When fusion energy is successful, what happen to other sources of energy?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the potential impact of successful fusion energy on other alternative energy sources, such as solar and wind. Participants explore the implications of fusion becoming a viable energy source, including its cost, efficiency, and whether it would render other alternatives unnecessary.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether, if fusion energy becomes successful and cost-effective, there would still be a role for alternative energy sources like solar and wind.
  • Another participant expresses skepticism about the timeline for fusion energy, referencing past expectations and questioning its cleanliness and feasibility.
  • A later reply suggests that the emergence of fusion energy could potentially overshadow other alternatives, although it acknowledges the challenges involved.
  • One participant provides a link to a related discussion, implying that the question may have been partially addressed elsewhere.
  • Another participant concludes that pursuing both fusion and alternative energy sources is advisable, given the uncertainty surrounding the timeline for fusion technology.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus; there are multiple competing views regarding the future role of alternative energy sources in light of potential fusion advancements.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the timeline and feasibility of fusion energy, as well as its potential environmental impact. The discussion reflects a range of assumptions about the future of energy technology.

kevin_tee
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Hi, I have a question that might involve politics so I post it here.

In the near future when fusion energy become successful, cheap, low-cost, small size, high above break-even point, etc. are there any role left for other alternative energy such as solar, wind, etc? Do we need those alternative anymore? It seems that fusion energy will make other alternatives become redundant.

Thank you.
 
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Would be nice. But it's always the near future. Was like that when I went to university in 1971 and now it still is. The etc. you mention is also pretty tough: will it be clean enough when it comes, IF it comes ...
 
Thank for reply, you basically mean that when it comes, it will blow other alternative energy out the water right? But it is very tough.
 
Thanks for the link, I read it and I conclude that we should do both because fusion is still faraway.
 

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