Fusion startup Helion is developing new semiconductors that could double output of its power plants
- ID
- 38299
- Status
- summarized
- Published
- 22 Oct 2026, 10:59 PM
- Fetched
- 22 Oct 2026, 11:14 PM
- Provider
- TechCrunch
- Category
- technology
- Original URL
- https://techcrunch.com/2026/10/22/fusion-startup-helion-is-developing-new-semiconductors-that-could-double-output-of-its-power-plants/
- Source URL
- https://techcrunch.com/feed/
Summary
- Score
- 2.5
- Created
- 22 Oct 2026, 11:14 PM
- Tags
- Audience
- developerssaas_founders
What happened
Helion received a three-year, $175M Department of Commerce award under the CHIPS Act to develop and manufacture advanced semiconductors and power electronics for its fusion plants. The devices currently lose 5%–10% of electricity, and CEO David Kirtley says halving that loss could double fusion output. Helion plans an automated module, packaging, and testing line in Washington State—described as the first U.S. line for this semiconductor class—while targeting its Orion plant and a 2028 Microsoft electricity deadline.
Why it matters
No Malaysia/SEA angle is present, and there is no direct software or AI-agent action. The concrete item to track is whether the CHIPS-funded Washington line actually supplies Helion’s Orion plant by the 2028 Microsoft deadline; otherwise deprioritize it.
Discussion angle
The award is meant to cut a 5%–10% electrical loss to double fusion output—does that justify CHIPS Act money going to a fusion startup rather than established semiconductor suppliers, and what does the 2028 Microsoft deadline imply for the schedule?