Nuclear Fusion: The Next Big Thing in Clean Energy?

The article discusses the recent surge in investment and interest in nuclear fusion technology, which has the potential to provide a virtually limitless source of clean energy. Billionaires like Bill Gates and Jeff Bezos are backing companies like Commonwealth Fusion Systems and Pacific Fusion, which aim to commercialize fusion power within the next decade. Fusion involves fusing atomic nuclei together to release energy, as opposed to fission which splits atoms apart. While fusion has been achieved in labs, the challenge lies in sustaining the reaction and generating more energy than is put in. The article highlights the potential benefits of fusion, including abundant fuel sources, no risk of meltdown, and minimal radioactive waste. However, significant technical hurdles remain, and skeptics question whether fusion can be achieved on a commercially viable scale. The article concludes that if successful, fusion could be a game-changer in the quest for clean, limitless energy, but cautions that the road ahead is long and uncertain.

Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/nuclear-fusion-tech-investment-bill-gates-pacific-fusion-commonwealth-fusion-2024-11