Nuclear fusion is widely regarded as the “holy grail” of clean energy—offering virtually limitless, safe, and carbon-free power if successfully commercialized. While fusion remains in the experimental stage, significant scientific and private sector advances have accelerated progress, attracting growing investor interest. Gaining exposure to nuclear fusion development involves targeting companies, funds, and technologies driving this breakthrough energy frontier.
Why invest in nuclear fusion?
- Long-term energy solution: Fusion promises abundant, stable power without radioactive waste like fission.
- Government & private funding: Billions of dollars poured into research and commercial ventures worldwide.
- Technological breakthroughs: Advances in magnets, lasers, superconductors, and plasma physics.
- Strategic importance: Fusion could revolutionize energy markets and climate goals by mid-century.
Ways to invest in nuclear fusion development
1. Public companies involved in fusion-related technology
- General Electric Company (NYSE: GE)
- Provides turbines and electrical equipment potentially applicable to fusion power plants.
- L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: LHX)
- Works on advanced sensors and control systems relevant to fusion reactor technology.
- II-VI Incorporated (NASDAQ: IIVI)
- Supplies specialty optics and laser technologies used in fusion research.
- Hyperion Metals (private, watch IPO potential)
- Develops materials critical for fusion reactors, such as advanced alloys and superconductors.
2. Private fusion startups with IPO or SPAC potential
- Commonwealth Fusion Systems
- Spinout from MIT developing compact fusion reactors using high-temperature superconductors.
- Backed by Bill Gates and other investors; IPO rumors circulating.
- TAE Technologies
- Pursues alternative fusion approaches with private funding; potential future public offering.
- General Fusion
- Canadian company developing magnetized target fusion technology; exploring funding options.
- Helion Energy
- Focused on pulsed fusion technology with plans for commercial deployment.
3. ETFs and funds with indirect fusion exposure
- Procure Space ETF (UFO) — Includes companies investing in advanced energy and space tech related to fusion.
- ARK Innovation ETF (ARKK) — Holds technology innovators, some of which contribute to fusion tech components.
4. Venture capital and private equity
- Early-stage investors can gain access through VC funds focused on clean energy and advanced physics startups.
- Secondary markets occasionally offer shares in late-stage private fusion companies.
Investment considerations and risks
- Long development timelines: Commercial fusion remains years to decades away.
- Technical challenges: Fusion is extremely complex; breakthroughs are uncertain.
- Capital intensity: Requires significant funding with delayed returns.
- Valuation volatility: Early-stage companies may be highly speculative.
- Regulatory environment: Fusion energy regulation is evolving and may impact commercialization.
Investing in nuclear fusion development is a high-risk, high-reward strategy aligned with the future of clean energy. By targeting technology enablers, promising private startups nearing public markets, and diversified innovation funds, investors can position themselves to benefit from this potentially transformative breakthrough.