Fusion Energy: Advances and Challenges of Clean Energy Technology
In December 2022, a team at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in the United States achieved something that until recently seemed impossible: generating more energy than was used to initiate a nuclear fusion reaction. This result, which marks a turning point in the history of science, rekindled the debate about the future of energy and the possibility of abandoning fossil fuels.
What is fusion energy and why it is not the same as fission
Nuclear fusion is the process that powers the Sun: uniting light atomic nuclei to release enormous amounts of energy. Unlike fission, which splits heavy atoms and generates long-lived radioactive waste, fusion does not produce large- scale hazardous waste or pose the risk of accidents like Chernobyl or Fukushima.
The latest scientific advances
The NIF project in the United States was the first to achieve "ignition," that is, producing more energy than invested. In parallel, the ITER project in France is advancing toward the construction of the world's largest experimental reactor, while private companies such as Commonwealth Fusion Systems and Tokamak Energy are developing more compact and potentially commercial designs.
Challenges still facing nuclear fusion
The path to commercial fusion energy is not without its obstacles. Construction costs are extremely high, the reaction must remain stable for long periods, and materials capable of withstanding extreme temperatures are required. Addressing these issues is key to making the technology viable on a large scale.
Potential impact on the environment and the economy
If implemented, fusion could drastically reduce CO₂ emissions, guarantee energy independence for countries without fossil fuels, and generate thousands of jobs in high-value technology sectors.
When could it reach our homes?
Experts estimate that the first commercial prototypes could be ready between 2035 and 2040. Although there is still a long way to go, each advance brings the possibility of clean, safe, and unlimited energy a little closer.
