可控核聚变成资本新宠 “人造太阳”商业化渐近

Core Viewpoint - The controlled nuclear fusion industry, referred to as the "artificial sun," is becoming a focal point for capital investment, with significant funding and policy support driving its commercialization in China [3][4]. Investment Trends - Nova Fusion Energy Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. completed a record angel round financing of 500 million yuan, marking a significant milestone for private nuclear fusion companies in China [3]. - China Fusion Energy Co., Ltd. received a total of 11.492 billion yuan in strategic investments from various state-owned enterprises and funds, indicating strong backing for the "national team" in nuclear fusion [3][5]. - The global nuclear fusion industry has seen explosive growth, with total investment rising from 1.9 billion USD in 2021 to 9.7 billion USD, and the number of fusion companies increasing from 23 to 53 [4]. Industry Structure - The nuclear fusion sector in China is characterized by a dual structure of "national team" and "private team," with significant investments flowing into both [3][5]. - The "national team" includes companies like China Fusion Energy and Fusion New Energy, which have received substantial capital support from state-owned enterprises and local governments [5]. - Private companies, while receiving less capital, have attracted investments from notable venture capital firms like Sequoia Capital and Kunlun Capital [5]. Technological Development - Various technological routes exist in nuclear fusion, with magnetic confinement being the most widely adopted globally, while the field-reversed configuration (FRC) is gaining attention for its cost-effectiveness [6]. - The majority of companies are focusing on the Tokamak route, while the U.S. exhibits a more diverse approach to technology development [6]. Policy Support - The Chinese government has increased its support for the nuclear fusion industry through various policies aimed at fostering innovation and commercialization [7]. - Local governments, such as those in Anhui and Sichuan, have also introduced strategic plans to accelerate the commercial application of fusion energy [7]. Commercialization Goals and Challenges - A report indicates that 35 companies globally expect to establish commercial fusion demonstration plants capable of net energy gain between 2030 and 2035 [8]. - Companies like Helion are already initiating construction of commercial fusion plants, with plans to supply power to major tech firms [8]. - Despite optimism, experts caution that significant technical and economic challenges remain before true commercialization can be achieved [9].