“The journey to fusion energy is a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.”
IAEA Director General,Rafael Mariano Grossi
The momentum behind fusion energy today is undeniable. Inspired by this progress, I launched the IAEA WorldFusion Outlook last year, which serves as a comprehensiveglobal reference that tracks the latest developments in fusion energy. I am very happy with the positive response that this publication has received.
The journey to fusion energy is a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. To further support this journey,I established the World Fusion Energy Group — a global initiative dedicated to fostering collaboration across the spectrum. Our mission is both ambitious and clear: to accelerate the research, development, demonstration and deployment of fusion energy. By bringing together industry, government, academia and regulatory bodies, we are laying the groundwork for a cohesive fusion energy community, united in the pursuit of common goals.
Governments are playing a crucial role in this endeavour. Strategic public investments, robust policy support and international collaboration are essential to transitioning fusion energy from the laboratory to the grid. The success of the global fusion community hinges on these sustained efforts. I encourage establishing regulatory frameworks that are proportionate to the risks and that provide the necessary clarity to accelerate the development of fusion energy and attract investment in the sector.
This year I also invited a group of international experts to identify a set of fusion key elements that will providea comprehensive road map and valuable guidance in the short and medium term to scientists, engineers, regulators, entrepreneurs, policy makers and stakeholders worldwide.
As we enter a crucial phase for fusion energy, we mustintensify our efforts across all sectors: developing enabling technologies and materials, strengthening public–private partnerships, leveraging private capital for commercial viability and cultivating a global workforce. Fusion energy demands a wide range of expertise, from skilled workersto professionals in law, policy and communications, all of whom contribute to the global economy.
Investing in fusion energy research and its commercialization promises significant economic benefits, far beyond the potential for decarbonization. The spin-off technologiesfrom fusion have applications in healthcare, space propulsion, industrial imaging, geothermal drilling and nuclear waste management, among other applications,opening new business avenues beyond energy generation.
As we navigate the complexities of this ground breaking technology, our resolve is steadfast: to harness the powerof fusion energy for a sustainable, prosperous and peaceful world. The fusion era is no longer just an aspiration; it is a reality within our grasp and together we will make it happen.
This year’s edition of the IAEA World Fusion Outlookgoes beyond simply tracking developments and key achievements; it highlights emerging plant concepts, projected development timelines, policy frameworks and trends in both public and private investment. It also coversresearch output metrics and offers regional and sectoral outlooks. I am confident that the IAEA World Fusion Outlook will continue to serve as a valuable guide for stakeholders in the energy, policy and research sectors as they work to advance fusion energy.
