Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS), a private U.S. company aiming to harness fusion power, announced it has applied to join PJM, the largest U.S. grid operator. This marks the first time a fusion energy firm is seeking to connect to a major power grid.
The company plans to open its fusion power plant in Virginia in the early 2030s. The application process is expected to take four to six years. Despite uncertainties about commercial viability, private investment in fusion energy is significant, with CFS having raised over $3 billion.
Demand for U.S. power is increasing, driven by data centers for AI, transportation electrification, and cryptocurrencies. Alphabet has already agreed to purchase power from CFS's plant. Bob Mumgaard, CFS co-founder and CEO, stated the application is a crucial step toward operating a fusion power plant by the early 2030s.
CFS's approximately 400-megawatt commercial plant, slated for construction to begin in 2027 or late this year, will be roughly half the size of a conventional fission nuclear reactor.