EC power management in ITER for NTM control: the path from the commissioning phase to demonstration discharges

Time dependent simulations that evolve consistently the magnetic equilibrium and plasma pressure profiles and the width and frequency rotation of magnetic islands under the effect of the Electron Cyclotron feedback system are used to assess whether the control of NTMs on ITER is compatible with other simulataneous functionalities of the EC system, like core heating and current profile tailoring, or sawtooth control. Results indicate that the power needs for control can be reduced if the EC power is reserved and if pre-emptive control is used as opposed to an active search for an already developed island.