China is rapidly emerging as a global leader in the race toward commercial fusion energy. With massive state-backed funding, cutting-edge research facilities, and strategic international collaborations, the country is positioning itself to play a defining role in shaping the future of clean, limitless power.

What comes after building the fusion power plant? It’s just the beginning. From achieving net energy gain to earning public trust, the road ahead remains long and complex. Here are the five biggest challenges fusion must overcome before it can truly power the world.

As fusion energy races toward commercialization, the spotlight often shines on breakthroughs inside the reactor. But the real challenge may lie outside the core, in the infrastructure, workforce, supply chains, and financing systems that will turn scientific success into global impact. Here's why the future of clean energy depends on more than science.

The first half of 2025 saw fusion energy investment pivot from speculative excitement to strategic capital deployment. With capital now flowing strategically into companies with clear commercial roadmaps, fusion is rapidly accelerating its path to commercialization, cementing its place 'Beyond the Hype' as a viable and essential asset.

As fusion energy moves closer to commercialization, its success depends not only on scientific breakthroughs but also on smart, adaptive regulation. While some countries are taking the lead through strategic investments and national policies, critical regulatory gaps still persist. What kind of collaboration is needed between governments and industry players to turn the promise of fusion energy into a global reality?