The ILIOS consortium, led by Kier Group and Nuvia, has been selected to deliver the UK’s first prototype fusion energy plant.
The wider team also includes AL_A Architects, AECOM and Turner & Townsend.
The consortium secured the contract after beating strong competition from Inovus Infrastructure — comprising Balfour Beatty and Vinci alongside AtkinsRéalis, Mott MacDonald and WSP — as well as a joint venture between Ferrovial and Mace
Simon Matthews, programme director for ILIOS said: “This is a significant milestone in the UK’s transition to clean energy.
“Following an extensive and collaborative procurement stage, we are proud to be selected as construction partner and to be part of this innovative and transformative chapter in energy supply.
“We will help advance the UK’s future energy resilience and decarbonisation ambitions, supporting economic and regional growth, high-quality jobs and the development of a long-term, UK-based, fusion supply chain.”
UK Fusion Energy CEO Paul Methven added: “The appointment of ILIOS as our Construction Partner marks a significant milestone.
“Their combined experience in major infrastructure, safety critical engineering and complex site transformation gives us real confidence as we move from planning into delivery.
“This partnership will help ensure that West Burton becomes a leading centre of fusion innovation and a cornerstone of the UK’s future clean energy landscape.”
The ILIOS consortium will take full responsibility for delivering the project at the West Burton site, covering every stage of the construction programme.
Its role will include:
- Acting as the principal design and build contractor
- Delivering all construction works under the STEP programme leadership
- Managing early enabling works across the site
- Coordinating design integration, civil engineering, buildings and supporting infrastructure
- Overseeing supply chains, logistics and construction sequencing
- Ensuring all safety, sustainability and quality standards are met
- Providing long-term continuity and delivery capability through to the plant’s planned operation in 2040