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Fusion Power: US Needs Manhattan Project Funding
23 Jul
Summary
- Fusion energy promises clean, abundant power with accessible fuel.
- US government funding for fusion lags significantly behind China.
- A coordinated US federal effort is crucial for fusion development.
Fusion energy holds the promise of a clean, abundant, and secure power source, with one pound of fuel capable of generating energy equivalent to millions of pounds of coal.
Scientists are confident in understanding the fundamental science, but significant engineering challenges remain. This progress has been fueled by private investment, yet a disjointed approach and insufficient federal funding in the US may cede leadership to China.
China has reportedly mobilized billions for fusion projects, signaling a long-term strategy to dominate the industry. This mirrors past instances where foundational technologies invented in the US later led to Chinese market dominance, such as in solar power.
To overcome these hurdles and secure a strategic advantage, the US needs a significant, coordinated federal funding initiative. This investment is crucial not only for technological advancement but also for developing a skilled workforce, with China reportedly outpacing the US significantly in fusion PhD students.
