The letter , dated October 3, is signed by representatives of the following: Advanced Energy Systems, Brush Wellman, CH2M Hill, Communications and Power Industries (CPI), Everson Tesla, Fusion Power Associates, General Atomics, Outokumpu, Oxford Superconducting, SAIC, Schafer Corporation, Titan Pulsed Science, Washington Group, and Westinghouse.

The Senate letter to Sen Domenici, in its entirety, states:

"We are writing to ask that you support the Fiscal Year 2004 funding level for the Fusion Energy Sciences program that is contained in the House-passed version of the Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill. Most specifically, we want to emphasize the importance of the additional dollars for the ITER project that are contained in the House bill.

"As you are well aware, fusion, if proven to be a practical energy source, will be a huge step toward solving the "energy problem." However, there is no mistaking the fact that there are extraordinary challenges ahead and the steps that must be taken will of necessity be difficult and require substantial international cooperation. The ITER project is an essential step toward establishing the promise of fusion and we very much appreciate your Subcommittee's recognition of its importance.

"As a group of major U.S. companies interested in helping re-establish an industrial base in the U.S. capable of meeting the many very exciting technological challenges associated with fusion development, we have come to understand the importance of some significant funding "up front" during the ITER project negotiations to ensure that the DOE can position the U.S. well against other nations, some of whom are spending many times the amount of the U.S. in preparation for the ITER project. Adequate preparation during the negotiations will be essential to ensuring a equitable role for the U.S. if the project goes forward. We strongly feel that the Administration's allocation of only $2 million in FY 04 for ITER is not adequate in this regard and additional funding, such as that proposed by the House, is therefore very important.

"Therefore, when you meet in conference committee with the House, we urge you to adopt the House's funding level for the Fusion Energy Sciences program and for ITER project preparation.

"Thank you for your consideration of this matter."

Preparation of the letter followed an industry briefing on the status of ITER negotiations hosted by Dr. Robert Iotti (riotti@ch2m.com) September 10-11. Copies of the presentations at that meeting are posted at http://www.iter-us.org