the US led nuclear fusion for decades. Now China is in position to win the race

The race for nuclear fusion energy, a potential solution for clean energy, is intensifying between the United States and China. Historically, the U.S. has been a leader in fusion research since the 1950s, but China is rapidly advancing, investing between $1 billion to $1.5 billion annually in fusion technology, compared to the U.S. government's $800 million. Chinese companies, such as Energy Singularity, are making significant strides, having built advanced tokamaks and achieved notable milestones in plasma experiments. In contrast, U.S. facilities are aging, and the country relies on international collaborations for research. While the U.S. has recently achieved breakthroughs using laser technology for fusion, China's aggressive investment and rapid development of tokamaks, including the upcoming BEST tokamak, raise concerns about the U.S. losing its competitive edge. The fusion race is not just about energy production; it also holds implications for global influence and technological leadership. As both nations push forward, the outcome of this competition could reshape the future of energy and climate solutions.

- The U.S. has historically led in nuclear fusion research but faces increasing competition from China.

- China invests significantly more in fusion technology than the U.S., with a focus on developing advanced tokamaks.

- U.S. fusion facilities are aging, while private investment in fusion is predominantly American.

- Breakthroughs in laser-based fusion have been achieved in the U.S., but China's rapid advancements in tokamak technology are notable.

- The outcome of the fusion race could have significant implications for global energy and technological leadership.