Bill Gates-Backed Company Files License Application for First Commercial Fusion Plant in the US

U.S. nuclear fusion energy developer Type One Energy, in collaboration with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), has submitted a first-of-its-kind license application to regulators. The company, which is also backed by Bill Gates, aims to build a commercial-scale fusion power plant on a former fossil fuel power plant site.

Project Infinity and Its Phases

The project, named "Project Infinity," will be implemented at the retired Bull Run coal plant site in Clinton, Tennessee. The project consists of two main phases. In the first phase, a prototype fusion machine called "Infinity One" and a workforce training center, planned to be operational by 2029, will be established. The second and final phase involves the construction of the "Infinity Two" commercial fusion power plant with a 350 Megawatt electric (MWe) capacity. According to a letter of intent from TVA, construction of this plant could begin as early as 2028 if final approvals are received.

New Regulatory Framework and Collaboration

The application follows the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission's (NRC) 2023 decision to regulate nuclear fusion technology under a low-risk category. The application is based on a new model that evaluates fusion machines under the same regulatory category as particle accelerators and nuclear medical equipment. This model aims to streamline the licensing process by recognizing fusion's unique safety profile.

The project reflects a strategic partnership between the private sector (Type One Energy) and a public utility provider (TVA). By relocating its headquarters to the region, Type One Energy is collaborating closely with TVA to repurpose the old coal plant infrastructure for clean energy production.

Technological Approach: Stellarator Design

Type One Energy is developing a "stellarator" type fusion reactor, which differs from traditional "tokamak" designs. Stellarators use complex three-dimensional magnetic coils to confine plasma. While this design promises more stable and continuous operation by preventing instabilities seen in tokamaks, it is considered more challenging from an engineering perspective. To accelerate the development of this technology, the company signed a series of agreements in 2025 and has received over $160 million in total venture capital investment.

The project's progress is expected to contribute to Tennessee's goal of becoming a global hub for nuclear innovation. The process will continue subject to the final evaluation and approval of the authorized bodies.