A major new partnership between US-based TAE Technologies and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) is set to accelerate the commercialisation of advanced particle accelerator systems for fusion energy and wider global applications.
Announced on 02 December, the agreement launches a new joint venture, TAE Beam UK, which will be based at UKAEA’s Culham Campus in Oxfordshire.
TAE Beam UK will bring together the scientific expertise, engineering capabilities, and commercial experience of both organisations to design, develop, manufacture, and service next-generation neutral beams.
These systems play a critical role in fusion machines by delivering high-energy hydrogen atoms to heat and stabilise plasma at fusion-relevant conditions. TAE has spent more than two decades refining this technology and is the first company to use neutral beams for both FRC plasma formation and high-quality plasma sustainment.
The joint venture will also adapt TAE’s accelerator technology for non-fusion applications, including state-of-the-art cancer treatments, food safety and homeland security innovations. UKAEA plans to make an equity investment of £5.6 million, engaging leading scientists to advance this high-impact technology.
TAE Beam UK will strengthen the UK’s position as a global hub for fusion engineering while creating high-skilled jobs and deepening US-UK collaboration on clean energy.
The project is supported by TAE’s own nine-figure investment in the technology, and aims to deliver its first short-pulse beams within 18–24 months, subject to regulatory approval.
Michl Binderbauer, CEO of TAE Technologies, said:
“The UK has long been at the forefront of fusion innovation, and we’re proud to deepen our partnership with UKAEA.
“The UK’s world-class scientific talent and unwavering commitment to commercializing fusion energy make the country an ideal partner as we scale neutral beam technology from lab to market.”
Tim Bestwick, CEO of UKAEA, added:
“UKAEA is very much looking forward to working in partnership with TAE Technologies on developing neutral beams and commercializing this exciting technology, bringing jobs and growth to the UK.”
Senior government figures in both countries welcomed the announcement, highlighting its role in advancing clean energy, strengthening international cooperation, and ensuring fusion remains central to future energy and AI-driven demands.
