The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the ITER International Fusion Energy Organization have agreed to strengthen their cooperation in nuclear fusion research and related activities with the long-term goal of realizing fusion energy production on an industrial, power-plant scale.
Fusion research aims to develop methods to harness the power generated by the fusion of light nuclei, a process comparable to the energy production of stars. It holds the promise of abundant, safe and carbon-free energy.
IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano noted the importance of the new arrangements. “The challenge to achieve the goal of fusion power production can only be met through concerted international efforts. ITER’s impressive work plays a central role in this field,” Mr. Amano said. “We look forward to our intensified collaboration.”
Under the arrangements, ITER will share its experience related to nuclear fusion safety and radiation protection with the IAEA and its 171 Member States, including those who are not members of ITER. ITER’s information would play an important role for the potential development of IAEA safety standards related to nuclear fusion as well as relevant nuclear security guidance.
Original source: IAEA
Published on 19 June 2019
