What's Happening?
The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), in partnership with Type One Energy and the University of Tennessee, is establishing a high-heat flux facility at the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Bull Run Energy Complex in East Tennessee.
This facility aims to accelerate the development of plasma-facing components for fusion energy devices by evaluating material reactions under extreme conditions. The project, supported by investments from DOE’s Fusion Energy Sciences program, Type One Energy, and the state of Tennessee, is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. The facility will be the most powerful of its kind in the U.S., featuring pressurized helium gas cooling, a preferred coolant for many fusion concepts.
Why It's Important?
This collaboration is significant as it positions the U.S. at the forefront of fusion energy development, a potential game-changer in the quest for sustainable and abundant energy sources. The facility will enhance the U.S.'s ability to innovate in nuclear technology, supporting national energy needs and security. By advancing the understanding of materials performance in fusion conditions, the project could lead to breakthroughs in commercial fusion energy, offering a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels and reducing carbon emissions.
What's Next?
The next steps involve finalizing the design, beginning procurement, and starting assembly of the facility. The project will leverage existing investments in fusion materials and technology in East Tennessee, further establishing the region as a hub for fusion research. The collaboration between ORNL, Type One Energy, and the University of Tennessee will continue to drive innovation and provide research and career opportunities in the field of fusion energy.
