Knoxville Startup Seeks License for World's First Fusion Plant

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A Knoxville-based nuclear startup, Type One Energy, is seeking a state license to build what could become the world's first fusion power plant, anchored by a prototype at TVA's Bull Run site in Clinton. After relocating to Knoxville in 2024, the company announced a $223 million investment and more than 300 planned jobs, deepening ties with TVA and Oak Ridge National Laboratory as it targets commercial power by the mid-2030s.

Why it matters

The development of fusion power has long been a holy grail for clean energy, with the potential to provide abundant, safe, and sustainable electricity without the radioactive waste of traditional nuclear fission. If successful, Type One Energy's fusion plant could mark a major breakthrough for the technology and position Knoxville as a hub for the future of nuclear power.

The details

Type One Energy is seeking a license from the state of Tennessee to build its prototype fusion plant at the TVA's Bull Run site in Clinton, about 25 miles west of Knoxville. The company, which relocated to Knoxville in 2024, has announced a $223 million investment and plans to create over 300 new jobs as it works to bring commercial fusion power online by the mid-2030s.

• Type One Energy announced its Knoxville relocation and investment plans in 2024.
• The company is seeking a state license to build its fusion prototype at the TVA's Bull Run site.

What’s next

If granted the state license, Type One Energy will begin construction on its fusion prototype at the TVA's Bull Run site, with the goal of bringing commercial fusion power online by the mid-2030s.