Fusion energy technology

Taking steps to clarify our position on fusion energy regulation

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) applies a regulatory framework to regulate the use of nuclear energy, technology and materials to protect health, safety, security and the environment.

With the increasing national and international interest in fusion energy research and development, we are taking steps to clarify our position on fusion energy regulation, as per our regulatory responsibility under the Nuclear Safety and Control Act.

What is fusion energy?

Nuclear fusion is the process by which 2 light atomic nuclei join, releasing energy. Fusion occurs naturally at the centre of stars, including our sun.

Position paper

In 2024, we published a position paper on regulating fusion energy technology.

Fusion energy cannot be regulated in the same way as fission energy, given their different risk profiles. As a result, regulatory amendments may be required.

Regulatory Readiness for Fusion: Discussion paper

Discussion papers play an important role in the development of the regulatory framework and regulatory program of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). They are used to solicit early public feedback on CNSC policies or approaches.

A discussion paper on the proposed approaches for regulating fusion facilities is available for public comment until August 4, 2025.

The feedback will inform potential revisions and enhancements to the overall CNSC framework for regulating fusion facilities.

Learn more about the public comment period and read the discussion paper.

Additional information

• Document history of discussion paper DIS-16-04, Small Modular Reactors: Regulatory Strategy, Approaches and Challenges
• Review of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission’s Regulatory Framework for Readiness To Regulate Fusion Technologies
• What We Heard Report (DIS-16-04): Small Modular Reactors - Regulatory Strategy, Approaches and Challenges

For more information

If you have any questions, please contact us.