The greatest increase in demand for energy is envisaged to come from developing countries where, with rapid urbanization, large-scale electricity generation will be required. With environmental requirements for zero or low CO2 emission sources and the need to invest in a sustainable energy mix, new energy sources must be developed. Fusion will be available as a future energy option by the middle of this century and should be able to acquire a significant role in providing a sustainable, secure and safe solution to tackle European and global energy needs.