中部“黑马” 为什么又是它？

Core Insights - The development of controllable nuclear fusion, referred to as the "artificial sun," is poised to initiate a new energy revolution, promising significant reductions in electricity costs and providing essential energy support for high-energy-consuming industries like AI [1][2]. Research and Development Progress - The CRAFT facility in Hefei has made significant advancements, with the prototype component of the divertor passing expert testing and acceptance [1]. - Hefei has invested over 50 years in controllable nuclear fusion, establishing itself as a leader in this field with multiple successful large scientific installations [2]. - The "iron triangle" of controllable nuclear fusion in Hefei includes the EAST, BEST, and CRAFT facilities, supported by the Hefei Institute of Physical Science [3]. National Research Landscape - China's controllable nuclear fusion research landscape is primarily led by the Southwest Institute of Physics and the Hefei Institute of Physical Science, with contributions from universities and private enterprises [4]. - The EAST facility focuses on long-duration stable operation of high-temperature plasma, while BEST aims to validate compact and efficient fusion device designs [5]. Recent Breakthroughs - In January 2023, EAST achieved a world record with 1 million degrees Celsius plasma stable operation for 1066 seconds, marking a significant milestone in fusion research [6]. - The "Chinese Circulation No. 3" facility reached a breakthrough with dual billion-degree operation, indicating readiness for combustion experiments [6]. Path to Commercialization - The journey to commercialize controllable nuclear fusion involves six stages, with China currently transitioning from combustion experiments to experimental reactors [9]. - Hefei's strategic plan includes the development of experimental, demonstration, and commercial reactors by 2035, with BEST expected to complete power generation demonstrations by 2030 [11][12]. Competitive Landscape - The global nuclear fusion market is projected to reach $496.55 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 7.4% from 2024 to 2030, indicating substantial market potential [15]. - Various countries and companies are positioning themselves for commercialization, with U.S. firms announcing plans for fusion power plants as early as 2028 [15][16]. Industry Collaboration - China's nuclear fusion industry is evolving into a collaborative model involving state-led initiatives and private enterprises, with significant clusters in Hefei and Chengdu [17]. - Companies like Fusion New Energy and China Fusion Energy Co. are leading efforts in the sector, with substantial investments and projects underway [18]. Regulatory Environment - Recent legislative developments, such as the Atomic Energy Law, are expected to facilitate smoother commercialization of nuclear fusion technologies in China [18].