Kyoto Fusioneering Ltd. (KF), a pioneer in designing and developing fusion power plant systems, and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology organization, are thrilled to announce the formation of Fusion Fuel Cycles Inc. (FFC) in Ontario, Canada. This joint venture extends the successful Strategic Alliance formed between KF and CNL in September 2023, which aims to develop and deploy deuterium-tritium (D-T) fusion fuel cycle technologies.
FFC represents a strategic consolidation of expertise from KF and CNL, serving as a powerful vehicle to engineer and deliver large-scale fuel cycle systems for global fusion development programs. By marrying the advanced technological and operational capabilities of its parent organizations, FFC is uniquely positioned to offer comprehensive solutions that surpass those previously achievable by either entity alone. This venture is expected to create numerous high-tech jobs in Renfrew County, Ontario, significantly contributing to the region’s economic and workforce development.
FFC’s mission is to accelerate the deployment of fully integrated D-T fuel cycle systems that meet the highest safety and performance standards. The first project under this initiative is UNITY-2, a groundbreaking integrated and flexible fuel cycle test facility located at Chalk River Laboratories. This facility will pioneer the full D-T fuel cycle from fuel discharge to purification and supply, demonstrating efficient tritium processing technology in relevant conditions and at relevant rates to enable a risk-reduced path to a fusion powerplant on a decadal timeframe. As the first of several planned projects, UNITY-2 represents a significant step forward, setting the stage for subsequent facilities that will support experimental and power plant-scale fusion machines worldwide.
Also see accompanying document here to learn more.
Solutions to Major Subsystem Risks and Serving as an Innovation Platform
UNITY-2, a global first integrated fuel cycle test facility slated for commissioning by late-2025 and full operations by mid-2026, will serve as a versatile and open platform for fusion innovators worldwide to advance science and close technology gaps related to tritium-processing systems.
UNITY-2 will address key risks in a fusion powerplant’s tritium processing plant by developing and demonstrating critical enabling technologies. Specifically, it will support the study and demonstration of tritium inventory minimization and processing efficiency; tritium emission minimization and material compatibility; process modeling, controls, and simulation; fuel supply; tritium accountancy and diagnostics; safe tritium operations; and waste minimization. It will do so in a manner that applies to a broad range of fusion confinement concepts.
With operations beginning in mid-2026, UNITY-2’s timeline aligns with the needs of both near-term demonstration devices, as well as a fusion powerplant on a decadal timeframe. Furthermore, FFC aims to enable an accelerated, risk-reduced path to a fusion powerplant and to foster the development of a vibrant, distributed transpacific fusion supply chain. Lastly, the data and insights garnered from UNITY-2 operations will be invaluable for regulatory bodies to licensing D-T fusion devices.
Email us at info@ffc.inc to learn how to become a user of UNITY-2.
Words from Our Leaders
Mr. Jack Craig Jr., CEO of CNL, expressed his enthusiasm about this groundbreaking joint venture: “Establishing Fusion Fuel Cycles Inc. marks a significant milestone in fusion energy development, combining KF’s technological prowess and CNL’s extensive experience with tritium handling to revolutionize the fusion industry.”
Dr. Satoshi Konishi, CEO of KF, stated: “Through FFC, we are not just accelerating the development of crucial fuel cycle technologies but also providing comprehensive solutions that will shape the future of fusion energy. This facility—UNITY-2—is just the beginning, as we aim to design and implement similar systems globally.”
The Honourable Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, commented: “This innovative venture between Kyoto Fusioneering and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories is a testament to Ontario’s ongoing success in the development and deployment of clean energy technologies. We congratulate Fusion Fuel Cycles Inc. on their merger, and look forward to seeing their partnership foster economic development and the creation of new, good paying jobs in Renfrew County and across the province.”
About Fusion Fuel Cycles Inc.
・Establishment Date: 5/2/2024
・Representatives: Stephen Bushby (CNL), Ian Castillo (CNL), Satoshi Konishi (KF), and Kiyoshi Seko (KF)
・Address: 286 Plant Road Chalk River ON K0J 1J0
About CNL
As Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology laboratory, and working under the direction of AECL, CNL is a world leader in the development of innovative nuclear science and technology products and services. Guided by an ambitious corporate strategy known as Vision 2030, CNL fulfills three strategic priorities of national importance – restoring and protecting the environment, advancing clean energy technologies, and contributing to the health of Canadians.
By leveraging the assets owned by Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), CNL also serves as the nexus between government, the nuclear industry, the broader private sector, and the academic community. CNL works in collaboration with these sectors to advance innovative Canadian products and services towards real-world use, including carbon-free energy, cancer treatments and other therapies, non-proliferation technologies and waste management solutions.
To learn more about CNL, please visit www.cnl.ca/
About KF
Kyoto Fusioneering, established in 2019, is a privately funded technology startup with facilities in Tokyo, Kyoto, Reading (UK), and Seattle (USA). The company specializes in developing advanced technologies for commercial fusion power plants, such as gyrotron systems, tritium fuel cycle technologies, and breeding blankets for tritium production and power generation. Working collaboratively with public and private fusion developers across the globe, Kyoto Fusioneering’s mission is to make fusion energy the ultimate, sustainable solution for humanity’s energy needs.
Explore more about KF’s vision for the future of energy at www.kyotofusioneering.com/en/ or by contacting media@kyotofusioneering.com
