Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Fusion energy is produced when two light atoms, such as hydrogen, combine to form a heavier atom like helium, releasing energy as heat. This process occurs naturally in the Sun and other stars. On Earth, scientists generate and sustain plasma—ionized gas with free electrons—to achieve fusion using electric and magnetic fields to control ions and electrons at extremely high temperatures.
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has supported fusion energy research since the 1950s, starting with the Atomic Energy Commission and continuing today through its Office of Science Fusion Energy Sciences program. This support includes participation in international projects like ITER and programs focused on inertial confinement fusion for stockpile stewardship. The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) also funds transformative fusion research aimed at commercialization.
Fusion energy has the potential to revolutionize the energy sector by providing safe, abundant, zero-carbon electricity and heat. Applications include hydrogen production, meeting industrial heat needs, carbon capture, and desalination, supporting energy security and clean energy goals in the U.S. and globally.
Despite advancements, fusion faces significant technological challenges, including materials development, fuel cycles, and managing activated waste requiring short-term storage and recycling. Fusion may also present proliferation concerns that must be addressed. The DOE remains focused on advancing innovations to enable fusion's technical and commercial viability while addressing these issues.