Core Insights - The 2025 World Fusion Energy Group's second ministerial meeting and the 30th International Atomic Energy Agency Fusion Energy Conference were held in Chengdu, highlighting the significance of controllable nuclear fusion as the "ultimate energy" for humanity, which could reshape the global energy landscape and international cooperation [1] - China is strategically positioning itself to lead in the nuclear fusion sector through systematic industrial layout and national strategic planning, transitioning from a technology follower to a leader [3][5] National Layout - China's nuclear industry development is rooted in national planning, which supports steady industrial progress and reflects strategic considerations for moving from technology catch-up to industry leadership [3] - The country is leveraging early technological accumulation and deep participation in the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project to transition from a follower to a leader in the global fusion field [5] - Key locations for controllable nuclear fusion development in China include Shanghai, Chengdu, Hefei, and Langfang, with various critical devices being developed collaboratively [5][7] Industry Growth - China's nuclear technology application sector has a complete innovation chain, covering nearly 40 subfields, with an estimated output value growing from 300 billion yuan in 2015 to nearly 700 billion yuan in 2022, reflecting an annual growth rate of over 15% [8] - Sichuan province is a major hub for nuclear industry and technology utilization, with significant innovation and application potential, particularly in the development of the "China Circulation No. 3" and electromagnetic-driven fusion devices [9][10] Regional Development - Sichuan's support for the nuclear industry, especially in nuclear technology applications, is characterized by targeted policies aimed at fostering high-quality development in the nuclear medical industry by 2030 [10] - The province's approach to industrial layout is differentiated, allowing regions to develop specialized fields based on local resources, creating a comprehensive ecosystem in the nuclear industry [10] Chengdu's Role - Chengdu's strategic positioning aligns with the development of the fusion industry, as it has been designated as a center for economic, technological innovation, and international exchange [11][12] - The city hosts leading research institutions and has cultivated local enterprises that excel in specific fields, contributing to a robust industrial ecosystem [12][13] - The recent international fusion energy conference in Chengdu has further solidified the city's role in the nuclear industry, with the establishment of a global fusion energy research and training collaboration center [12][15] Future Plans - A comprehensive development plan for the controllable nuclear fusion industry has been released, focusing on technology research, results transformation, and the establishment of a global technology research hub [15] - The plan aims to create a closed-loop industrial chain and foster new business models, contributing to Chengdu's vision of becoming a model for sustainable urban development and achieving the "ultimate energy solution" for humanity [15]

Core Insights - The article highlights China's significant breakthroughs in nuclear fusion technology, positioning it as a key player in the global energy landscape and potentially reshaping the competition in energy technology [3][12]. Group 1: China's Breakthroughs in Fusion Technology - China's advancements in nuclear fusion have disrupted the long-standing dominance of the US and Europe in this field, prompting a reevaluation of global energy competition [3][4]. - The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) director stated that China's contributions could accelerate the commercialization timeline of fusion energy by at least 10 years [4][12]. - China's EAST facility achieved a world record by maintaining a temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius for 1066 seconds, surpassing similar devices in the US and Japan [4][6]. Group 2: Technological Developments and Achievements - China has established a multi-faceted approach to fusion technology, characterized by "stage leap + device upgrades + technological independence," leading to significant milestones [6][8]. - The "Chinese Circulation No. 3" device reached a dual milestone of 1.17 billion degrees for atomic nuclei and 1.6 billion degrees for electrons, showcasing China's strength in this domain [6][8]. - The development of a tungsten-copper alloy for reactor walls demonstrates China's innovative capabilities, with a lifespan three times longer than international counterparts [8][12]. Group 3: Collaborative Efforts and Global Impact - China emphasizes a collaborative approach in fusion research, participating actively in global initiatives like ITER and sharing experimental data with other countries [12][18]. - The establishment of a national fusion industry alliance and innovation consortium reflects China's commitment to fostering a cooperative environment for fusion technology development [8][12]. - The potential for fusion energy to provide a clean, safe, and nearly limitless energy source could significantly alleviate reliance on fossil fuels and address climate change [12][13]. Group 4: Future Prospects and Applications - The ongoing advancements in fusion technology may lead to a future where fusion power plants work alongside solar and wind energy to create a "zero-carbon energy network" [13][15]. - Small fusion devices could provide stable power in remote areas or islands, and fusion energy could support interstellar travel in space exploration [15][18]. - China's progress in fusion technology not only showcases its scientific prowess but also offers developing countries alternative energy pathways, enabling them to leapfrog traditional energy routes [13][18].

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].

Investment Rating - The report maintains an investment rating of "Leading the Market - A" [6] Core Insights - The fusion energy industry is experiencing a "race-like development" with significant capital influx, as it is viewed as a long-term solution for clean and stable energy [1] - Approximately 50 private fusion companies globally have raised over $9 billion, with several projects aiming for grid connection by around 2035 [1] - The commercial vision of fusion energy is driving intense competition among governments and enterprises in technology, capital, and policy [1] Summary by Sections 1. Fusion Energy Development - The fusion energy sector is transitioning from scientific research to engineering validation and industrial promotion, with notable advancements in both domestic and international projects [1][2] - In the U.S., Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS) has partnered with Google to optimize fusion control and has established the largest fusion power purchase agreement globally [1] - Helion Energy plans to construct the world's first fusion power plant, aiming to supply 50 MW to Microsoft's data center by 2028 [1] 2. Market Performance - The report notes that from July 19 to August 1, the Shanghai Composite Index rose by 0.72%, while the public utilities index fell by 2.34% [3] 3. Industry Dynamics - China's fusion energy industry is driven by a collaboration between state-owned enterprises and private companies, forming a multi-faceted research and development ecosystem [2] - The "national team" focuses on large Tokamak devices, while private enterprises are accelerating commercialization through modular and miniaturized technologies [2] 4. Investment Portfolio and Recommendations - The report suggests focusing on key players in the thermal power sector, such as Sheneng Co., Zhejiang Energy, and Anhui Energy, which are expected to perform well despite slight coal price increases [13] - In the green energy sector, it recommends quality operators like Fuzhou Energy and Zhongmin Energy, as well as virtual power plants like Hekang New Energy and Guoneng Rixin [13] - For gas companies, it highlights the importance of monitoring domestic gas pricing policies and suggests focusing on national gas companies like China Gas and upstream-downstream integrated firms like Jiufeng Energy and Xin'ao Co. [13] 5. Pricing Trends - In August 2025, the average transaction price for electricity in Jiangsu was 393.8 RMB/MWh, up 0.72% from the benchmark price, while in Guangdong, it was 372.32 RMB/MWh, down 17.81% [11] - The average price of thermal coal in the Bohai Rim region was reported at 665 RMB/ton, with coal inventories at key power plants increasing slightly [11] 6. Future Outlook - The report anticipates that by 2050, China will achieve commercial fusion power stations, with significant advancements expected in the 2030s [44][46]