advancements and unique amplifier technology, which are essential for achieving scalable, commercially viable fusion energy. This progress is integral to contributing to a global clean energy mix and reaching our mutual 2050 net-zero targets.”