The High Power laser for Energy Research project (HiPER) was conceived as a large scale laser system designed to demonstrate significant energy production from inertial confinement fusion.

Using a system of high powered lasers as a driver, HiPER encompasses a suite of technical approaches to achieving controlled fusion reactions in pellets of Deuterium/Tritium fuel. The aim is to raise the fusion fuel to a temperature and density sufficient to 'ignite' it, inducing a propagating burn wave within the fuel. This fusion reaction will yield high energy gain from the flux of energetic neutrons released.

The HiPER Facility will rely upon a large number of investigators, post-doctoral researchers and their corresponding student population. Like other international laser facilities HiPER will become a rich source of talent across a range of relevant fields of expertise.

As the Project moves from the concept stage to design, construction and operations, involvement of industry and technology transfer will naturally follow.

In addition to its primary task of fusion energy research, the HiPER facility will enable world class research in a range of associated fields of physics. It will provide a very significant science facility for Europe, supported by a wide range of existing national laser facilities.