Energy Department Selects 3 Laser Fusion Research Hubs, Allocates $52 Million Funding

The U.S. Department of Energy has selected Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Colorado State University, and the University of Rochester to establish three research hubs aimed at harnessing miniature laser-driven thermonuclear explosions for future power plants. With a total funding of $42 million over four years, the research will focus on developing the underlying technologies needed for any inertial fusion system. The goal is to recreate controlled fusion on Earth, which could provide a carbon-free and abundant energy source. The research hubs will address challenges such as developing more powerful and energy-efficient lasers, manufacturing cheap hydrogen fuel targets, and exploring different laser fusion concepts.