UKAEA and Eni Partner with Kinectrics to Build World's Largest Tritium Facility by 2030
UKAEA and Eni Partner with Kinectrics to Build World's Largest Tritium Facility by 2030
UKAEA and Eni Partner with Kinectrics to Build World's Largest Tritium Facility by 2030
A major step forward in fusion energy research has been announced with the selection of Kinectrics as the design and fabrication partner for the UKAEA-Eni H3AT Tritium Loop Facility. The Canadian firm, a division of BWX Technologies Inc., will work alongside the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and energy company Eni to develop what is set to become the world's largest and most advanced tritium fuel cycle facility by 2030.
The facility, a key international experimental site for future fusion power plants, is expected to be fully operational by 2028. Its construction marks a significant push to accelerate innovation in tritium technologies, essential for sustainable fusion energy. The Government of Canada has committed up to $15 million to support Kinectrics' involvement in the project.
Kinectrics will take the lead in developing and integrating critical tritium-handling systems, including the Atmospheric Detritiation System (ADS), Water Detritiation System (WDS), and specialised gloveboxes. The company brings decades of expertise in tritium management, covering systems engineering, safety compliance, and in-house tritium infrastructure.
Sarah Clark, Director of the Tritium Fuel Cycle Division at UKAEA, welcomed Kinectrics as a vital partner, stressing the need for strong collaboration to ensure the facility's success. Meanwhile, Nisa Halsey, Vice President of Nuclear Equipment and Tooling at Kinectrics, expressed pride in joining forces with UKAEA and Eni to advance fusion technology.
Francesca Ferrazza, Head of Magnetic Fusion Initiatives at Eni, highlighted the importance of international partnerships in meeting technical goals for the tritium fuel cycle. She also reaffirmed Eni's commitment to industrialising fusion energy as a clean power source for the future.
The UKAEA-Eni H3AT Tritium Loop Facility is poised to reinforce the UK's standing as a global leader in fusion research. Once completed, it will provide a cutting-edge platform for testing and refining tritium technologies, supporting the long-term viability of fusion power plants. Kinectrics' role ensures Canadian expertise plays a central part in this international effort.