The US Department of Energy (DOE) has unveiled a fusion energy strategy to accelerate the viability of commercial fusion energy and potentially provide a safe, abundant, and zero-carbon-emitting energy source. The strategy focuses on closing the scientific and technological gaps required for a commercial fusion pilot plant and preparing for commercial deployment. It includes three pillars: closing science and technology gaps, preparing for commercial deployment, and building external partnerships. The DOE views the development of fusion energy as a global race and aims to stay ahead by supporting plans to achieve energy abundance, address technology gaps, and manage potential risks, such as proliferation issues and waste generation. The department believes that fusion energy has the potential to revolutionize the energy industry, ensure energy abundance and security, and meet the growing clean energy needs of the US and the world. In alignment with the new strategy, the DOE announced a $180 million funding opportunity for Fusion Innovative Research Engine (Fire) collaboratives to enhance US-based manufacturing and supply chains. This funding aims to kick-start public-private partnerships for research and development and accelerate fusion research for private-sector-led fusion pilot plants. The strategy also includes a proposed fusion energy public-private consortium framework to generate funding through collaboration between state and local government, private entities, and philanthropic sources. Fusion, the process seen in the sun and stars, involves fusing light atoms like hydrogen at high pressures and temperatures. The DOE's initiatives aim to bring fusion energy to technical and commercial viability, while managing associated risks and leveraging potential benefits for various applications, including hydrogen production, industrial heat, carbon capture, and desalination.