China’s ‘artificial sun’ targets first electricity output by 2030

China has completed key tests on two domestically developed superconducting magnets for a nuclear fusion reactor, marking progress in its “artificial sun” project. The magnets are essential for controlling extremely hot plasma needed for fusion energy, which aims to replicate the energy process of the sun.

Researchers say the device, expected to be completed by 2027, could demonstrate first electricity generation from fusion around 2030. Fusion power uses seawater-derived fuel and produces little radioactive waste with zero carbon emissions. Officials also noted that production costs for superconducting materials have dropped significantly, while the new magnets are larger and more powerful than previous versions.

Credit – CGTN