Fusion Innovation Research Engine Collaboratives
| Type | Program |
|---|---|
| Sponsor Organization | Office of Fusion Energy Sciences |
| Top Organization | Department of Energy |
| Creation Legislation | N/A |
| Website | Website |
| Purpose | To accelerate the development of fusion energy technologies by fostering collaboration between research institutions, industry, and government, focusing on overcoming key scientific and technological challenges for practical fusion power.[1] |
| Program Start | 2023 |
| Initial Funding | $180 million[2] |
| Duration | Until 2027 |
| Historic | Yes |
Fusion Innovation Research Engine (FIRE) Collaboratives is an initiative by the Office of Fusion Energy Sciences to bridge the gap between fusion science and the burgeoning fusion industry. By creating virtual, centrally managed teams or "collaboratives," FIRE aims to accelerate the practical application of fusion research, targeting the development of fusion energy systems that can contribute to a clean, sustainable energy future.[3]
Goals
- Overcome scientific and technological barriers to fusion commercialization.[4]
- Facilitate the transition from fusion research to practical applications.
- Foster a fusion innovation ecosystem that includes academia, industry, and national labs.
Organization
FIRE Collaboratives are managed by the Office of Fusion Energy Sciences (FES) within the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science. Each collaborative is led by a principal investigator or director from an academic or research institution, with funding managed by FES. The program operates through a competitive selection process for collaborative teams.
The leader of each collaborative might hold a title like **Director** or **Principal Investigator** of the respective collaborative.
Partners
- No specific partnerships are listed, but each FIRE collaborative involves a mix of national labs, universities, and industry partners.
History
Launched in 2023, FIRE Collaboratives were established to address the commercialization challenges of fusion energy, as outlined in DOE's strategic plan for fusion development. The first round of funding was announced in early 2023, selecting six collaboratives to work on critical areas like fusion materials, blanket technology, and system integration. This initiative represents a significant step in the DOE's efforts to realize fusion energy within this century.
Funding
The initial funding for the FIRE program was set at $180 million, spread over four years, with the first allocations made in 2023.[5] Funding supports research, development, and demonstration activities aimed at advancing fusion technology.
Implementation
Implementation involves:
- Formation of collaboratives focusing on different aspects of fusion technology.
- Conducting end-use inspired R&D with real-time adjustments based on results.
- Sharing data among collaboratives and with the broader fusion community for rapid progress.
The program is scheduled to run until 2027, with potential for extension based on outcomes.
Related
External links
- https://www.energy.gov/science/fes/fusion-innovation-research-engine
- wikipedia:Fusion Innovation Research Engine Collaboratives
Social media
- No specific social media accounts for FIRE Collaboratives; follow the Department of Energy for updates.
References
- ↑ "Fusion Innovation Research Engine". https://www.energy.gov/science/fes/fusion-innovation-research-engine. Retrieved January 30, 2025.
- ↑ "DOE Announces $180 Million to Advance Fusion Energy Technology". https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-announces-180-million-advance-fusion-energy-technology. Retrieved January 30, 2025.
- ↑ "Fusion Innovation Research Engine". https://www.energy.gov/science/fes/fusion-innovation-research-engine. Retrieved January 30, 2025.
- ↑ "Fusion Innovation Research Engine". https://www.energy.gov/science/fes/fusion-innovation-research-engine. Retrieved January 30, 2025.
- ↑ "DOE Announces $180 Million to Advance Fusion Energy Technology". https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-announces-180-million-advance-fusion-energy-technology. Retrieved January 30, 2025.