Revolutionary clean energy source with ITER project demonstrating pathway to commercial fusion power. Recent breakthrough achieved record 69 megajoules of fusion energy through magnetic confinement.
Important Considerations
Significant technical barriers remain before reliable electricity generation at scale. Commercial deployment timeline uncertain despite recent breakthroughs.
How It Works
Fusion power replicates the sun's energy process by fusing light atomic nuclei at extremely high temperatures and pressures. Magnetic confinement systems like tokamaks use powerful magnetic fields to contain superheated plasma while fusion reactions occur. Energy released from fusion reactions can generate electricity with no long-lived radioactive waste.
Advantages
ITER project demonstrates clear pathway to commercial fusion. Record-breaking 69 megajoules achieved by JET facility. Unlimited fuel supply from abundant hydrogen isotopes. No long-lived radioactive waste or meltdown risk. No greenhouse gas emissions during operation.
Challenges
Research technologies face 10-20 year commercialization timelines . Extreme technical complexity requiring international collaboration. Massive capital investment requirements for demonstration plants. High-risk research investments needed for breakthroughs . Commercial viability still requires significant technological advances.