Richard Pearson explains what fusion energy is and its progress over the years and type of innovation and investments being done to progress this technology. This talk was part of TEDxWoodLane, held October 17, 2022, at White City House - Soho House, London. For more information about the event, please visit www.ted.com/tedx/events/51308 This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at ted.com/tedx Dr Richard Pearson is the co-founder of Kyoto Fusioneering Ltd, a Japanese fusion energy start-up launched in 2019. Richard serves as the company’s Chief Innovator, where his primary focus is on commercialisation and taking the company's technology to market. Despite being 31 years old, his research and current entrepreneurial exploits have provided him with expertise in fusion energy systems and innovation. His ideas and understanding of fusion commercialization, strategy and policy have seen him gain international recognition. He has spoken at several high-profile international events, and was recently appointed as the Guest Editor of the Journal of Fusion Energy. Richard has a background in mechanical and nuclear engineering, and holds a PhD in Fusion Engineering and Innovation from The Open University (UK). He is also a senior research associate (visiting) at both Kyoto University, Japan, and the University of Bristol, UK. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx