The European Union has announced a €330 million investment aimed at accelerating the development of fusion energy and advancing nuclear research, as part of the newly adopted 2026–2027 Work Programme under the Euratom Research and Training Programme.
The initiative is designed to strengthen the EU’s energy independence, boost competitiveness and reinforce technological leadership, while supporting the bloc’s long-term objective of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
At the heart of the programme is the connection of the first commercial fusion power plant to the electricity grid, delivering clean, safe and affordable energy to European households and businesses.
To support this objective, €222 million has been earmarked specifically for advancing fusion energy from the research phase to real-world deployment. Key actions include the creation of a European Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to accelerate the development of commercially viable fusion technologies and establish a robust European supply chain.
The programme will also channel support through the European Innovation Council, helping emerging fusion start-ups scale their technologies and attract private investment. Alongside this, it places strong emphasis on fundamental research, skills development and the coordinated use of research infrastructures across Europe.
Beyond fusion, the Work Programme contributes to broader EU efforts in nuclear research and training. It prioritises improvements in nuclear safety and security, radiation protection and radioactive waste management, while promoting open access to research infrastructures, education and international collaboration.
Operating in parallel with Horizon Europe, the Euratom programme plays a complementary role in advancing the EU’s energy strategy and reinforcing its leadership in clean technologies.
Established under the Euratom Treaty for a five-year period, the current programme originally covered 2021–2025. It was extended by two years in 2025 to align with the EU’s long-term budget framework for 2021–2027.
The latest investment, the announcement notes, signals a renewed push by Brussels to position Europe at the forefront of next-generation energy technologies, with fusion seen as a potential cornerstone of a sustainable energy future.
