FUSION POWER-PLANT ECONOMICS

The rationale, methodology, and updated comparative results of cost pr ojections for magnetic-fusion-energy central-station electric power pl ants are considered. Changing market and regulatory conditions, partic ularly in the U.S., prompt fundamental reconsideration of what constit utes a competitive future energy-source technology and has implication s for the direction and emphasis of appropriate near-term research and development programs, for fusion and other advanced generation system s.