State grants Everett-based Helion a fusion energy license

Helion Energy, a pioneering company based in Everett, has secured a Large Broad Scope license from the Washington state Department of Health, enabling the use of radioactive materials in its advanced fusion energy systems. This license is essential for the operation of Polaris, the company's seventh-generation fusion generator, which aims to demonstrate the production of electricity through fusion—a process that combines atoms instead of splitting them, thus offering a cleaner alternative to nuclear fission. CEO David Kirtley emphasized the company's ongoing commitment to safety and regulatory compliance, stating that the license marks a significant step toward providing safe, clean energy. The innovative technology not only reduces radioactive waste significantly but also eliminates the risk of catastrophic meltdowns associated with traditional nuclear plants. In a landmark decision, the U.

S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission has established a separate regulatory framework for fusion energy, acknowledging its lower risk profile compared to fission. This differentiation allows state authorities to participate effectively in overseeing Helion's operations. Founded in 2013, Helion is rapidly expanding its workforce and aims to launch the world's first fusion power plant in Washington by 2028, potentially transforming the energy landscape and underlining the importance of fusion technology in achieving a sustainable future.