Commences construction of the first-ever fusion power plant globally, funded by Microsoft, in the state of Washington.
In a significant step towards a sustainable energy future, Helion Energy has commenced construction work on its Orion fusion power plant in Chelan County, Washington. This development marks a milestone in Helion's mission to deliver commercially viable fusion electricity to the grid.
The site, leased from the Chelan County Public Utility District, was chosen for its access to power transmission infrastructure and an established history of energy innovation. Helion has been working closely with local and state government agencies, Tribal Nations, and the public to navigate siting and permitting requirements since 2023.
Helion made headlines in 2023 when it signed the world’s first power purchase agreement (PPA) for fusion energy with Microsoft, committing to supply electricity from the fusion plant by 2028. Constellation Energy is designated as the power marketer for this agreement. Helion remains on schedule to meet this 2028 target, with ongoing site excavation, foundation work, and permitting efforts underway.
Microsoft has expressed strong support for Helion’s pioneering fusion work, viewing it as a key part of their broader sustainable energy commitments. Melanie Nakagawa, CSO & CVP Energy, Connectivity, and Sustainability at Microsoft, emphasized the importance of fusion energy.
The Orion plant aims to become the world's first commercial fusion power plant. Helion's rapid technical progress over the past decade—including achievement of critical fusion temperature thresholds in prototype machines—underpins confidence in reaching commercial fusion electricity production within the set timeframe.
As construction progresses, Helion continues to work through the remaining regulatory steps required to construct and operate the plant. With Microsoft's backing and Helion's technical prowess, the future of fusion energy is looking brighter than ever.
The project partners, Helion Energy and Microsoft, are also exploring potential collaborations in the realm of science and technology, with a vision to revolutionize data centers' energy efficiency. Moreover, the financial sector has taken notice, as Helion's success in securing a power purchase agreement (PPA) for fusion energy with Microsoft has opened new avenues for investment in emerging clean technologies, such as fusion and sports stadium lighting.
