UK scientists' new facility to boost fusion effort for clean energy goal

UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) researchers have launched a new facility named ELSA at their Fusion Technology Facility in South Yorkshire to advance fusion energy research. ELSA simulates extreme cryogenic temperatures similar to those inside fusion reactors to test the durability and electrical resistance of remountable joints (RMJs), which are essential components in the toroidal field coils of tokamaks. These RMJs allow rapid maintenance access during plant operations and are critical to the success of the UK’s Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) programme, a prototype fusion power plant planned for West Burton with a target operational date of 2040. The facility focuses on testing high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnet technologies, aiming to achieve ultra-low electrical resistance to reduce energy consumption and operational costs, thereby supporting the commercial viability of fusion energy. UKAEA engineers emphasize that ELSA’s location near STEP’s site and advanced manufacturing hubs will accelerate development of these critical technologies. The STEP project is expected