Fusion energy spinout targets next-generation microwaves
UKAEA spinout, MuWave, has secured funding from the UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund (UKI2S) to develop and deliver high-power microwave technology
MuWave team (L-R): Ben Pritchard (Microwave Engineer) with sample microwave waveguide, Gabriel Blackett (Microwave Engineer), Steven Craig (Co-Founder), Helen Webster (Co-Founder) - Image credit: United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority
- High-power microwave technology is essential for commercial fusion energy and applicable to adjacent industries such as geothermal and space
- MuWave will develop and deliver high-powered microwave products in the UK
MuWave, a recent spinout from the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), has secured £450,000 from the UK Innovation and Science Seed Fund (UKI2S) to offer commercial high-power microwave technology enabled by expertise within UKAEA.
The funding combined with a spinout agreement with UKAEA will accelerate MuWave’s growth plans, develop the next generation of microwave sources, called gyrotrons, and support global exports.
Microwave technology uses electromagnetic waves to heat fusion plasma to temperatures many times hotter than the sun. It also supports applications in satellite communications, radar, geothermal drilling and medical imaging.
MuWave was founded in 2023 by a team of UKAEA engineers with expertise in microwave and industrial applications.
The spinout aligns with UKAEA’s strategy to translate fusion research into commercial opportunities, driving long-term economic and industrial gain from national R&D investments.
Steven Craig, Co-founder at MuWave, said:
Finalising the spinout agreement with UKAEA marks a pivotal moment for us. It’s a strong endorsement of the innovation we’ve developed and the commercial potential it holds. We’re proud to be taking this research from UKAEA into the UK fusion sector and beyond, where it can start making a real difference.
Helen Webster, Co-founder at MuWave, said:
Securing our initial funding is a huge milestone for us. It validates the problem we’re solving and the passion behind our solution. We’re incredibly grateful to UKI2S for believing in our vision and excited to use this momentum to build something truly impactful.
STEP Fusion, the UK’s prototype fusion power plant, is expected to rely on high-powered microwave technology for its heating system.
Research and development related to STEP Fusion resulted in several ideas for improving high-power microwave systems. These ideas were taken by UKAEA through patent protection and proof-of-concept prototype build, which ultimately led to the technology developments now being commercialised by MuWave.
Heather Lewtas, Chief Development Officer at UKAEA, said:
UKAEA’s world-leading science and innovation is creating jobs and economic opportunities in the UK, and we are very pleased to support MuWave in its expansion.
UKAEA is leading the development of fusion energy and – crucially – maximising both the scientific and economic benefit to the UK. The world-leading innovation taking place while we solve fusion challenges leads to technology licensing, industry collaborations and spinout companies like MuWave. This all contributes to securing value for the UK economy.
Mark White, Investment Lead for the Fusion Portfolio at UK Innovation & Science Seed Fund (UKI2S), managed by Future Planet Capital, said:
By supporting MuWave at this early stage, we’re showing how deep science knowhow can be transformed into economic success and impact that reaches beyond the specialist world of fusion.
This is exactly the kind of deep-tech spinout UKI2S exists to back – turning national capability into long-term economic and industrial impact.
MuWave also provides consultancy services to a range of fusion and non-fusion organisations.
An interview with the founders of MuWave is available to watch on YouTube: How fusion is powering UK prosperity – Episode 1: MuWave