Americans’ Views of Fusion Energy: Implications for Sustainable Public Support

Abstract

Efforts to capitalize on recent advances in fusion energy hold promise for sustainable clean energy. Realization of this promise will require addressing both technical and social challenges. In this paper we focus on the latter, using survey data from a representative sample of the U.S. public to evaluate prospects for sustainable public support for fusion. We demonstrate that while fusion is broadly viewed in a generally positive light across age, gender, and partisan groups, most people concede that they have little knowledge about the technology. The array of images and emotions currently associated with fusion energy technologies tends to be positive, particularly in comparison with those evoked by traditional fission nuclear energy. Trust for regulators and operators of prospective fusion energy facilities is currently quite high and is strongly associated with support for fusion energy. Positive views of fusion also get a boost from technological optimism, but the persistent connection among some Americans to fears of nuclear technologies tends to reduce that support. Implications are that while fusion currently enjoys broad public support, developers and regulators need to exercise care to assure that accidents, overly optimistic claims, and poorly designed and executed regulations do not inflame perceived risks and distrust. As with nuclear fission, continuing investments in a regulatory process for fusion that is grounded in trust, robust technological designs, and a culture of responsible safety will be needed to sustain public support.