Engineering Research Opportunities to Enable Commercial Fusion Energy

THEME OVERVIEW

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.

Agenda Highlights

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

ERVA is now accepting nominations for visioning event participants. Participants are invited to contribute their expertise and insights on how engineering can drive this transformation. Nominate yourself or a colleague to join the discussion using the link below.