Helion Advances Fusion Plant Plans in Chelan County After Landmark Energy Law

MALAGA — Fusion energy company Helion is moving ahead with plans to build a fusion power plant in Chelan County following the passage of a new Washington state law that streamlines the siting and permitting process for fusion facilities.

Earlier this month, Governor Bob Ferguson signed House Bill 1018 into law. The measure makes Washington the first state in the nation to formally classify fusion as a clean energy source. It also legally distinguishes fusion from traditional nuclear fission—an important clarification for energy developers and regulators alike.

The law gives fusion projects the same permitting flexibility as other clean energy sources, such as wind and solar. Developers can now choose among three regulatory pathways: the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC), a coordinated process through the state Department of Ecology, or a local government-led process.

Helion is currently pursuing the local permitting option for its proposed site in Malaga, just south of Wenatchee. The facility would be the company’s first commercial fusion plant and is expected to begin delivering electricity to Microsoft data centers by 2028.

As part of its development strategy, Helion has been engaging with local residents to provide information and gather feedback. A recent community meeting in Malaga drew around 350 participants.

While Malaga remains the company’s primary focus, Helion officials say additional sites are under consideration, though they have not been publicly identified.

Company leaders have described the new law as a major advancement for fusion energy in Washington. Looking ahead, they say continued state support will be needed to train a workforce capable of supporting this emerging sector as demand for clean, scalable energy grows.

Source: Puget Sound Business Journal