Talks and shows

Fusion energy: The power of the stars

Discover the science behind fusion energy and its potential to transform the current energy landscape.

A Own via Pixabay

Fusion energy—the power of the stars—offers us the possibility of a clean, sustainable energy future for all.  Dr Melanie Windridge gives a comprehensive overview of fusion energy, from its theoretical foundations to its practical applications, brought to life with fun demos from scientists at Tokamak Energy.



Explore this clean, near-limitless energy source's immense potential and find out the factors coming together to bring us closer than ever before.



We will ask why we need fusion in a world where renewables expansion continues apace. 



We will delve into the science behind fusion reactions, and learn about the different approaches to achieving fusion on Earth and the technologies being developed to harness this energy. 



We will explore history, progress and recent breakthroughs, as well as various experimental devices for studying fusion, including tokamaks such as JET and ITER, laser experiments such as NIF, and other privately-funded machines.



We will discuss the roles of private fusion companies and government labs in tackling the challenges that remain to be addressed for the commercialisation of fusion energy.



Whether you are a scientist, engineer, student, or simply curious about the future of energy, this lecture is sure to be enlightening. Join us for an engaging and educational journey to discover the future of energy production.

Event type

This is a theatre only event where the speakers and audience are together in our Theatre.

By booking to attend events at the Royal Institution, you confirm that you have read and accept the Ri's event terms and conditions. You also agree to abide by our code of conduct, and help to create a great experience for yourself and your fellow participants. Please note that Eventbrite adds a small booking fee to the amount paid for each ticket option.

For any queries regarding this event please get in touch by phone 020 7409 2992 or email events@ri.ac.uk.

About Melanie Windridge

Melanie Windridge
via Melanie Windridge

Dr Melanie Windridge is a specialist in fusion energy who helps people see the value, opportunities and excitement of fusion.  Melanie is the founder and CEO of Fusion Energy Insights, which keeps people up to date with developments in the growing fusion industry.  She has a PhD in plasma physics (fusion energy) from Imperial College London, where she remains an Academic Visitor, and she sits on the Advisory Boards of the UK Fusion Cluster and US non-profit Energy for the Common Good.  Melanie was previously UK Director of the Fusion Industry Association.  In 2022 she was elected a Fellow of the Clean Growth Leadership Network.  Melanie is the author of Aurora: In Search of the Northern Lights and Star Chambers: the race for fusion power, as well as writing for Forbes online.

For more information please visit www.melaniewindridge.co.uk and www.fusionenergyinsights.com 

Timing

Doors to the theatre will open at 6.45pm and the talk will begin at 7.00pm.

Accessibility

The event will take place on the first floor and there is step-free access from the street via lift.

The closest underground station is Green Park, which is step-free.

There is space at floor level in the theatre for wheelchair users.

Seating is usually unreserved for our events. If you and your group require seating reservations, please do let us know by emailing us at events@ri.ac.uk, and we’ll be more than happy to help.

Carers can receive a free ticket to an event by emailing events@ri.ac.uk.

Our theatre is equipped with an Audio Induction Loop. 

Covid guidelines

Face masks are no longer mandatory and wearing one in our Theatre and at other Ri events is at your discretion, however please do not attend the Ri if you are displaying Covid symptoms or, if you have tested, the result remains positive. Thank you for respecting other people and their choices, and for helping us keep all of our visitors and staff safe and well.

Event terms and conditions