The recently concluded COP28, a climate change conference, has underscored the significance of nuclear fusion in mitigating the impact of climate change by 2050. Recognizing the potential of nuclear fusion as a clean and carbon-free energy source, the International Atomic Energy Association (IAEA) has established a World Nuclear Energy Group to explore the effective utilization of energy produced through nuclear fusion.
Engineering and Technological Breakthroughs
Ongoing research and development efforts are placing engineering and technology innovations at the forefront of commercializing fusion. Breakthroughs in diverse areas such as reactors, magnetic and inertial confinement systems, and optical systems for heating plasma are instilling optimism for the future. As a sustainable alternative to various energy supply systems, nuclear fusion is gaining traction as a beacon of hope for clean energy.
The goal of nuclear fusion on Earth is to replicate the energy generation process of the sun, which has been providing energy to Earth for billions of years through nuclear fusion. Recent advancements in fusion research and technology have elevated hopes for harnessing fusion energy on a commercial scale.
Global Patent Landscape
Innovation in high technology is often measured by the number of patents filed in a particular area. A study over the last 20 years (2002 to 2021) reveals an average annual growth of 8.8% in patent filings, with the last ten years witnessing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.1%. Notably, patent filings have emanated from key players such as the USA, China, Japan, South Korea, and Russia.
Private industries, start-ups, academic and research institutions, and government-funded agencies have actively contributed to patent filings, with the private sector constituting 57% of filings by the top 30 global filers. While developed countries lead in patent filings, the share of developing countries remains relatively low.
International Collaboration
The complexity of advancing and implementing advanced technologies necessitates international cooperation. Around 50 countries are reported to have their own research programs in nuclear fusion, fostering bilateral and multilateral cooperation arrangements. Initiatives like the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) and IAEA play crucial roles in guiding fusion research and technology development.
The principle of mutuality, reciprocity, and equity is emphasized in sharing Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) and knowledge. Cooperation at the international level, facilitated by organizations like ITER, allows member nations to benefit from global innovations driven by patents and shared know-how.
Role of the Private Sector
The fusion landscape is not limited to government initiatives; the private sector is actively contributing to advancements in fusion technology. Presently, 43 start-ups are engaged in fusion technology research and development, backed by a substantial private investment of around $6.2 billion. Private investments are expected to play a pivotal role in realizing the potential of fusion energy.
Collaborations among private sector entities, universities, and publicly funded agencies are on the rise. With hundreds of Intellectual Property Rights expected to be generated globally, a complex supply chain of inventions essential for nuclear fusion production is emerging.
Evolving Regulatory Frameworks
Countries with high patent filings are supported by robust patent laws that allow protection of fusion-related inventions. Some nations are expediting the protection of research results and evolving regulatory frameworks for the utilization of fusion energy. India, with a strong foundation in fusion research, is urged to revisit patent laws and regulations to promote inventions, especially by the private sector.
Invention-friendly laws will contribute to achieving mutuality, reciprocity, and equity in agreements related to the sharing of knowledge, technology, and engineering solutions. As around 50 countries engage in nuclear fusion research, a streamlined regulatory framework becomes essential to expedite the commercialization of fusion energy.
India’s Position and Opportunity
As a member nation of ITER, India is positioned to be an early beneficiary of global innovations. The country’s extensive experience in nuclear research enhances its chances of playing a leading role in fusion technology. A robust Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio, especially patents, will further elevate India’s standing in the fusion journey.
Tracking patents filed and granted globally, along with promoting research in fusion, can position India as a leading partner in the fusion energy landscape. The urgency in commercializing fusion energy emphasizes the need for streamlined processes and preparations to harness the potential of this transformative technology.