Nuclear fusion, big hopes but no end in sight

Vermont is still divided as to whether Vermont Yankee should be relicensed and discussions are heated. A decision is imminent. Meanwhile, scientists continue to research controlled nuclear fusion reactions in the hopes of creating a CO2 neutral power source.

Since the 1950's scientists have tried to achieve controlled nuclear fusion reactions for civilian purposes. This is a different process from the uncontrolled fusion reaction that can be used for nuclear bombs and the fission reaction in existing nuclear plants. The "ignition process" of the controlled fusion reaction produces a substantial energy gain, thereby producing energy. If successful, fusion can provide immense amount of energy without as much radioactive waste as fission.

This summer, Greenwire reported that the National Ignition Facility (NIF), funded by the DOE, has completed a facility wtih 192 lasers. In 2010, NIF will test its full capabilities by increasing the intensity of the lasers and it hopes to produce the first controlled nuclear fusion reaction. NIF announced last week that it has completed experiments where "laser beams can be effectively delivered and are capable of creating sufficient x-ray energy to drive fuel implosion, an important step toward the ultimate goal of fusion ignition." While the science is complex and a non-scientist like myself only understands that lots of lasers create heat and pressure on hydrogen, forcing it to produce a reaction that generates energy, the policy significance is clear. A new source of power independent of fossil fuel will decrease CO2 emissions, satisfy growing demand, and achieve energy independence from foreign imports.

We cannot even begin to consider nuclear fusion a deployable commercially viable energy producer. Not only is the input energy required substantial, scientists have not been able to achieve a "sustained" energy output. Another 50 to 100 years, perhaps even more, may pass before any commercial power generation takes place. Unfortunately, it makes no difference in the Vermont Yankee decision and we still need to develop a waste disposal plan. It however does make one think again about nuclear power's potential and challenges.