Global Leaders Set Path for Fusion Energy’s Future as Limitless Power Source Amidst Surge in Global Collaboration

Director General Grossi also spoke of the potential for fusion to offer a secure, long-term solution for global energy demands, especially given the urgency of transitioning from fossil fuels.

Today marked a significant milestone in global energy development as government ministers and senior officials from dozens of countries gathered in Rome for the first-ever ministerial meeting of the World Fusion Energy Group (WFEG). Hosted at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the event underscored the growing international commitment to making fusion technology a viable and sustainable energy source.

High-profile speakers opened the event, including International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and Italy’s Undersecretary of State Alfredo Mantovano, representing Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, along with Environment and Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, also addressed attendees, emphasizing Italy’s legacy of scientific innovation and commitment to advancing global energy solutions.

The conference, co-hosted by the IAEA and the Italian government, brought together ministers, industry leaders, scientists, and policymakers to discuss the current advancements in fusion energy and the path forward. WFEG discussions centred on three primary topics: the present state of fusion technology, the vital role of cross-border partnerships and public-private collaborations, and sustainable investment in the fusion industry.

“The fusion sector is experiencing an unprecedented transformation, driven by scientific breakthroughs and private investment,” said IAEA Director General Grossi, who presented two new IAEA reports—World Fusion Outlook 2024 and Fusion Key Elements—which outline recent advancements and the future roadmap for fusion energy. Grossi emphasized that the IAEA is expanding its support in areas such as fusion engineering, environmental considerations, regulatory frameworks, and the socio-economic impact of fusion energy.

Undersecretary Mantovano highlighted Italy’s leading role in scientific research, noting the country’s world-class expertise in nuclear engineering and the substantial contributions its research institutions have made to fusion development. “Italy’s involvement in the WFEG speaks to our technological excellence and commitment to global advancement,” Mantovano said. “Our centres of excellence and universities are at the forefront of training internationally acclaimed nuclear experts, laying the foundation for future breakthroughs.”

The momentum for fusion energy has intensified with recent technical advances and increased private sector investment, fueling optimism that fusion could be a clean, safe, and nearly unlimited energy source. Grossi noted the enthusiasm, stating, “What was once a distant dream is now a tangible goal, with fusion’s realization within reach.” He stressed the importance of continued investment in research and collaboration to address the remaining scientific and engineering challenges of fusion energy.

Director General Grossi also spoke of the potential for fusion to offer a secure, long-term solution for global energy demands, especially given the urgency of transitioning from fossil fuels. “Fusion’s clean, safe power aligns with global goals for sustainable development, addressing both energy and environmental needs for future generations.”

Italian leaders highlighted the role of the WFEG in fostering a new era of international energy diplomacy, encouraging member countries to transcend national interests to address shared challenges in the energy sector. Mantovano remarked, “Today’s discussions pave the way for North-South cooperation, laying the groundwork for a new era in energy diplomacy.”

With the recent unveiling of the World Fusion Outlook 2024, WFEG member countries now have a unified guide for advancing fusion technology, which includes recommendations on international supply chains, workforce development, and public-private partnership models. The conference concluded with a shared commitment to maintain momentum through continued collaboration, investment, and policy alignment as the world nears a historic breakthrough in harnessing fusion as a safe and limitless energy source.