Helion begins construction on Orion fusion power plant in Washington

US-based fusion energy company Helion has announced the start of construction on the site of its new fusion power plant, Orion, in Malaga, Washington.

The development follows an environmental review process that concluded with a mitigated determination of non-significance (MDNS) under the State Environmental Policy Act.

The site in Chelan County is leased from Chelan County Public Utilities District and was selected for its strategic advantages, including transmission access and a history of energy innovation.

Since 2023, Helion has been proactively engaging with stakeholders at various levels – local and state authorities, Tribal Nations and residents – laying the groundwork for siting and permitting decisions.

The company is currently working on securing the remaining permit requirements to construct and operate Orion.

Helion’s strategy of rapid iteration and testing has allowed the company to make consistent advancements towards developing a commercial fusion machine.

The company’s seventh-generation prototype, Polaris, will be the first to generate electricity from fusion.

Previously, with its Trenta prototype, Helion became the first private company to reach a fuel temperature of 100 million degrees Celsius, a milestone typically regarded as essential for the operation of a commercial fusion power plant.

Helion co-founder CEO David Kirtley stated: “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 commercialisation and getting electrons on the grid. Starting site work brings us one step closer to that vision.”

In 2023, Helion entered its first power purchase agreement (PPA) to supply energy to Microsoft from the Orion fusion power plant, with Constellation Energy acting as the power marketer.

With site works now initiated, Helion is on track to deliver electricity generated by fusion to Microsoft by 2028.

Microsoft energy, connectivity and sustainability chief and corporate vice-president Melanie Nakagawa stated: “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.”

In January 2025, Helion raised $425m in a series F funding round. The funds will be used to expedite the commercialisation of its fusion technology.

This funding round brought Helion’s total investment to more than $1bn, resulting in a post-money valuation of $5.425bn for the company.