Desktop Fusion: Tiny Reactor, Big Energy Hopes

Avalanche is pursuing a novel, miniaturized approach to nuclear fusion, aiming to develop a desktop-sized reactor. This strategy allows for rapid learning and iteration, a departure from the typically large-scale and costly nature of fusion research. The company recently announced a $29 million investment round led by R.A. Capital Management, adding to its total funding of $80 million.

The startup's method involves using high-voltage electric currents and magnets to confine and accelerate plasma particles until they fuse. This technique is significantly different from larger tokamak designs or laser-based compression methods employed by other fusion ventures. Avalanche's current reactor is only nine centimeters in diameter, but a forthcoming 25-centimeter version is anticipated to produce approximately 1 megawatt.

This larger device is expected to significantly improve plasma confinement time, a crucial factor for achieving a Q>1 ratio—meaning the reactor generates more energy than it consumes. The company plans to conduct key experiments at its FusionWERX facility, which will be licensed to handle tritium by 2027. Avalanche anticipates significant progress in the fusion sector between 2027 and 2029, aligning with timelines of major competitors.