As the global race to develop fusion energy gains momentum, the University of Arizona (U of A) is emerging as a key player by forging federal partnerships, enhancing industry collaborations, and planning a new fusion energy engineering facility. These initiatives aim to integrate clean and abundant power into the grid, marking a significant step toward energy sustainability.
Over the past year, the university has collaborated on advanced laser systems essential for fusion reactions, joined a national fusion commercialization initiative, partnered with new fusion companies, and led state efforts to shape future energy strategies. This comprehensive approach seeks to position U of A at the forefront of the energy revolution.
According to Tomás Díaz de la Rubia, senior vice president for research and partnerships at U of A, the international competition to commercialize fusion technology highlights its critical role in U.S. economic and national security. “Whichever country succeeds in commercializing fusion energy will control much of the global energy market in the future,” Díaz de la Rubia said. He emphasized Arizona’s strategic initiatives to establish itself as a leader in the commercial fusion energy sector.
The fusion energy landscape reached a pivotal moment in 2022 when scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory achieved a breakthrough fusion reaction that generated more energy than the lasers used to initiate it. This development shifted focus from scientific exploration to engineering solutions, including cost-effective laser and fuel systems and robust power plant designs.
Horst Hahn, special advisor on fusion at U of A, noted the university’s concerted effort to address technical challenges by leveraging strengths in optical science, high-power lasers, and materials research to expedite fusion’s transition into a viable power source.
The Global Surge in Fusion Development
Countries worldwide are unveiling plans and substantial funding for fusion energy programs, with over 12 nations hosting fusion companies. Since 2021, global investment has surged past $9.7 billion, with $2.6 billion expected in 2025 alone, driven by government-industry collaborations and increased confidence in fusion’s potential, according to the Fusion Industry Association. Experts predict that commercially viable pilot plants could emerge in the 2030s.
Various methods to achieve fusion energy are being explored, such as magnetic and inertial confinement, which involve using powerful magnets or lasers respectively. With significant investment in both approaches, China is emerging as a leading competitor against U.S. and European efforts.
In an op-ed for The Hill, U of A President Suresh Garimella and Díaz de la Rubia emphasized the necessity of prioritizing fusion energy investment in the U.S. They proposed establishing a National Fusion Technology Center, aligning with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Fusion Science & Technology Roadmap to enhance infrastructure supporting fusion’s private sector expansion by the 2030s.
Addressing National and State Energy Needs
The drive for fusion energy is fueled by impending electricity demand peaks anticipated in 2026, partly due to data centers requiring substantial electricity for AI and large data processing, per the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Fusion could offer reliable power without direct carbon emissions or long-lived radioactive waste associated with fission reactors.
Fusion’s reliance on widely available fuel could reduce dependence on foreign energy sources, providing Arizona with a competitive edge in attracting tech investments, Hahn added.
Building Partnerships and Industry Connections
The U of A has identified fusion energy as a strategic research priority, supported by the Arizona Board of Regents through the Technology and Research Initiative Fund. This support aids the university in coordinating research, advancing technology transfer, and building partnerships for fusion technology deployment.
U of A President Garimella was appointed to both the Arizona Energy Promise Taskforce and the DOE Office of Science Advisory Committee, focusing on emerging energy technologies, including fusion.
With an emphasis on inertial confinement fusion, U of A is working to enhance laser diode reliability, planning to patent and license technologies for future commercial fusion systems. “Businesses will need these solutions later in their development,” Hahn said. “We’re working on them now so companies can focus on their most urgent priorities.”
The university’s involvement in events such as Arizona–Livermore Days, as part of the AZ Tech Week, highlights its regional engagement. Nationally, U of A joined the DOE-funded STARFIRE Hub for inertial fusion energy.
As a founding member of the Fusion Industry Association Education and Research Partnership Program, U of A collaborates with companies like Innoven Energy to advance research and technology development.
Plans for a fusion energy engineering facility are underway, providing a neutral testing ground for future fusion power plants. U of A is also developing new curricula and training programs to cultivate a workforce for the fusion economy. “Arizona will be among the first U.S. universities to offer these vital classes,” Hahn noted, emphasizing the connection between students and research infrastructure.
A version of this article originally appeared on the Office of Research and Partnerships website.
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