New Program Seeks to Bridge Public and Private Fusion Energy Development

The Department of Energy (DOE) recently introduced its new INFUSE program, the Innovation Network for Fusion Energy, to foster stronger relationship between the private and public sectors in fusion energy development. INFUSE is sponsored by DOE’s Office of Fusion Energy Sciences, under the DOE Office of Science, and is primarily concerned with accelerating fusion energy development through public-private research partnerships such as industry and the national laboratory network.

As a long-standing leader in fusion science research, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) will manage the INFUSE program in conjunction with the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL). Specific goals of the program include addressing enabling technologies, such as new and improved magnets; materials science, including engineered materials, testing and qualification; plasma diagnostic development; modeling and simulation; and magnetic fusion experimental capabilities.

“I am excited about the potential of INFUSE and believe this step will instill a new vitality to the entire fusion community,” ORNL fusion engineer and INFUSE program director Dennis Youchison said. “With growing interest in developing cost-effective sources of fusion energy, INFUSE will help focus current research. Multiple private companies in the United States are pursuing fusion energy systems, and we want to contribute scientific solutions that help make fusion a reality.”

INFUSE is currently accepting project proposals with awards ranging from $50,000 to $200,000. All proposal submissions are due June 30, with award notifications expected to be announced August 10.

For further information and to submit a proposal, visit: https://infuse.ornl.gov/