Strasbourg, April 23, 2024
At the recent EU Blueprint for Fusion Energy conference held in Strasbourg, EUROfusion representatives Ambrogio Fasoli, Gianfranco Federici, and Radomir Panek outlined the strategies and collaborative approaches towards advancing fusion technology. Their contributions emphasised the role of fusion energy in steering Europe toward a sustainable energy future.
Ambrogio Fasoli, the Programme Manager at EUROfusion, highlighted the complex yet crucial task of integrating diverse technological solutions to realize a functioning fusion power plant. Emphasizing innovation and collaboration, Fasoli stated, “All of the labs in Europe are adapting their portfolio to embrace innovation and diversity and address the gaps on the way to a powerplant.” His vision extends beyond mere technological achievements, aiming for a holistic approach that encompasses public and private partnerships, essential for accelerating the path to fusion energy commercialization.
Gianfranco Federici, Head of the Fusion Technology Department at EUROfusion, addressed the need for knowledge transfer, particularly from seasoned experts to the next generation of fusion scientists. Federici pointed out the ongoing need for industry engagement and funding diversification: “For true knowledge transfer, you cannot rely solely on books; you need people working together and exchanging experiences,” he asserted. This stance is critical as EUROfusion seeks to not only advance in technology but also in cultivating an ecosystem ripe for industrial innovation.
Radomir Panek, Chair of the EUROfusion General Assembly, presented a detailed update on EUROfusion’s roadmap, reflecting on recent achievements and future directions. “Our 5000 experts have set up a focused research programme based on the European Fusion Roadmap to show how we should proceed to a future fusion power plant,” Panek explained. He emphasized the importance of aligning with ITER developments and preparing for the DEMO reactor, pivotal steps towards realizing fusion’s potential.
The conference also served as a forum for broader policy discussions, with European Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, and other international stakeholders outlining the steps needed to foster an environment conducive to fusion’s development. Simson’s opening remarks highlighted the collective commitment to transforming fusion from a research endeavour into a commercial reality, recognizing the role of the EU in spearheading regulatory frameworks and facilitating international collaborations.
As EUROfusion continues with its comprehensive programme from scientific research to engineering, the EU Blueprint event has reinforced the community’s optimism and commitment. The insights from Fasoli, Federici, and Panek not only illuminate the pathway for EUROfusion’s initiatives, and the centrality of the EUROfusion Consortium in the European R&D effort, but also for Europe’s fusion future, promising a resilient, innovative, and sustainable energy landscape.