Japan laser fusion startup seeks more partners - Nikkei Asia
Japan laser fusion startup seeks more partners - Nikkei Asia
TOKYO -- A Japanese startup with roots in Osaka University has drawn worldwide attention for its advances in laser-powered nuclear fusion, viewed as a next-generation clean energy source.
EX-Fusion CEO Kazuki Matsuo, who co-founded the company in 2021, recently explained to Nikkei why broader participation by suppliers will be necessary to get the nascent fusion energy industry off the ground in Japan.
Related Knowledge Center: ENERGY BASICS: nuclear
Nuclear energy provides almost 20 percent of the U.S. electricity supply. Advocates have called for an expanded role for nuclear as an emissions-free fuel source. But the economics of building new reactors are daunting. In addition, lingering safety concerns are an institutionalized part of the calculation of nuclear regulation, and highly radioactive nuclear waste remains a can that public officials have been inclined to kick down the road. The Energy Information Administration projects a sharp decline in nuclear power generation over the next decade, as new nuclear plants — two are planned — are more than offset by anticipated retirements of several operating reactors.