Fusion energy company Helion announced that it has started working on the site of Orion, its first fusion power plant, aimed at providing carbon-free energy to offtaker Microsoft by 2028.
Fusion, the process of combining two atoms to release energy, is seen as a potential source of abundant, zero-carbon power. Unlike fossil fuels, fusion does not emit carbon, and unlike nuclear fission, it does not generate highly radioactive waste. Large scale fusion energy generation has been elusive, however, given the need to create extremely high temperatures and pressure.
Founded in 2013, Helion has set a goal to build the world’s first fusion power plant. The company signed the first-ever fusion power purchase agreement in 2023 with Microsoft, to provide the tech giant with energy from its new plant, to be located in Malaga, Washington, with Constellation Energy serving as the power marketer.
The company said that with the land secured, and work beginning, it is on track to meet its goal to begin supplying power to Microsoft by 2028.
David Kirtley, Helion’s Co-Founder and CEO, said:
“Today is an important day – not just for Helion, but for the entire fusion industry – as we unleash a new era of energy independence and industrial renewal. Since we founded the company, we have been completely focused on preparing fusion technology for commercialization and getting electrons on the grid. Starting site work brings us one step closer to that vision.”
Helion’s fusion development strategy relies on rapid iteration and testing. Its seventh-generation prototype, Polaris, is expected to demonstrate the first electricity produced from fusion. With its prior prototype, Trenta, Helion became the first private company to reach a fuel temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius, a key benchmark for commercial fusion.
Microsoft’s agreement with Helion supports its goal of being carbon negative by 2030 and its vision to match 100% of its electricity consumption 100% of the time with zero-carbon sources.
Melanie Nakagawa, CSO and CVP of Energy, Connectivity, and Sustainability at Microsoft, said:
“Fusion represents an inspiring frontier in the world’s pursuit of clean and abundant power. While the path to commercial fusion is still unfolding, we’re proud to support Helion’s pioneering work here in Washington state as part of our broader commitment to investing in sustainable energy.”
