The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced $134 million in funding for two programs aimed at advancing fusion energy research and strengthening the United States’ position in fusion technology development. The new investments are part of DOE’s efforts to support American innovation and energy leadership.
According to DOE, $128 million will go toward the Fusion Innovative Research Engine (FIRE) Collaboratives. This funding is allocated to seven teams working to create a virtual network that connects basic science research with the growing fusion industry. The goal is to foster an innovation ecosystem that supports the transition from laboratory research to commercial applications.
Additionally, DOE is providing $6.1 million for the Innovation Network for Fusion Energy (INFUSE) program. Through this initiative, 20 projects have been selected to help private-sector companies collaborate with national laboratories and universities. These projects cover a range of topics including materials science, laser technology, high temperature superconducting magnets, artificial intelligence for fusion modeling and simulation, and technologies needed for economic fusion energy production.
“Under President Trump’s leadership, DOE is unleashing the next frontier of American energy,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “Fusion power holds the promise of limitless, reliable, American-made energy—and programs like INFUSE and FIRE ensure our innovators have the tools, talent, and partnerships to make it a reality.”
Fusion energy replicates the process that powers stars such as the sun and could offer abundant and reliable power if successfully developed for commercial use. Following the passage of the Energy Act of 2020, DOE’s Fusion Energy Sciences (FES) program has worked closely with private industry through initiatives like INFUSE and FIRE Collaboratives to accelerate progress toward viable commercial fusion energy.
The new funding also aligns with recent federal policy priorities supporting domestic energy production and supply chain resilience. The awards are expected to contribute not only to scientific advancement but also to national security and defense capabilities by maintaining U.S. leadership in key technologies.
A full list of funded projects is available on the Fusion Energy Sciences program homepage.
The INFUSE program selected its projects through a competitive peer review process managed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. Awards range from $100,000 to $500,000 per project for one-year periods.
For FIRE Collaboratives, DOE anticipates investing up to $220 million over four years depending on congressional appropriations. The initial commitment includes $31 million for Fiscal Year 2025; however, all awards remain subject to negotiation between DOE and applicants before final funding decisions are made.
