Fusion energy storage new energy

Could fusion energy be a major contributor to future electric power systems?

Cambridge, MA, September 12, 2024 — The MIT Energy Initiative, in collaboration with the MIT Plasma Science and Fusion Center, has released a new report that shows that fusion energy could be a major contributor in future electric power systems and identifies what is required to achieve that potential.

What is Fusion Energy Science?

Fusion Energy Sciences Program Fusion – the same reaction that powers the sun – has the potential to be a game-changing technology to help us achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, protect national security, and enhance U.S. technology leadership.

Can fusion energy be used as a fuel?

Once developed, first-generation fusion plants may likely use a combination of abundant deuterium (an isotope of hydrogen) and lithium as fuel. Commercial fusion energy has the potential to revolutionize the energy industry, help to achieve energy abundance and security, and help meet growing clean energy needs of the U.S. and the world.

How does nuclear fusion work?

Nuclear fusion is the process that powers the Sun. It works by heating and forcing tiny particles together to make a heavier one which releases useful energy. If successfully scaled up to commercial levels it could produce endless amounts of clean energy without carbon emissions.

What is nuclear fusion?

Nuclear fusion is the process that powers stars. Scientists believe it could produce vast amounts of energy without heating up our atmosphere. European scientists working at the site said "we have achieved things we've never done before". The result came from the lab's final experiment after more than 40 years of fusion research.

Is fusion energy a societal value?

Overall, the analyses showed that — while the technology demands of harnessing fusion energy are formidable — so are the potential economic and environmental payoffs of adding this firm, low-carbon technology to the world’s portfolio of energy options. Perhaps the most remarkable finding is the “societal value” of having commercial FPPs available.