Challenge
Western Gateway sought to position its Severn Edge site as the leading candidate to host the UK’s first prototype fusion energy plant. With five sites under consideration, the bid required rapid, coordinated cross-party political support to gain early momentum and stand out in a highly competitive process ahead of the Secretary of State’s decision.
Approach
Copper developed and implemented a proactive political engagement and communications strategy to deliver first-mover advantage for the Severn Edge bid. This included:
- crafting a targeted messaging and insight pack tailored to political audiences
- leading direct engagement with MPs and Peers through correspondence, briefings, and an all-party parliamentary group (APPG) event
- writing to every MP across South West England and South Wales to secure visible regional backing
- organising a high-profile parliamentary reception in the House of Lords to showcase the bid and generate industry and political momentum.
Value delivered
- Achieved visible political support from 18 MPs and Peers, with over 100 industry stakeholders attending the Lords reception
- Secured formal endorsement from the Wales Office and a minister of state, thereby boosting the bid’s credibility
- Successfully positioned Western Gateway as the frontrunner in the fusion site selection process
- Delivered a strategic first-mover advantage, ensuring Severn Edge was embedded in Westminster conversations before competitors could act