In order to satisfy the ever increasing energy demand of the world, new and environmentally friendly, reliable forms of electricity need to be developed.
The energy demand could be tripled by 2050 due to the expected rise in global population from the current 6 billion to 9 billion in addition to improved livelihoods.
Since every single energy source has its strengths and weaknesses, none can be able to address this issue solely. A combination of powers is therefore needed for sustainable development and forthcoming protection of the environment. Fossil fuels, nuclear fission, renewable sources and fusion are the future energy production options.
Currently, as much as 80% of the energy in industrialized nations is obtained from fossil fuels. However, reliance on coal, gas and oil will be disadvantageous since they result in emission of greenhouse gases thus cause acidic pollution. Moreover, these fuel resources are at risk of depletion.
Although nuclear fission could contribute greatly to electricity generation, its growth could be hampered by public and political acceptability issues. The sustainability of renewable resources is largely dependent on environmental conditions besides having challenges of technological enhancement. For continuous energy to be produced, predictable and constant sources need to be developed. For instance, reliance on fossil fuels for a short time then fission and addition of fusion power once it is available.
Fusion guarantees a secure and long lasting source of energy. Other advantages include: guaranteed safety in the absence of greenhouse-gas production, absence of persistent radioactive waste due to recycling and these fuels cannot be depleted. Conservative estimates, indicate that the cost of producing fusion-generated electricity is comparative to obtaining from renewable and fossil fuels. By the year 2100, fusion could be employed to produce at least 20% of global electricity.
Source: CCFE. UK