Type One Energy, a renewable energy firm, has ambitious plans to transform a coal-fired power plant into a prototype fusion power facility. This project will be carried out at the Bull Run Fossil Plant in Tennessee, USA, in collaboration with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).
Advances in Stellarators technology
Stellarators stand out as a promising option for achieving nuclear fusion with net positive energy. Research has proven its performance over decades, thanks to its simple operational design and plasma stability at high ion and electron energy levels.
Type One Energy highlights the inherent predictability of stellarators, which mitigates the risks associated with potential unforeseen physical complications, thus strengthening their suitability for future commercial operations.
Strategic collaboration to create fusion energy
The construction of the prototype stellar fusion machine, Infinity One, will be carried out in collaboration with the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) of the U.S. Department of Energy and is scheduled to begin in 2025, subject to obtaining the necessary permits.
This technology relies crucially on external magnetic fields to confine the plasma. Performance optimization requires precise adjustments in the shape and intensity of these magnetic fields.
Advantages of computer modeling design
Advances in computer modeling and high-performance computing have enabled scientists to tailor magnetic fields precisely, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of stellarators. The stellarator design offers significant advantages, including fuel confinement without large circulating currents and exceptional efficiency by eliminating parasitic recirculation power.
The stable operation of the stellarators reduces maintenance demands and mechanical and thermal stresses, contributing to increased system reliability and longevity. Type One Energy is committed to commercializing fusion over the next decade through its FusionDirect program, capitalizing on the expertise of a strong network of fusion partners.
Type One Energy’s co-founders have demonstrated the effectiveness of stellarators with operating machines such as HSX and W7-X, strengthening confidence in this technology.
Next steps towards fuel ignition
The next phase of the project involves moving the pilot plant towards ignition of the stellarator fuel, paving the way for integration of fusion-generated electricity into the power grid. This represents a major milestone towards the commercialization of fusion, connecting technology leaders, utilities and national laboratories in a real deployment project.
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Source: Bussiness Wire
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