Nuclear fusion is considered a possible energy source of the future – without CO2 emissions, low-risk and without nuclear waste. Researchers at KIT in Baden-Württemberg are developing components for the operation of a fusion power plant. However, it will still take time before the technology is able to close the existing energy gap.
Greentech Baden-Württemberg: KIT is researching nuclear fusion as a possible energy source of the future
“In an optimal scenario, we are talking about 20 years for a prototype power plant,” says Professor Christoph Kirchlechner from the KIT Institute for Applied Materials.
“That would be a power plant that would show us how to do it. But that wouldn’t be a power plant with which we can supply Germany with energy. “That would have to be built in another generation.” It reports SWR Current.
Greentech energy from nuclear fusion: Promising clean and safe energy source
Nuclear fusion is often viewed as a promising clean and safe energy source. Unlike nuclear fission, which is used in today’s nuclear power plants, nuclear fusion does not produce long-term radioactive waste and there are no risks of serious accidents like nuclear meltdowns.
TrendingGreentech.LIVE Conference 25.-27.04.2024 (Spring Edition)
In addition, the fuels for fusion – deuterium and lithium – are widely available and relatively safe.
However, despite the potential, the development of nuclear fusion reactors has presented technical challenges and difficulties. In particular, generating and maintaining the high temperatures and pressures required for fusion are technically demanding.