A US fusion energy developer backed by Bill Gates has submitted the initial licensing application in preparation for the construction of a fusion power plant at Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA) former Bull Run fossil plant site in Clinton, Tennessee.

Type One Energy said it worked closely with TVA and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) to prepare the “first-of-a-kind” application for a byproduct material licence, demonstrating compliance with key licensing requirements for fusion energy technology as part of a comprehensive application process.

A byproduct materials licence authorises the possession, use and transfer of radioactive materials produced by nuclear energy.