size of the primary resource
The world’s population is growing. It is expected to be 9 billion by 2040. With a growing population comes a corresponding growth in energy demand. In the next twenty years, the largest growth by energy commodity is electricity, with demand projected to increase by 45% by 2040.
Current energy policy in large part is being driven by public objectives concerning climate change. Today, world temperatures are peaking reflecting a global 100,000-year temperature cycle (in the past 400,000 years, there have been four complete global temperature cycles of comparable temperature peaks and valleys). Of concern is that with today’s temperature peak, there may be anthropogenic (human) activities that could exacerbate temperature effects.
When considering ways to meet energy demands, a more holistic approach is needed to determine which primary form of energy and subsequent energy system should be pursued. Boundary conditions and measurements should be broad and encompassing.
For example, all energy systems should be assessed for the
ADVANTAGES OF FUSION
Unlimited Fuel
Fusion fuel is unlimited. Fusion requires deuterium and tritium, isotopes which can be extracted from seawater and derived from lithium. There is more than enough supply to meet the world’s energy demand for millions of years.
Highest Net Energy Ratio
Fusion ranks the highest in terms of the ratio of useable energy available given the amount of energy required to make that useable energy.
Best Energy Density
Fusion has the best energy density of any energy system in terms of the amount of energy produced by the amount of land/water/area needed.
Minimal Environmental Impact
Fusion produces zero greenhouse gas emissions, emitting only helium as exhaust. There is no continuous production of radioactive waste, and no long-lived waste. Land and water use, and biodiversity impacts are minimal.
No Undue Safety/Security Concerns
Fusion energy is inherently safe, with zero possibility of a meltdown. No materials are produced for the manufacturing of nuclear weapons.
Comprehensive Enabling
Fusion can support the development of other energy systems, such as renewables, as it can provide base-load and back-up power with very little environmental impact. Fusion plants can be located in populous areas and as economies of scale and scope are achieved, help support regional and local energy systems (improve energy security).
Economically Competitive
Natural gas, wind, hydro and fusion are less expensive than coal power, and fusion is projected to be less expensive than fission power.
Complements Immense Technical Innovation
Fusion technologies involve significant cross-sectorial applications (lasers, AI, computing, advanced materials, advanced propulsion systems).