tech
March 23, 2026
Microsoft Makes Huge, Far-From-Certain Bet on Nuclear Fusion
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TL;DR
- Microsoft has signed an agreement to purchase electricity from Helion Energy's nuclear fusion generator, with a target of 2028.
- Nuclear fusion, the process powering stars, is seen as a potentially limitless clean energy source, but replicating it controllably has been a long-standing scientific challenge.
- Helion Energy is developing a unique plasma accelerator device, distinct from laser-based or tokamak methods, to achieve fusion.
- Experts express skepticism about the rapid timeline, citing the need for significant technological breakthroughs and cost-competitiveness.
- Helion claims its system can recapture energy for reuse and has a patented process for producing helium-3 fuel.
- OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is a key investor and board chair at Helion, potentially influencing the deal with Microsoft.
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