This website will offer limited functionality in this browser. We only support the recent versions of major browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.
With market-leading expertise in nuclear and fusion law, we support clients on complex projects and emerging energy technologies in the UK and across the globe.
New build projects must be delivered in a complex regulatory environment alongside the continued operation of existing nuclear facilities, the decommissioning of legacy facilities and the development of new infrastructure.
Our understanding of the nuclear sector is unrivalled. We have worked on almost all of the UK’s nuclear-licensed sites, advising operators and contractors at all levels of the supply chain. We are committed to long-term relationships with our clients, including government bodies, regulators, operators, developers, insurers, and contractors.
Our lawyers also participate in key industry associations such as INLA, WNA, NEMO, NIA and the Nuclear Institute. In parallel, fusion energy is seen as the holy grail of energy generation, offering abundant, safe, secure, and zero-carbon power with minimal radioactive waste.
Burges Salmon’s market-leading expertise in fusion law positions us to support this game-changing development. Our deep understanding of the fusion regulatory landscape, alongside our environmental expertise, allows us to guide fusion clients — including project sponsors, developers, and technology vendors — through this complex sector.
From new build development to waste management, our Nuclear and Fusion services encompass a wide range of solutions designed to ensure comprehensive support and guidance across all stages of your projects.
Advising on the safe decommissioning of nuclear sites, ensuring compliance with environmental and regulatory requirements.
Providing support on operational challenges, including safety, regulatory compliance, and maintenance of existing nuclear facilities.
Expertise in managing both interim and long-term radioactive waste, including storage solutions and regulatory compliance.
Comprehensive legal support for nuclear and fusion new build projects, including planning, development, and regulatory oversight.
Advising on establishing nuclear and fusion laws to international standards, especially for countries new to nuclear and/or fusion power programmes.
Advising on the UK regulatory framework for fusion, alongside international law and regulatory justification.
Expertise in corporate structuring and financing for fusion projects, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and financial requirements.
Advising on complex construction and commercial contracts for both nuclear and fusion projects, ensuring contractual protection and risk management, including alliancing.
Providing guidance on environmental assessments, planning permissions, and regulatory compliance for nuclear and fusion projects.
Burges Salmon is at the forefront of supporting fusion technology advancements. Our expertise spans high-profile projects, including advising Fusion for Energy on the ITER Project and UKAEA on the STEP Project and the Fusion Foundations Programme.
We work closely with fusion clients, including project sponsors and technology developers, offering comprehensive guidance on regulatory, commercial, and environmental matters.
Our lawyers are active in key industry groups, such as the International Nuclear Law Association (INLA) and Nuclear Industry Association (NIA). Ian Salter, a leading expert in this field, contributes to the International Group of Legal Experts on Fusion Energy (FELEX), offering thought leadership and insight on emerging legal frameworks for fusion energy development.
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs) are set to play a critical role in achieving Net Zero. At Burges Salmon, we leverage our extensive experience in global nuclear new build projects to support clients in the development and deployment of SMRs and AMRs.
Our team offers end-to-end legal services, from project design, financing, and site acquisition to construction, operation, and decommissioning.
We have a deep understanding of UK and international nuclear law, regulatory processes, and the legal hurdles facing SMR and AMR deployment. Our lawyers are actively involved in expert industry groups and working bodies, ensuring we stay at the forefront of ANT developments, both in the UK and globally.
Key Contact
Key Contact
Key Contact
Burges Salmon has published the Guide to Nuclear Law, one of the few comprehensive texts in the field. Now in its third edition, the guide covers critical aspects of nuclear law, including regulatory frameworks, a review of international nuclear treaties and conventions, as well as commentary on SMRs and AMRs.
It is widely regarded as a key resource for professionals in the nuclear industry, providing in-depth insights and practical guidance on both UK and international nuclear law. Get in touch to register your interest in receiving the latest edition.
Register your interest
Thought leadership
24 April 2025
/Passle/5d9604688cb6230bac62c2d0/MediaLibrary/Images/2025-04-24-10-31-09-431-680a12ed1f52562e7348ecc7.jpg)
Thought leadership
24 February 2025
Thought leadership
31 January 2025
