LIFE: The Case for Early Commercialization of Fusion Energy
This paper presents the case for early commercialization of laser inertial fusion energy (LIFE). Results taken from systems modeling of the US electrical generating enterprise quantify the benefits of fusion energy in terms of carbon emission, nuclear waste and plutonium production avoidance. Sensitivity of benefits-gained to timing of market-entry is presented. These results show the importance of achieving market entry in the 2030 time frame. Economic modeling results show that fusion energy can be competitive with other low-carbon energy sources. The paper concludes with a description of the LIFE commercialization path. It proposes constructing a demonstration facility capable of continuous fusion operations within 10 to 15 years. This facility will qualify the processes and materials needed for a commercial fusion power plant.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-48
- OSTI ID:
- 1028882
- Report Number(s):
- LLNL-JRNL-463536; TRN: US1105532
- Journal Information:
- Fusion Science and Technology, Vol. 60, Issue 1
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
42 ENGINEERING
AVOIDANCE
CARBON
COMMERCIALIZATION
ECONOMICS
ENERGY SOURCES
LASERS
MARKET
PLUTONIUM
POWER PLANTS
PRODUCTION
RADIOACTIVE WASTES
SENSITIVITY
SIMULATION
THERMONUCLEAR REACTORS