Plant efficiency: a sensitivity analysis of the capacity factor for fusion power plants with high recirculated power

Abstract The plant efficiency of a nuclear fusion power is considered. During nominal operation, the determined by thermodynamic and recirculated fraction. However, on average reactor operates below power, even when long shutdown periods for large maintenance are left outside averaging. Hence, next to fraction capacity factor must be factored in. An expression which incorporates both factors given. It shown that combination high low factor, results in poor efficiency. This due fact remains if it runs at reduced output power. argued that, least first generation plants, this likely occur. Worked out example calculations given models conceptual study. Finally, impact competitiveness energy market discussed. analysis stresses importance development designs with