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KPBS Midday Edition

The Promise Of Nuclear Fusion

Construction of the ITER nuclear fusion plant in southern France, May 2020.
ITER Organization/EJF Riche
Construction of the ITER nuclear fusion plant in southern France, May 2020.
It’s heroic stuff, nothing short of a revolution in energy production that could save the planet! Nuclear fusion holds the promise of endless clean, cheap energy … the big game-changer for climate change. But it’s all been a fantasy, till now.

Nuclear fusion holds the promise of endless clean energy and it could be a big game-changer in the fight against climate change. But it’s all been a fantasy, until now.

A major international project is underway in France that could pave the way for commercial nuclear fusion power plants. And, San Diego-based General Atomics is playing a key role.

Rob Nikolewski, who covers energy for The San Diego Union-Tribune, wrote about the construction of the world's largest nuclear fusion power device, also known as the ITER project. He joined Midday Edition on Tuesday to talk about the future of nuclear fusion.

A big decision awaits some voters this July as the race for San Diego County’s Supervisor District 1 seat heats up. Are you ready to vote? Check out the KPBS Voter Hub to learn about the candidates, the key issues the board is facing and how you can make your voice heard.