FPN12-53
EPRI Issues Fusion Study Report
November 9, 2012
The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has completed a study
entitled "Assessment of Fusion Energy Options for Commercial Electricity
Production." The 66-page report will be summarized at Fusion Power
Associates Annual Meeting and Symposium, December 5-6 in Washington, DC
(http://fusionpower.org).
The report is available on request from Fusion
Power Associates (fusionpwrassoc@aol.com) or can be downloaded at
http://fire.pppl.gov
The report states: "Fusion energy options were reviewed to assess
technical readiness levels for commercial electricity production for the
power industry. Magnetic and inertial confinement systems, in addition
to nontraditional fusion concepts, were reviewed by a technical panel of
experts, based on workshop presentations by the proponents of each
technology. The results are summarized in this report. The conclusion of
the review is that, although significant progress is being made in many
areas, commercial application is not likely for at least 30 years — if the
concepts prove feasible.
Recommendations are provided to focus more of this research on
engineering and power applications and to engage the power industry in
monitoring progress."
The report states:
"From the utility perspective, the production of electricity should be
the main objective of a fusion development program. At present,
electricity generation appears to be an add-on and not a primary
objective to the basic science of the fusion development program,
largely due to the challenges of developing a fusion device that
produces more energy than it consumes. The following actions are
recommended:
- Direct more fusion research on the engineering and operational
challenges of a power plant, including how to maximize the value of the
fusion power produced. More consideration should be given to the
conversion of the heat of fusion to power production and the reliability
of any fusion device. Consider developing more advanced and perhaps
direct power conversion systems to enhance the overall efficiency of
energy-to-electricity conversion.
- Identify common materials and technology needs (such as tritium
production) that a fusion test facility could address to meet most of
the needs for both magnetic and inertial confinement systems.
- Monitor and periodically re-evaluate the fusion programs to assess
the potential for electric power production in the nearer term to
identify which concepts are likely to produce tangible fusion power. At
the appropriate time, do the following:
- Create a utility advisory group to focus fusion energy research and
development projects to address more utility needs, particularly in the
area of operations and maintenance, and to provide input into the design
of the fusion power plants.
- Begin to consider the regulatory requirements for commercial fusion
power plants in terms of establishing safety and licensing standards.