Will fusion power get cheap? Probably not, suggests new research. Technologies like batteries and solar panels have seen dramatic drops in cost over time, but fusion's journey might be slower.

The study estimates fusion’s experience rate – the percentage by which costs drop as capacity doubles – at just 2% to 8%. This is slower than technologies like fission (2%) and much slower than common energy techs such as lithium-ion batteries (20%).

Despite billions in funding, cost reductions may take a long time. The technology’s complexity and the need for customization mean that significant price drops could be delayed.

The researchers suggest questions should be raised about current investment levels in fusion. With public spending on fusion rising, is it really the best use of our resources for decarbonization?

Reflections from MIT Technology Review also note that past predictions might not hold true: solar power was once seen as prohibitively expensive but saw unexpected growth.