Breakthrough Energy Ventures has unveiled its sixth annual Fellows program, backing 21 early-stage companies working across agriculture, nuclear fusion, robotics and data center power efficiency. The lineup includes Borealis Fusion, which is developing fusion reactors fueled by proton-boron rather than conventional deuterium-tritium mixtures. Managing partner Eric Toone said the selections are made with an eye toward a looming tripling of global electricity demand as economies electrify, not just today's AI-driven power crunch.
techcrunch.com
· 2026-09-22
A growing cluster of private companies is building experimental fusion reactors, aiming to harness the same energy process that powers the sun and stars. One facility under construction includes large D-shaped magnetic confinement components and circular platforms designed to contain and control plasma at extreme temperatures.
nature.com
· 2026-08-26
The Fusion Industry Association reports that 46 companies worldwide are working to turn nuclear fusion into a commercial electricity source, alongside others pursuing niche uses like medical isotopes, materials testing and spacecraft propulsion. As of August 1, the electricity-focused firms had collectively raised $14.6 billion from venture capital, private investors, utilities, government grants and data-center operators seeking new power sources.
nature.com
· 2026-08-26