Regional Infrastructure Fund backs fusion energy facility
Published: 10 February, 2026
The government is providing up to $35 million through a Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) loan to help local start-up OpenStar Technologies position New Zealand at the forefront of the global research into fusion energy.
Fusion energy is an emerging technology that seeks to replicate the process powering the sun by fusing light atoms into a larger atom, releasing a vast amount of carbon-free energy.
The RIF loan will support the creation of a specialised facility for OpenStar’s next fusion machine. The purpose-built facility will enable OpenStar to scale up its research and development programme, helping attract international investment and creating high-value jobs in New Zealand.
The project has the potential to uncover spinoff applications for the aerospace and medical technology sectors. These could create potential benefits in the medium term, while the technology further evolves towards the ultimate goal of delivering fusion energy.
Often referred to as the holy grail of energy production, the successful development of fusion could be a game-changer for New Zealand’s energy security, economy and environment.
New Zealand’s OpenStar Technologies, led by Dr Ratu Mataira, is one of more than 50 companies worldwide competing to deliver a breakthrough in fusion energy. OpenStar is developing a different design approach to its competitors which offers advantages in stability, cost and scalability.