The race is on to replicate the power of the sun with fusion energy

Environment

The idea of fusion power has intrigued scientists for nearly 100 years, when they first discovered the process that powers the sun and stars. A fusion reaction, which occurs when atoms fuse together, could generate four times more energy than today’s fission reactors, and about four million times more than burning coal, without producing any greenhouse gases. 

Additionally, the process does not generate long-term radioactive waste, fusion reactors cannot melt down, and fusion fuel (hydrogen) is readily available. Once scientists finally manage to create a sustained fusion reaction, it could be a huge game-changer for the energy industry.

ITER, a $22 billion dollar international megaproject in the south of France, is the best-funded fusion endeavor, paid for by the governments of its seven member nations. It hopes to be the first to demonstrate the viability of fusion by generating more energy than it consumes. But venture capitalists and billionaire investors are also pouring money into fusion start-ups, with hopes to commercialize fusion power within the next decade.

Watch the video to learn more.

Articles You May Like

Albanian PM: No 10 showed ‘signs of regret and embarrassment’ over language about country
King’s state visit to France postponed after violent protests over Macron pension changes
Sam Altman didn’t take any equity in OpenAI, report says
Rishi Sunak releases tax return details after bowing to pressure
Plans to house migrants in military bases or disused ferries to be announced in bid to clear hotels