In a significant development for Virginia’s clean energy landscape, Governor Glenn Youngkin has signed legislation that officially adds “fusion energy” to the state’s definition of “carbon-free energy” or “clean energy” under § 1-208.1 of the Code of Virginia. The legislation, introduced as identical bills SB 1338 and HB 1779, updates state law to classify fusion energy as a form of “carbon-free” or “clean” energy alongside other non-carbon-emitting sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, tidal, geothermal, and nuclear power. The amendment is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
The newly signed legislation defines fusion energy as “the energy generated through the process of fusing together atomic nuclei.” This addition to Virginia’s energy framework recognizes the potential of fusion technology as a clean, reliable power source that produces minimal waste and no direct carbon emissions during electricity generation.
The World’s First Commercial Fusion Power Plant
This legislative update comes on the heels of the December 2024 announcement that Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS) has selected Chesterfield County, Virginia as the site for the world’s first grid-scale commercial fusion power plant. The groundbreaking project promises to supply about 400 megawatts of electricity — enough energy to power approximately 150,000 homes.
GreeneHurlocker is proud to be providing regulatory, land use, and transactional legal counsel to Commonwealth Fusion Systems for this transformative project.
Economic and Environmental Benefits
The fusion facility represents not only a technological breakthrough but also a significant economic opportunity for Virginia. The project is expected to generate billions of dollars in economic activity and create hundreds of new jobs during both construction and operational phases.
In his announcement about signing the legislation, Governor Youngkin highlighted that the bills will “cement Virginia as home of the world’s first commercial nuclear fusion facility,” signaling the Commonwealth’s commitment to being at the forefront of clean energy innovation.
Looking Ahead: Virginia’s Clean Energy Future
By embracing fusion energy through this legislative update, Virginia demonstrates its commitment to fostering innovation in the energy sector while working toward a more sustainable future. GreeneHurlocker remains committed to supporting clients like Commonwealth Fusion Systems who are leading the way in clean energy development.
We will continue to provide updates on regulatory developments related to fusion energy and other clean energy initiatives in Virginia as they evolve.
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