Researchers from the University of Cambridge, including S. H. Ward, M. Majeed, and N. J. Lopes Cardozo, have explored the potential of fusion energy technology to decarbonize heat production, a significant challenge in the global energy sector. Their study, published in the journal Fusion Engineering and Design, investigates the economic viability of using fusion energy for heat production in a future decarbonized energy system.
The researchers developed a simple, generalized model to estimate the impact of selling heat on the profitability of fusion energy, comparing it to the traditional approach of selling electricity. They considered various fusion power plant designs proposed in the literature. The study found that heat production could significantly enhance the financial performance of fusion energy over selling electricity alone.
The key insight from the research is that fusion energy could operate as a grid-scale heat pump in a highly electrified energy system. This approach would avoid the costs associated with electrical conversion and recirculation, while also meeting the firm demand for high-value heat. However, this strategy comes with high risks and rewards. The researchers identified options for hedging these risks, such as diversifying the energy products offered by fusion plants.
The study also highlights new avenues for competition in the energy market that would not exist if fusion energy were limited to electricity production. By diversifying into heat production, fusion energy could play a more significant role in the decarbonization of the global energy system. This research provides valuable insights for the energy industry, particularly for stakeholders interested in the potential of fusion energy to contribute to a sustainable energy future.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.