A Community-First Approach to Fusion Energy
At Type One Energy, we believe building the future of energy starts with building strong relationships. Fusion energy projects are long-term commitments to the communities where they are developed, and meaningful engagement is essential to creating lasting partnerships built on trust, transparency, and shared opportunity.
That was on full display May 9, when we hosted our first community open house at the Claxton Community Center near the Bull Run Energy Complex in Clinton, Tennessee. More than 150 community members joined us to learn about our plans for the site, meet members of the Type One Energy team, and enjoy an afternoon featuring local Knoxville-area vendors, shaved ice, face painting, and balloon animals.
The event marked an important milestone in our commitment to put community first as we advance Project Infinity, our plan to deploy the world’s first stellarator fusion power plant at Bull Run.
For generations, Bull Run has been an important part of life in Anderson County. From its history as the world’s largest coal-fired power plant to its future as a center for fusion innovation, the site has played a vital role in supporting the region. As co-authors of Bull Run’s next chapter along with the Tennessee Valley Authority, our responsibility extends beyond technology development. It includes listening to our neighbors, investing in the community, and ensuring residents have a voice in shaping the future.
To encourage open dialogue, the open house featured interactive exhibits focused on fusion science, safety, workforce development, and community benefits. Visitors had the opportunity to ask questions directly to our team, while younger attendees explored science activities and creative projects designed to make fusion accessible and engaging for all ages.
The conversation throughout the day reinforced what we have long believed: successful energy projects are built through collaboration. Community members shared their perspectives, asked thoughtful questions, and expressed a strong interest in understanding how fusion technology will impact the region.
Safety emerged as one of the most important topics of discussion. Residents wanted to better understand how fusion works, what differentiates it from other energy technologies, and what it means for their families and environment. Oak Ridge National Laboratory Director Stephen Streiffer, speaking both as a scientist and a neighbor to the Bull Run site, discussed fusion’s inherent safety characteristics and reflected on East Tennessee’s proud history of supporting groundbreaking scientific and technological achievements.
Transparency in discussions around safety remains a cornerstone of our approach. To help ensure the community remains informed throughout the development process, Type One Energy is partnering with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, to support ongoing public site monitoring and reporting. We are committed to providing clear, accessible information as we move forward.
Our Commitment to Corporate Citizenship
Our commitment to the community also extends beyond project development. Anderson County Commissioner Tracy Wandell described Type One Energy as a “true corporate citizen,” reflecting the role we hope to play as a long-term community partner. In support of that commitment, we funded repairs to the roof of the Claxton Community Center, helping preserve an important local gathering place. We have also partnered with TVA to support the development of a new Claxton Community Park, creating additional opportunities for recreation and connection.
As we continue advancing fusion energy, we recognize technological innovation alone is not enough. Successful projects require trust, transparency, and a genuine investment in communities.
The future of fusion at Bull Run will be shaped not only by engineers, scientists, and builders, but also by the neighbors, families, educators, and local leaders who call this region home. We are grateful for the warm welcome we have received and look forward to continuing the conversation as we work together to build a future powered by safe, affordable, abundant fusion energy.