[Moonman62]

I like the unpredictability and wide range of what LENR devices may eventually be able to do. Major technological advances set off decades of innovation that generate new wealth, opportunity, and progress across the globe — and especially so for free societies.

LENR is nothing compared to the potential of perpetual motion.

[Rockingham]

An insult -- to which I do not take offense -- is not an argument. Unlike perpetual motion, there have been numerous, scientifically verified demonstrations of anomalous heat energy that is best explained through LENR. The outstanding issues are the precise scientific explanations for such effects, what new physics is involved, if any, and whether useful devices can be developed and brought into widespread use.

Broadly, I think that LENR is on a path of development similar to those of steam engines, electric motors, and manned rockets. Although the underlying physical phenomena were long recognized, it took decades of effort by many minds and hands before useful devices were invented and the essential scientific principles elucidated.

In those examples, a critical phase occurred at which there had been enough progress for cautious businessmen and governments to invest substantial sums for the sake of creating and benefiting from fashioning technological advances into practical devices. From the substantial investment by Cherokee Partners investment, I surmise that a model of Rossi's ECAT has been proved to be viable as an early production prototype. One or more competing devices may soon attract similar backing.

Or, as you suggest, Rossi and others are running a new version of the perpetual motion scam. On balance, I think that is unlikely.