Bringing fusion energy to the grid using artificial intelligence

The article discusses the challenges in developing a viable fusion energy source by optimizing complex fusion devices known as stellarators.
A project led by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) aims to accelerate the design of these devices using artificial intelligence (AI).
The project, called StellFoundry, seeks to replace lengthy traditional calculations with digital surrogates, enabling quick testing of numerous stellarator configurations.
StellFoundry’s collaboration among 30 researchers from universities, software companies, and national labs aims to create faster approximations and integrate different stellarator computer programs.
The project aligns with the DOE’s initiatives to accelerate scientific discovery using AI and a national strategy for commercial fusion energy development.
Using AI, scientists aim to determine plasma turbulence and other features quickly, thereby speeding up the design process of stellarators.
The ultimate goal is to enhance energy resilience and enable further advancements in fusion science and technology, despite the inherent difficulties in integrating various computational tools.

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