The Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) project, led by the public entity UK Industrial Fusion Solutions (UKIFS), is expected to bring long-term economic transformation to the East Midlands region. Based on the former coal-fired power station site in West Burton, the nuclear fusion demonstration facility is scheduled to begin operations by 2040. The report, commissioned by Nottinghamshire County Council and produced by consultancy Amion Consulting, assesses the project’s potential economic returns from 2019 to 2065, covering the planning, construction and operational phases.
Long-term economic projections for Nottinghamshire
Initial forecasts indicate that an average of more than 1,000 construction-related jobs will be created each year in Nottinghamshire, contributing GBP86 mn (USD111 mn) annually to the local economy. Once operational, the site is expected to generate 2,760 permanent positions, equating to an average annual economic impact of GBP210 mn for the county. These projections are based on a modelling approach that accounts not only for direct employment but also supply chain effects and increased local spending.
A structural economic lever for the region
At the scale of the East Midlands, the expected benefits are even more significant. During the construction and planning phase, the study anticipates an average of 2,976 new jobs per year, representing an annual contribution of GBP236 mn. During operations, the region could see a further 6,440 jobs created, with an estimated annual impact of GBP489 mn. These figures reflect rising disposable incomes and growth in linked sectors.
Inter-institutional coordination to maximise impact
The report was developed in partnership with public stakeholders, including Bassetlaw District Council, Lincolnshire County Council and West Lindsey District Council. Its aim is to offer decision-makers a fact-based framework to guide future investment and inform economic and territorial policy planning. Paul Methven, Chief Executive Officer of UKIFS, stated that this was the first comprehensive evaluation of the STEP programme’s economic potential, highlighting opportunities across a range of sectors.
Keith Girling, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at Nottinghamshire County Council, welcomed the findings as a vital reference point for shaping the region’s future and capitalising on the long-term industrial promise of fusion.
