Op-ed: how lasers could advance clean energy

Antanas Laurutis, CEO of Altechna, writes about the laser optics and photonics industry and its relationship with the energy sector. Read on: 

As the effects of climate change become increasingly severe, the demand for alternative and reliable energy sources has never been more urgent. Traditional fossil fuels contribute significantly to global warming, necessitating a shift towards cleaner, sustainable energy solutions. Among these, nuclear fusion is a promising candidate due to its potential for providing abundant, safe, and carbon-free energy.

Private-sector interest in fusion research is booming with both public and private sectors joining the rally. For instance, the US announced new steps to advance fusion energy research, including US$180mn for projects and the development of a fusion pilot power plant under the Fusion Energy Strategy 2024. At least 35 global companies are actively pursuing fusion research and collectively have secured nearly US$6.2bn in private funding in addition to government grants.

This will have profound implications for the laser industry as lasers are among the key enablers in the nuclear fusion field. They provide precise control and intense energy delivery crucial for igniting and sustaining fusion reactions. Therefore, I see this as a catalyst for demand in laser technology.

Fusion energy surpasses all existing energy forms in power. By tapping into this type of energy, it is possible to generate nearly 4 million times more energy per kg of fuel compared to fossil fuels. Additionally, fusion operates reliably in all weather conditions, unlike solar and wind energy, and generates significantly less hazardous waste compared to current nuclear power plants. It is also carbon-free.

Impediments

One significant factor impeding the rapid development of nuclear fusion is public opinion. Many people harbour fears about nuclear plants, associating them with risks of accidents and radiation exposure. While these concerns are understandable, it's important to recognize that fusion energy differs fundamentally from traditional nuclear fission.

Unlike fission, fusion does not involve chain reactions and produces minimal radioactive waste, making it inherently safer. Fusion reactions also require extremely high temperatures to sustain, meaning that any disruption would naturally cool and halt the reaction, eliminating the risk of a runaway scenario. This positions fusion as a much safer and more environmentally friendly energy source.

To date, there have been a few advancements in nuclear fusion. In December 2022, a historic milestone was achieved globally by the US National Ignition Facility as scientists initiated a laser-powered nuclear fusion reaction, producing more energy than consumed for the first time.

In 2024, UK scientists surpassed their own record for fusion energy generation using a non-laser method. However, in laser experiments, scientists consistently produced more energy than inputted, doubling the energy output in subsequent repetitions. These findings suggest that laser-powered nuclear fusion is a promising tool for future energy generation.

Investment opportunities in the laser technology sector are also on the rise, driven by the promising future of fusion energy. For instance, Xcimer Energy recently raised USD 100 million for its inertial laser fusion facility, highlighting strong investor interest in this area.

The shift towards laser-based fusion is expected to drive advancements in laser technology that will not only benefit fusion research but also have the potential to enhance various applications in manufacturing, communications, and medical devices.

The development of laser-powered fusion encourages strategic partnerships across various sectors. This is already evident from the most recent collaboration between the US and Japan, which accelerated fusion commercialisation. This partnership includes joint research initiatives, shared technological advancements, and synchronised policy frameworks to foster a conducive environment for fusion innovation.

The fusion process relies on precise laser beams interacting with fusion targets, where optics play a crucial role in ensuring efficient energy delivery, X-ray production, and fuel compression. As laser fusion research advances, the demand for specialised optics – such as high-energy coatings, beam-shaping elements, and diagnostic components – continues to grow.

At Altechna, we are betting heavily that nuclear fusion will spearhead a real green revolution in energy, and we are committed to being a part of it. For instance, alongside our recently acquired laser precision optics manufacturer Alpine Research Optics (ARO), we are contributing to the early stages of nuclear fusion development by supplying large optics, up to 18 inches in size.

Advancements in nuclear fusion will have significant implications for consumers. Fusion energy promises affordable, reliable electricity without environmental harm, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. As fusion technology matures, electricity costs could decrease, offering a sustainable alternative. Additionally, fusion produces no greenhouse gases or long-lived radioactive waste, resulting in cleaner energy and a healthier planet for future generations.