What is fusion, and why does it matter now?
Fusion is the process that powers the stars: light atoms fuse and release energy. Its fuel comes from water and lithium, it produces no greenhouse gases, and unlike most renewables it is firm and dispatchable. It matters now because electricity demand is in structural expansion with increased demand from AI, transportation, and industry, while firm, carbon-free capacity is scarce.
What exactly has been demonstrated?
Fusion energy gain. On December 5, 2022, the National Ignition Facility produced 3.15 MJ of fusion energy from 2.05 MJ delivered to the target, the first energy gain in history. It has since been repeated 11 times at increasing yields, reaching a record target gain of 4.13 (8.6 MJ from 2.08 MJ). We use the precise term: scientific (target) gain, fusion energy out divided by laser energy on target.
How is Longview different from other fusion companies?
Two things cannot be copied. First, the team: Longview is led by the people who designed, built, and ran NIF, the only facility ever to demonstrate fusion gain. Second, the plant: our design concept has been reviewed and validated by eight major U.S. utilities, with Fluor under contract for engineering. The physics of our approach is proven; our work ahead is engineering.
What fuel does the plant use?
Deuterium-tritium, the easiest fusion reaction to achieve and the one demonstrated at NIF. The plant produces its own tritium on site, and is fuel self-sufficient.
Is it safe? How is it regulated?
Fusion has no self-sustaining chain reaction: when the lasers stop, the reaction stops after less than one-billionth of a second. On-site tritium inventory is minimal. In 2023, the NRC determined fusion should be regulated under the byproduct-materials framework rather than the fission reactor framework, a direction affirmed by the ADVANCE Act of 2024, with final licensing rules expected in 2026. This greatly reduces schedule and budget risk.
What will the electricity cost?
The plant is designed to compete with all baseload power generation including gas, coal, and nuclear, with a mature-fleet projection of $50 to $70 per MWh. Capital intensity and regulatory compliance are designed to be market-competitive.
When will the first plant run?
Our target is first commercial operation in 2033 with a 500 MWe entry plant, upgradable to the 1,200 MWe class, delivering firm, load-following power.
Does Longview operate the plants?
Longview designs and licenses the plant, supplies the laser and engine technology, and provides fuel and operations services, the model proven by established fission services companies. Plants are built and owned with developer and utility partners.