Through our discussions (between the three of us) we have come to an agreement that nuclear fusion, though costly, is well worth the money in an attempt to climb out of the hole that has been caused by the world’s rapid consumption of energy.
Electricity and other forms of energy are crucial to the smooth function of our everyday lives. However, we often forget the cost of our consumption. For example, electronic devices, though portable, require charging and use energy through chargers. Lights on and off throughout the day and night leads to not only a high energy bill, but with that a high energy consumption rate. People perform these tasks (plugging in a charger and flipping on a charger) mindlessly, thus leading to an energy crisis. This is where nuclear fusion comes in; though the cost is extensive, so are the benefits. Once the energy is created and dispersed, the energy will be available and also earth friendly. That is why we have agreed that nuclear fusion is worth the cost and effort.
Nice work RJC. I agree that that fusion should definitely be pursued. That being said, could you provide some details (numbers) that might persuade those who are less inclined to make the investment? Numbers can be very helpful, especially for those who might not be easily convinced.
ReplyDeleteI have to disagree with your assessment. Fusion shows little chance of ever being economically competitive with other energy sources. It solves the lesser problems of fission nuclear energy (fuel availability, safety, waste disposal) while making the real problem (capital cost) much worse.
ReplyDeleteThe ITER experience is instructive. $23B (and rising) for a 500MW reactor? It's absurdly complex and expensive, and DEMO will be even worse.
Controlled fusion's primary place in history will be as an example of "what were they thinking?"