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Big, bigger, biggest: Record-breaking energy innovations

26:04

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August 21, 2026

Nuclear fusion is nearing a breakthrough that could redefine the future of clean energy. Also: Finland's XXL nuclear plant, Germany's mega battery, and Africa's hydrogen revolution.

Can nuclear fusion become a reliable energy source? The challenge is sustaining plasma under extreme conditions. Research facilities in France, South Korea, China and Germany have set new records. In May 2025, the Wendelstein 7-X reactor in Greifswald achieved a world record, maintaining this crucial plasma for 43 seconds. Fusion is far safer than fission and produces no long-lived radioactive waste. By contrast, fission accidents can release massive amounts of radioactive material, as happened in Fukushima and Chernobyl. We also visit Finland’s Olkiluoto 3 reactor, a mega battery project in Germany that promises to ensure reliable renewable energy, and a wastewater plant that's turning into an energy hub. And we explore how green hydrogen from Africa could power the global energy transition.

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Tomorrow Today — The Science Show

Dive in to the fascinating world of science with Tomorrow Today. Your weekly dose of science knowledge. A show for everyone who's curious -- about our cosmos and how it works.

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