Global energy security and sustainability have become top priorities for policymakers worldwide. Rising uncertainties in energy supply, environmental concerns, and the adverse effects of dependence on fossil fuels have led countries to seek alternative energy solutions. However, this pursuit is not solely about meeting energy demands; it also involves gaining a strategic advantage on the international stage. China is taking significant steps toward energy security and is engaged in fierce competition to establish global leadership in the energy sector.
As one of the world’s largest energy consumers, China has long relied heavily on coal and imported fossil fuels. This dependency brings economic uncertainties and leads to severe environmental issues. Carbon emissions from fossil fuels and fluctuations in energy supply pose critical risks to China’s long-term energy security. Therefore, the Beijing administration is turning to alternative energy sources to establish a sustainable and self-sufficient energy system.
As of 2023, China holds a dominant market share in global solar panel production. By leading solar panel manufacturing and making significant investments in wind energy capacity, China has solidified its position as a global leader in renewable energy[i]. However, due to the intermittent nature of these renewable sources, there is a need for more stable and continuous energy technologies to ensure energy supply security. This is where fusion energy comes into play, offering nearly limitless and clean energy production potential, making it a critical component of China’s energy future.
Fusion energy not only provides an environmentally friendly solution but also ensures long-term energy security, supporting China’s industry and economic growth as a strategic asset. In this regard, China’s “Artificial Sun,” the Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) reactor, set a new world record on January 20, 2025, by sustaining high-temperature plasma confinement for 1,066 seconds.[ii] This historic achievement is considered a crucial milestone in transforming fusion energy into a sustainable and commercially viable energy source.
Fusion energy mimics the energy production process of the sun and has the potential to provide nearly unlimited, clean energy. However, to achieve controlled fusion on Earth, extremely high temperatures (over 100 million degrees Celsius) must be reached and maintained for extended periods. China’s recent success with the EAST reactor demonstrates significant progress in the feasibility of this technology. The ultimate goal of an artificial sun is to create nuclear fusion like the sun, providing humanity with an infinite, clean energy source and enabling space exploration beyond the solar system.
Song Yuntao, Director of the Institute of Plasma Physics under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP), emphasizes that ensuring fusion reactors operate stably and efficiently for long durations is crucial for constructing a commercial-scale fusion power plant in the future.[iii] The progress achieved by EAST marks a significant milestone in China’s goal to develop a commercial fusion reactor by 2050. If this goal is met, China will not only secure its own energy needs but also establish itself as a global leader in fusion technology, gaining a strategic advantage in the global energy market.
China’s ambition to develop a commercial-scale fusion reactor by 2050 holds the potential to transform energy production and create significant opportunities in global energy security and strategic relations. Leadership in fusion energy could position China not only as an energy producer but also as a key player in shaping global energy policies. If achieved, China will strengthen its dominance in the global energy market by commercializing fusion technology, making it one of the most influential actors in the energy sector. This advancement will reinforce China’s energy security and expand its influence in global energy management.
Progress in fusion energy will provide China with strategic advantages not only in its domestic market but also in international markets. By increasing the export of fusion technology, China could become a crucial partner for developing countries, offering clean and sustainable energy solutions. This will enhance China’s capacity to export energy technologies, solidifying its position in the global energy market and granting it significant economic and political leverage.
In conclusion, China’s advancements in fusion energy play a critical role in securing its energy future and establishing leadership in the global energy market. The potential of fusion energy can transform China into a global player in energy technology, ensuring its energy security while providing strategic advantages. The goal of developing a commercial fusion reactor by 2050 will not only strengthen China’s domestic energy security but also position it as a major influencer in the global energy landscape. These developments will facilitate energy exports, foster collaborations with developing nations, and increase China’s role in global energy governance. Leadership in fusion energy will grant China substantial long-term economic and political gains.
Ece ÖNÜR
[i] “2023’s record solar surge explained in six charts”, Ember, https://ember-energy.org/latest-insights/2023s-record-solar-surge-explained-in-six-charts/?utm_source=chatgpt.com, (Access date: 30.01.2025).
[ii] “China’s artificial sun burns for 1000+ secs, creates record in fusion research”, Hindustan Times, https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/china-artificial-sun-fusion-reasearch-east-asipp-science-fusion-reactor-technology-101738057726044.html, (Access date: 30.01.2025).
[iii] “China Focus: Chinese “artificial sun” sets new record in milestone step toward fusion power generation”, Xinhua, https://english.news.cn/20250120/1d4e392ccaef48f29e8e9cdd0f9360c5/c.html, (Access date: 30.01.2025).