Nashville, TN (WOKI) – Tennessee is set to become the first state in the country to implement its own regulatory framework for nuclear fusion technology, with new rules taking effect June 9.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) announced the milestone, calling it a major step in further establishing the state as a global leader in nuclear energy innovation. The new regulations create a technology-neutral approach to licensing fusion machines and related activities.
State officials say Tennessee is uniquely positioned to lead the effort as a Nuclear Regulatory Commission Agreement state, with more than six decades of experience overseeing nuclear-related programs.
“Tennessee has been named the top state in the nation for nuclear energy industry growth,” said TDEC Commissioner David Salyers. “This latest step supercharges our reputation as the global hub for nuclear innovation.”
The new rules, outlined in Chapter 0400-20-14, define nuclear fusion as the process of combining light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus—releasing large amounts of energy, similar to the reaction that powers the sun.
A fusion machine under the rules includes any system capable of transforming atomic nuclei and capturing the resulting energy, heat, or radiation.
One of the first projects expected to fall under the new framework is Type One Energy’s proposed fusion development campus near Oak Ridge. The project involves collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the Tennessee Valley Authority, and the University of Tennessee.
Type One Energy’s planned “Infinity Two” facility is projected as a 400-megawatt fusion power plant using stellarator technology. Construction could begin as early as 2028, pending regulatory approval.
Officials say the new rules are designed to attract advanced energy companies and position Tennessee at the forefront of next-generation power production.
