Jing Ji Guan Cha Wang·2026-01-17 05:08Core Viewpoint - The implementation of the "Encouragement and Support for Controlled Nuclear Fusion" in the Atomic Energy Law of China is expected to drive investment and interest in the nuclear fusion sector, marking a potential shift in market focus from commercial aerospace and AI applications to nuclear fusion technology [2][3]. Investment and Market Dynamics - The A-share market experienced a style switch, with funds moving away from previously favored sectors like commercial aerospace and AI applications towards the "controlled nuclear fusion" sector, driven by recent positive industry news [2]. - Significant investments have been made in the nuclear fusion sector, including a record A-round financing of 1 billion yuan by Shanghai Xinghuan Fusion Technology Co., which indicates strong investor interest [2][14]. - Companies like China First Heavy Industries and China Nuclear Engineering have seen their stock prices surge, reflecting market enthusiasm for nuclear fusion concepts, despite these companies warning of limited current revenue from related projects [3][21]. Technological Advancements - The nuclear fusion industry is witnessing breakthroughs in technology, such as the successful excitation of high-temperature superconducting magnets to 20.8 Tesla, which is crucial for enhancing fusion power density [2][16]. - The development of high-temperature superconductors is making commercial nuclear fusion more feasible by allowing for smaller and more cost-effective fusion devices [9][10]. Energy Demand and Supply - The increasing demand for energy, particularly driven by AI and data centers, is creating a sense of urgency for alternative energy sources like nuclear fusion, which is seen as a potential solution to the looming energy supply challenges [4][5]. - The energy density of nuclear fusion is significantly higher than that of traditional fossil fuels and nuclear fission, making it an attractive option for future energy needs [6][12]. Market Projections - The global nuclear fusion equipment market is projected to reach an annual scale of 266 billion yuan by 2035, indicating substantial future market potential despite current challenges in achieving commercial viability [23]. - The timeline for achieving commercial nuclear fusion is optimistic, with expectations for experimental reactors by 2030 and commercial reactors by 2050 [25]. Challenges and Risks - Despite the optimism, significant challenges remain, including material durability under extreme conditions, tritium supply issues, and the need for advanced testing facilities to validate new materials [17][18][19]. - The current state of nuclear fusion technology is still in the experimental phase, and companies are facing a long path to commercial viability, with many listed companies clarifying that their current revenues from fusion-related activities are minimal [21][22].