Selling a dream? Fusion experts’ perspectives on the challenges of fusion deployment: Evidence from conference workshops
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Nuclear fusion is increasingly positioned as a pillar of future low-carbon energy systems, yet its deployment depends heavily on how experts frame timelines, system roles, and governance. This exploratory qualitative study analyses how fusion insiders navigate the tension of "selling a dream", balancing aspirational visions with the risks of deferred delivery. Data were collected from expert workshops at three major conferences: SOFE 2023 (Oxford), FEC 2023 (London), and SOFT 2024 (Dublin). Through reflexive thematic analysis, five themes emerged: fusion’s role in energy systems, deployment timescales, energy justice, risk governance, and social licence. Results show that experts view fusion primarily as a complementary "flexible option" rather than a standalone solution. They emphasize milestone-based roadmaps over fixed dates and argue that credibility requires a "showstoppers-first" transparency regarding waste and regulation. The analysis synthesizes three expert stances (balanced hope, open caution, and realistic risk management) and offers practical recommendations for aligning communication and governance with industrial realities.
Source: Fusion Engineering and Design
Language: English
Subfield: Nuclear and High Energy Physics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,810
OpenAlex ID: W7162394218