The HiPER Project proposes a 'single-build' first-of-type development facility, planned in two key stages to achieve a demonstration plant which will deliver electrical energy to the grid, proving the integration and reliability of technologies which will be required for a full-scale commercial generating plant.

The Preparatory Phase began in 2007 and is expected to complete in April 2013. It will lead to a Technology Development Phase for the technologies essential to creating a Laser Energy plant.

Following construction of the HiPER development facility, an Operations Phase will see the first steps of technology integration in a benign environment. This will bring together and refine the system from a 'single-shot' capability into a continuously running plant. When it is achieved, the second major step will be to introduce tritium and deuterium fuels and to operate for extended periods, converting energy into electricity and also breeding tritium fuel in a closed cycle. This phase will fully demonstrate the commercial and industrial feasibility of Laser Energy – a step which will transform our capability to meet the energy challenge.