Key Democrat Urges Increased Funding for Fusion Energy Research to Maintain Global Leadership
Introduction:
Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-Calif.), a key Democrat, has called on the Biden administration and Congress to boost funding for fusion energy research and development. Lofgren emphasizes the importance of meeting the funding benchmarks outlined in the CHIPS and Science Act and the requests from industry leaders to ensure that the United States remains the global leader in emerging energy technologies. The federal government’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2025 falls short of these allocations and could hinder the progress of fusion energy advancements.
The Need for Stronger Funding:
During a hearing before the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, Lofgren urged the administration and Congress to strengthen fusion energy programs. She emphasized the critical juncture for the budding U.S. fusion industry and highlighted the need for increased funding to support its growth. While the proposed budget includes a 6.9 percent increase in fusion energy program funding, it falls significantly short of the $1 billion per annum recommended by proponents in the industry.
Fusion Development Funding Shortfalls:
This is the second consecutive year that fusion development funding has fallen short of the authorized $1 billion annual allocation. The shortfall is concerning as it hampers the progress of fusion research and development. The Federation of American Scientists has expressed disappointment at the funding gaps, noting that the fusion science program faces a shortfall of over $200 million. Additionally, the proposed research network, known as Fusion Innovation Research Engine (FIRE) centers, remains unfunded.
The Significance of Fusion Energy:
Unlike fission, nuclear fusion replicates the reaction produced by fusing atoms, similar to the power generated by the sun. Fusion energy has the potential to provide limitless clean energy and is often referred to as the “holy grail” of energy solutions. Significant advancements have been made in fusion research in recent years, including the completion of a nuclear fusion reaction at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory’s National Ignition Facility in December 2022. Former NIF Director Dr. Edward Moses described this breakthrough as a “Kitty Hawk moment” comparable to the Wright Brothers’ achievement in manned aircraft flight.
The Global Race for Fusion Energy:
There is a global race to harness fusion energy, with the International Atomic Energy Agency overseeing worldwide fusion partnerships and research. The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor in France, a collaboration between six countries and the European Union, is one of the largest scientific experiments in history. To maintain its position as a leader in fusion research, the United States must allocate sufficient funding and resources.
The Importance of Funding:
Lofgren emphasized the need for increased funding to support the momentum of fusion research in the United States. She expressed concern over a 25 percent funding cut for the Milestone program and highlighted the importance of bipartisan support for fusion energy. Lofgren stressed that without adequate funding, the United States risks losing its leadership position to China, which is investing $1.5 billion annually in fusion research.
Administration’s Perspective:
Department of Energy (DOE) Deputy Secretary David Turk acknowledged the enthusiasm for fusion research but emphasized the budget constraints under the Fiscal Responsibility Act (FRA) caps. While Turk expressed support for additional funding, he noted that the administration’s spending request reflects the realities of available resources. He suggested that House Republicans may add money for fusion programs when they submit their version of the energy budget.
A Proposal for Increased Appropriation:
Lofgren highlighted a proposal from the Fusion Industry Association for a $3 billion supplemental appropriation to support specific facilities, programs, and research activities in the emerging fusion industry. She pointed out that China spends $1.5 billion annually on fusion research and emphasized the need for the United States to maintain its leadership position by matching or exceeding China’s investment. The $3 billion supplemental appropriation would be crucial for the progress of the Milestone program and achieving the objectives set by the DOE, the fusion caucus, and the advisory committee.
Conclusion:
Increased funding for fusion energy research and development is crucial for the United States to maintain its global leadership position in emerging energy technologies. Rep. Zoe Lofgren has called on the Biden administration and Congress to meet the funding benchmarks outlined in the CHIPS and Science Act and the requests from industry leaders. The proposed budget falls short of these allocations, posing a risk to the progress of fusion research. The United States must prioritize funding for fusion energy to ensure continued advancements and secure its position as a leader in this critical field.
