For many years, the prospect of commercial fusion energy has appeared consistently unattainable. However, two firms are now moving towards a more tangible goal: integrating electricity generated by fusion into the power grid.

Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS) is constructing SPARC, a fusion demonstration device aimed at laying the groundwork for its inaugural commercial energy facility, ARC. Helion is in the process of developing Orion, a fusion power plant with a capacity of 50 megawatts, which is set to provide energy to Microsoft starting in 2028.

At TechCrunch Disrupt 2026, Brandon Sorbom, co-founder and chief science officer of CFS, along with David Kirtley, founder and CEO of Helion, will take to the Smart Systems Stage for a session titled “Bringing Fusion to the Grid.” They will explore the advancements propelling fusion technology forward, the obstacles that remain, and the requirements for scaling up fusion energy for grid integration.

Curious about the factors separating current fusion advancements from commercial viability? Secure your pass and invite your co-founder, partner, or colleague for 50% off their entry. Uncover the insights shaping the future of fusion collaboratively.

Transitioning fusion from theory to commercial energy

Brandon Sorbom co-established CFS in 2018 with aspirations to commercialize fusion energy in time to mitigate climate change. As the chief science officer, he directs the scientific trajectory and R&D initiatives of the company, aiding in the progress of the ARC design. The concept originates from his experiences at MIT, where Sorbom was the principal author of the study proposing the initial ARC design during his pursuit of a PhD in nuclear science and engineering.

Currently, CFS is progressing towards ARC via SPARC, the organization’s fusion demonstration apparatus. In April, CFS became the pioneer fusion entity to petition PJM Interconnection, the largest wholesale electricity market in the U.S.—an essential phase towards ultimately linking ARC to the grid. In July, the company secured an additional $1 billion, elevating its total funding to $4 billion.

For entrepreneurs and tech executives, Sorbom provides insights that encompass the journey from academic inquiry to the creation of a commercial fusion power facility, including the scientific and engineering hurdles that must be addressed along the way.

What steps are necessary to convert years of fusion research into commercial energy? Ensure your Disrupt pass and take a second at a 50% discount to gain insights from one of the scientists committed to facilitating that transition.

Testing fusion power

David Kirtley launched Helion to advance fusion technology capable of delivering energy on a commercial scale. A fellow of the NSF and NASA Advanced Concepts program, he possesses expertise in high-beta plasmas for energy generation and space propulsion applications, currently heading Helion as it progresses towards commercial fusion power.

In February, Helion revealed that its Polaris prototype succeeded in heating plasma to 150 million degrees Celsius. The firm is now focused on developing Orion, a fusion plant designed to provide electricity to Microsoft as soon as 2028. In June, Helion achieved a critical regulatory accomplishment on its path to constructing and operating the plant. Its Series G funding announcement, initially at $465 million in June, concluded at $500 million in September.

This timeline sharply raises the questions central to the Disrupt session. While scientific milestones are crucial, the commercialization of fusion also requires transitioning to a functional power plant that can consistently supply electricity to consumers.

What will be necessary to transform fusion achievements into electricity on the grid? Register for Disrupt and bring a companion at 50% off to gain Kirtley’s insights on the work that lies ahead.

Discover what hinders fusion and grid integration at Disrupt 2026

CFS and Helion are taking varied approaches to fusion, yet both are tackling the challenge at the heart of this discussion: evolving from scientific and engineering advancements to commercial power.

At Disrupt, Sorbom and Kirtley will share firsthand experiences governing their journey through that transition. For entrepreneurs, investors, and tech leaders, their discussion presents an opportunity to learn what is bringing fusion closer to commercialization, the challenges that persist, and what it will take for fusion energy to become widely available on the grid.

Their session is part of over 200 events across six industry stages, roundtables, and breakout sessions at Disrupt, which will occur from October 13-15 at Moscone West in San Francisco. More than 10,000 founders, investors, operators, and tech leaders are anticipated, along with more than 250 speakers and 300 exhibiting startups. In addition to the agenda, matchmaking, dealmaking, and networking will offer chances to connect with founders, investors, and innovators who are defining the future.

For decades, fusion has been viewed as the energy technology of tomorrow. Join two industry leaders as they strive to bring it closer to grid integration. These are the final moments to secure your pass and obtain a second of the same type at half price.