ENN ENERGY(HK:02688) Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-06-17 06:23Core Insights - The article draws a parallel between the historical achievement of laying the transatlantic cable and the current pursuit of controlled nuclear fusion, highlighting the strategic vision and determination required in both endeavors [9][10]. Historical Context - In 1854, an American businessman named Field aimed to lay a transatlantic cable, which was deemed impossible due to the technological limitations of the time [3][4]. - After multiple failed attempts, including a significant setback in 1865, Field finally succeeded in 1866, enabling communication between the UK and the US, which was celebrated as a monumental achievement [5][6][7]. Current Industry Focus - Controlled nuclear fusion is emerging as a critical area of competition among nations, with significant investments and research efforts directed towards making it a viable energy source [10][11]. - The raw materials for nuclear fusion, such as deuterium and tritium, are abundant, with deuterium found in seawater, making it a potentially limitless energy source [12]. Investment and Development - The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project in France represents a significant global effort in nuclear fusion research, with various countries, including China, actively participating [14]. - Chinese private enterprises, such as New Hope Group, are increasingly involved in nuclear fusion projects, marking a shift from state-dominated initiatives to private sector participation [19][21]. Technological Milestones - New Hope Group's "Xuanlong-50U" device achieved its first plasma discharge in January 2024, marking a significant step in the development of controlled nuclear fusion technology [21]. - The project is notable for being the first privately initiated controlled nuclear fusion project in China, focusing on the hydrogen-boron fusion route, which is less common than the deuterium-tritium approach [21][22]. Challenges Ahead - The path to achieving practical nuclear fusion is fraught with challenges, including the need for extremely high temperatures and effective plasma confinement [31]. - The hydrogen-boron fusion route presents additional difficulties, requiring temperatures around 3 billion degrees Celsius, which have never been achieved [31]. Market Dynamics - The global investment landscape for nuclear fusion has seen a surge, with approximately $6.5 billion invested in commercial fusion startups over the past five years, indicating a growing interest from private capital [41]. - The flexibility and rapid decision-making capabilities of private enterprises may lead to faster advancements in nuclear fusion technology compared to government-led initiatives [42]. Future Outlook - The article concludes that while significant progress has been made, the journey towards commercial nuclear fusion is still in its early stages, with many hurdles to overcome before it can become a practical energy source [46].