This visioning event will convene researchers from various sectors to consider the theme of Engineering Research Opportunities to Enable Commercial Fusion Energy. It will be transdisciplinary with respect to engineering disciplines, sectors, and stakeholders interested in fusion energy.
Fusion energy has the potential to deliver carbon-free, always-available power at scale to meet rapidly growing global energy demands. Recent breakthroughs—including achieving ignition, the development of high-field magnetic confinement devices enabled by Rare-earth Barium Copper Oxide (REBCO) superconducting magnets, advanced/additive manufacturing, and high-performance computing supporting whole-device modeling (WDM)—have created a pivotal moment for engineering innovation.
This convening will bring together leaders from universities, national laboratories, and industry to examine the engineering barriers to commercial fusion and define research priorities for commercial success over the next two decades. Participants will identify critical gaps, enabling technologies, and cross-sector opportunities in areas including:
- Advanced materials for plasma-facing components, magnets, fuel capsules, and tritium breeder blankets to enable durable, high-performance fusion systems
- Advanced design, diagnostics, manufacturing, control systems, remote handling, and fuel cycle technologies
This in-person ERVA visioning event is focused on identifying and articulating the near and long-term strategic focus for engineering research that will place the United States in a competitive position worldwide.
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