Google invests in TAE Technologies Fusion Power
TAE Technologies, a company pushing the boundaries of fusion energy, has successfully closed another significant funding round. The $150 million injection comes from a mix of existing investors, including tech giant Google, energy company Chevron, and New Enterprise Associates. This marks TAE's twelfth funding round, bringing its total investment to approximately $1.8 billion, solidifying its position as a leading player in the fusion energy sector.
Technological Advancements
TAE's innovative approach to fusion has evolved significantly. Early research involved a complex process, but recent breakthroughs have streamlined the procedure. The company successfully eliminated the need for firing two plasma balls to initiate a reaction, a pivotal advancement that simplifies the reactor design, reducing both cost and operational complexity. This simplification promises to accelerate the path towards commercial viability.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence
The collaboration between TAE and Google extends beyond financial support. Since 2014, Google's computer scientists have leveraged machine learning to optimize TAE's fusion process. This AI-driven optimization has drastically reduced the time required for experimental processes, from months to hours, significantly accelerating progress towards achieving the necessary plasma temperatures.
Currently, TAE's reactor achieves plasmas heated to 70 million degrees Celsius. While impressive, the company aims to reach a considerably higher temperature of 1 billion degrees Celsius for its commercial reactor – a critical milestone in achieving sustainable fusion energy.
With further funding anticipated, TAE projects grid-ready electron delivery sometime in the early 2030s. This ambitious timeline reflects the company's commitment and the potential transformative impact of its fusion technology.
Source: TechCrunch