China is emerging as a key player in the global race to harness fusion energy, with its technological contributions and collaborative efforts drawing international recognition at the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) 30th Fusion Energy Conference in Chengdu. The event highlighted breakthroughs in plasma physics, engineering innovations, and cross-border partnerships aimed at achieving commercially viable clean energy.
International Recognition for Chinese Expertise
IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi praised China's role in advancing fusion technology, designating the Southwestern Institute of Physics (SWIP) as the agency's first Fusion Energy Research and Training Cooperation Center. Pietro Barabaschi of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) commended China's contributions to the multinational project, where it delivers critical components for the France-based initiative.
Milestones in Safety and Innovation
Chinese institutions reported significant achievements, including 2,000 consecutive days of safe production at CNNC facilities and plasma temperatures exceeding 100 million degrees Celsius in experimental reactors. Researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences also completed a crucial installation milestone for advanced fusion devices in early October.
Pioneering Alternative Fuel Solutions
Private-sector initiatives are gaining momentum, with ENN Group targeting hydrogen-boron fusion reactions by 2030. 'This could revolutionize fuel cycles by reducing radioactive byproducts,' said Liu Minsheng of ENN's Energy Research Institute.
A Unified Path Forward
Huang Ping of the China Atomic Energy Authority emphasized that global cooperation remains essential to transition fusion energy from laboratories to power grids. With 35 countries participating in ITER and new training hubs like SWIP, China's fusion strategy aligns with broader efforts to address climate challenges through sustainable innovation.
