The race for fusion energy is on, but it’s not a sprint. Fusion energy is not expected to enter the grid until the 2030s. With many scientific and technological challenges still to be resolved, it is crucial that fusion companies can financially sustain R&D for at least another decade.
With no commercial reactors online yet, private fusion companies are relying heavily on investment. As the number of fusion companies grows, it’s becoming more and more important to stand out to potential investors. As part of this, it’s increasingly vital to offer a credible path to return on investment (ROI).
Fusion companies, like other companies in the ‘deeptech’ space, are prolific innovators with a vast R&D output. Commercialising that R&D output beyond the fusion sector and developing IP to establish a commercial foothold can create valuable revenue streams and give companies an edge over their competitors.
One example of this strategy in action is Tokamak Energy.
The Oxfordshire-based company is not only at the forefront of spherical tokamak research but is also a leader in the development of novel materials, laser technology, and High Temperature Superconducting (HTS) magnets. These innovations have been key to advancing Tokamak Energy’s fusion technology as marked by their recent milestones - achieving a plasma temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius and the highest plasma ‘triple product’ of any private fusion company.
Tokamak Energy’s innovations have far-reaching applications in a range of different fields beyond the fusion space. For example, HTS magnets can be used in particle accelerators, in MRI machines, and in advanced propulsion systems in water, land, air and space.
In recognition of this wide applicability, Tokamak Energy have built a business around HTS magnets themselves. In September 2024, they launched TE Magnetics – their new business division focussing on the industrial deployment of transformative HTS magnet technology. TE Magnetics is reported to offer a full suite of HTS solutions, from modelling and prototyping through to fully integrated magnet system development and delivery, including large scale manufacturing.
With a separate business division focussing on their commercialisation and a comprehensive IP portfolio of over 200 granted patents around HTS magnets, TE Magnetics have secured their position as major players in the HTS space, providing the prospect of a valuable revenue stream for Tokamak Energy.
As can be seen from this example, ‘deeptech’ companies like those in the fusion sector have the opportunity to create IP that carves out a position in the wider market. Leveraging IP in this way can make a fusion company a particularly attractive prospect to investors and has the potential to lead to significant commercial success. The nuclear team at Mewburn Ellis is excited to work with clients in this field to build their IP portfolio and aid their growth and the future of nuclear technology.
Find out more about our Nuclear team here.
