A fusion energy spinout based in Oxfordshire is targeting the next generation of high-power microwave technology after securing new early-stage funding.
MuWave, a recent spinout from the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), has raised £450,000 from the UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund (UKI2S) to develop and commercialise high-power microwave products in the UK.
The investment, alongside a spinout agreement with UKAEA, will accelerate MuWave’s growth plans, support the development of next-generation microwave sources known as gyrotrons, and help the company scale towards global export markets.
High-power microwave technology plays a critical role in commercial fusion energy, where electromagnetic waves are used to heat plasma to temperatures hotter than the sun. The technology also has applications beyond fusion, including satellite communications, radar systems, geothermal drilling and medical imaging.
Founded in 2023 by a team of UKAEA engineers with specialist expertise in microwave and industrial technologies, MuWave’s creation supports UKAEA’s wider strategy to translate fusion research into commercial opportunities that deliver long-term economic and industrial value.
STEP Fusion, the UK’s prototype fusion power plant, is expected to rely on high-powered microwave technology for its heating systems.
Research and development linked to STEP Fusion generated several ideas to improve existing microwave systems. These were progressed by UKAEA through patent protection and proof-of-concept development before forming the basis of the technology now being commercialised by MuWave.
Steven Craig, Co-founder at MuWave, said:
“Finalising the spinout agreement with UKAEA marks a pivotal moment for us. It’s a strong endorsement of the innovation we’ve developed and the commercial potential it holds. We’re proud to be taking this research from UKAEA into the UK fusion sector and beyond, where it can start making a real difference.”
Helen Webster, Co-founder at MuWave, added:
“Securing our initial funding is a huge milestone for us. It validates the problem we’re solving and the passion behind our solution. We’re incredibly grateful to UKI2S for believing in our vision and excited to use this momentum to build something truly impactful.”
Heather Lewtas, Chief Development Officer at UKAEA, said the organisation was pleased to support the spinout’s expansion:
“UKAEA’s world-leading science and innovation is creating jobs and economic opportunities in the UK, and we are very pleased to support MuWave in its expansion.
“UKAEA is leading the development of fusion energy and – crucially – maximising both the scientific and economic benefit to the UK. The world-leading innovation taking place while we solve fusion challenges leads to technology licensing, industry collaborations and spinout companies like MuWave. This all contributes to securing value for the UK economy.”
Mark White, Investment Lead for the Fusion Portfolio at UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund (UKI2S), managed by Future Planet Capital, said:
“By supporting MuWave at this early stage, we’re showing how deep science knowhow can be transformed into economic success and impact that reaches beyond the specialist world of fusion.
“This is exactly the kind of deep-tech spinout UKI2S exists to back – turning national capability into long-term economic and industrial impact.”
In addition to product development, MuWave also provides consultancy services to both fusion and non-fusion organisations as it continues to expand its commercial offering.
