Helion Granted Fusion Energy Safety License from Washington State Department of Health
July 30, 2024
Helion, a fusion energy company, has announced it has obtained a Large Broad Scope license from the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). This license, similar to those held by hospitals and universities, enables Helion to possess and use the necessary quantities of byproduct material to support operation of Polaris, the company’s 7th-generation fusion machine that will be used to demonstrate the production of electricity.
The issuance of a Large Broad Scope license underscores Helion’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety as the company advances toward the commercialization of fusion energy.
“First and foremost, our emphasis on safety has always been about ensuring the well-being of our team and our community. By securing this Large Broad Scope license, we’ve taken another important step toward bringing safe, clean, virtually unlimited energy to the world,” said David Kirtley, CEO of Helion Energy. “The Washington DOH is a leader in setting world-class practices for the safe regulation of fusion activities and helped to establish Washington State as a center of fusion development.”
Last year, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission voted unanimously to regulate the fusion industry differently than the nuclear fission industry, due to inherent differences in risk level. In July, this decision was codified in the ADVANCE Act, signed by President Biden. The NRC’s decision enables Agreement States, including Washington state, to participate in the regulatory process, with the DOH as the regulatory body overseeing Helion’s fusion generators in Washington State. Since 2018, Helion has coordinated with DOH to ensure its fusion technology meets all applicable safety and regulatory requirements. Obtaining the Large Broad Scope license expands on the continued, close-working relationship between Helion and the DOH.
“Safely creating cleaner energy is fundamental for a healthy future, and fusion is the ultimate clean energy source,” said Jill Wood, director of DOH’s Office of Radiation Protection. “We’ve worked with Helion for several years now to ensure their operations meet our stringent safety standards. This license reflects the company’s rigorous attention to safety and encourages emerging commercial fusion industries here in Washington.”
Looking ahead, Helion is preparing to launch the world’s first fusion power plant in Washington State by 2028, where the company will continue to uphold its commitment to safety to its community, customers, and team.
About Helion
Helion is a fusion energy company focused on generating zero-carbon electricity from fusion. Its mission is to build the world’s first fusion power plant, enabling a future with unlimited clean electricity.
Related Story
CNL Announces New Programs to Position Canada to Seize Opportunities in Fusion Energy
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology organization, is pleased to announce that it welcomed Canadian and international leaders in fusion science and technology to the nation’s capital earlier this week for Fusion Day 2024, a forum to discuss and explore the path to fusion deployment in Canada. Hosted by CNL at the Rideau Club in Ottawa, the event served as a venue for CNL to unveil and discuss its ‘Fusion Energy for Canada’ report, a new plan that outlines a collective vision and national strategy to make fusion energy a reality in Canada.
