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Fusion Energy
By harnessing the same process that powers our sun, fusion has the potential to revolutionize how we generate electricity on Earth. The potential of accessing a clean baseload power via fusion energy is also nearer than many may realise.
What is it?
Fusion involves combining light atomic nuclei, like hydrogen isotopes, under extreme heat and pressure until they fuse together, releasing enormous amounts of energy. Unlike nuclear fission, fusion produces minimal radioactive waste, uses abundant fuel sources, and carries no risk of meltdown.
Opportunities
While fusion has been a scientific pursuit for decades, recent breakthroughs mean the possibilities of fusion could be realised sooner. Developments in magnets, reactor designs, and computational models have accelerated progress, with several companies targeting commercial fusion power within this decade.
Fusion offers nearly limitless fuel from common elements, zero carbon emissions, and scalable energy production without environmental impact. Achieving commercial viability is crucial, but strategic market barriers still hinder its integration into the global energy system.
Find out more about fusion energy by reading our Fusion Energy 101, developed by the UK Atomic Energy Authority and Energy Institute, in collaboration with members of the Sustainable Markets Initiative’s Fusion Task Force.
Fusion Energy 101: A game-changer for future energy supply
This guide explores the groundbreaking potential of fusion energy, and its importance for the future of global energy supply.