Things You Gotta Know

U.S. Risks Losing Fusion Energy Race to China, Industry Leaders Warn
At a recent Seattle conference, U.S. fusion industry leaders expressed concerns over China’s significant investments in fusion energy, which surpass U.S. spending. China’s commitment includes substantial funding and the development of a skilled workforce, while U.S. efforts rely more on venture capital. Experts warn that without increased federal support, the U.S. may fall behind in the global fusion race.

Fusion Energy Is the Key to World Hegemony
Fusion energy is poised to become a cornerstone of global power dynamics. China’s aggressive pursuit of fusion technology positions it to potentially outpace the U.S. and its allies. The nation that achieves commercial fusion first could dominate future energy markets, underscoring the strategic importance of investing in fusion research and development.

The UK’s Advancements in Plasma Physics and Fusion Energy
The UK continues to lead in plasma physics and fusion energy through innovative research and collaborations. Dr. Kate Lancaster highlights the country’s efforts in developing cutting-edge projects and fostering partnerships that advance fusion technology, reinforcing the UK’s position at the forefront of this scientific field.

Israel Launches Strategic Forum to Structure Its Fusion Energy Industry
Israel has initiated its first Fusion Forum, led by nT-Tao, to establish a national ecosystem for fusion energy. The forum aims to integrate public, academic, and private sectors to position Israel as a competitive player in the global fusion market, focusing on commercialization, talent development, and regulatory frameworks.

Google Backs AI-Boosted Nuclear Fusion Reactor Eyeing 1.8 Billion°F Plasma by 2030
TAE Technologies has secured over $150 million in funding, with significant backing from Google, to develop a novel fusion reactor targeting plasma temperatures of 1.8 billion°F by 2030. This investment underscores the growing interest in fusion energy as a sustainable power source for the future.

Sparks Fly: Seattle-Area Fusion Startup Rivals Debate Path to Commercial Power
At a Seattle conference, representatives from Helion Energy, Zap Energy, and Avalanche Energy discussed their differing approaches to achieving commercial fusion power. While Helion targets a 2028 launch of a 50-megawatt plant, Zap and Avalanche emphasize the need for further research and caution against overly optimistic timelines.

Fusion Supply Chain Spending Rises as Commercialisation Nears
A report from the Fusion Industry Association reveals that supply chain spending in the fusion sector nearly doubled in 2024, reaching $434 million. This surge reflects the industry’s progression towards commercialization, with several companies planning pilot plants. However, concerns remain about the supply chain’s capacity to meet future demands.

Nuclear Fusion Record Smashed as German Scientists Take a “Significant Step Forward” to Near-Limitless Clean Energy
Germany’s Wendelstein 7-X stellarator has achieved a new record in sustaining high-temperature plasma, marking a significant milestone in fusion research. This advancement brings the prospect of near-limitless clean energy closer to reality, demonstrating the potential of stellarator designs in achieving sustained fusion reactions.

Interview with nT-tao CEO Oded Gour-Lavie

BY MICHAEL HEUMANN

In this exclusive interview, nT-tao CEO Oded Gour-Lavie discusses the company’s modular, high-density fusion systems and how they aim to disrupt off-grid power markets. Their table-sized stellarator design could revolutionize energy access from desalinization to defense.

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Fusion Energy Regulations Around the World

BY MICHAEL HEUMANN

From the UK to South Korea, countries are racing to regulate fusion energy on its own terms. This global shift is a key enabler of the sector’s path to commercialization. As national policies align with the unique safety and operational characteristics of fusion, the momentum toward market readiness is accelerating worldwide.

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