Sam Altman’s Fusion Power Bet Just Got Hotter Than The Sun

Forbes Business

by Alex Knapp, Forbes Staff

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Fusion power is closer than ever to becoming a commercial reality, thanks in part to significant advancements led by investors like Sam Altman. This breakthrough technology promises to provide nearly limitless clean energy, surpassing the intense heat of the sun to achieve sustained fusion reactions on Earth. The potential for fusion power could revolutionize industries, reduce carbon emissions, and address global energy demands in ways that traditional renewables cannot. For businesses, this development could mean lower energy costs, a competitive edge in sustainable practices, and opportunities in emerging energy markets. In addition to fusion power, the article highlights other groundbreaking innovations. Data storage solutions capable of preserving information for 10,000 years are being developed, addressing the growing need for long-term data integrity in industries like healthcare, finance, and digital archives. This technology could have profound implications for recordkeeping, cultural preservation, and scientific research. The piece also addresses concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) and job displacement, offering a nuanced perspective. While AI will undoubtedly automate certain tasks, it is unlikely to completely replace human workers. Instead, the focus should be on retraining and upskilling employees to work alongside AI systems, ensuring that businesses can adapt to this new technological landscape. For readers interested in business and finance, these developments underscore the importance of innovation in staying competitive. Fusion power could create entirely new industries while reshaping existing ones, offering investors and companies opportunities for growth. Similarly, advancements in data storage and AI present both challenges and rewards, requiring strategic planning and adaptation to remain viable in a rapidly evolving market. In summary, the potential commercialization of fusion power, along with breakthroughs in data storage and AI, represents a transformative era for business and finance. These innovations not only promise to solve some of humanity's most pressing challenges but also open up new avenues for economic growth and sustainable practices. As these technologies continue to develop, businesses must stay informed and proactive to seize the opportunities they present.

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/20/2026