nT-Tao, Orion Nuclear Sign MoU for 20 MW Fusion Deployment
nT-Tao and Orion Nuclear Energy have signed an MoU to pilot 20 MW compact fusion systems for US data centers and industrial sites.
Key points
- nT-Tao and Orion Nuclear signed an MoU to evaluate 20 MW compact fusion systems for US industrial and data center sites.
- The system is based on nT-Tao’s MEGA platform, which recently achieved first plasma and a 50 MW pulsed-power subsystem upgrade.
- Orion will manage site identification, financing, and regulatory work, while nT-Tao provides the fusion technology and design.
Israeli fusion developer nT-Tao and US nuclear firm Orion Nuclear Energy Corporation have signed a memorandum of understanding to evaluate the deployment of compact fusion power systems in the United States. The agreement targets customers in data centers and heavy industry who require reliable, on-site electricity without dependence on new grid infrastructure.
The proposed Compact Fusion System is designed to deliver up to 20 megawatts of continuous power from a compact footprint. This output level positions the technology between microreactor concepts and larger small modular nuclear projects, addressing specific load requirements for high-consumption facilities.
Partnership Defines Commercial Roles
Under the agreement, Orion will handle project development tasks, including identifying power offtakers, evaluating sites, and structuring financing. nT-Tao will provide the underlying fusion technology, system design, and the technical development roadmap. This division of labor allows Orion to leverage its existing regulatory and utility relationships while nT-Tao focuses on engineering scalability.
Technical Milestones Support Deployment
nT-Tao’s C3 prototype achieved first plasma in January 2026, marking operational status for the platform. In September, the company deployed a new 50 MW pulsed-power subsystem, representing a five-fold increase in power capability built on its Modular Energy Generator Architecture platform. This hardware upgrade is intended to advance the prototype toward its next temperature milestone, providing technical data for the larger commercial system.
Current Stage Remains Pre-Commercial
The memorandum does not constitute a commercial deployment or a binding purchase order. The companies plan to identify a limited number of potential US projects for further evaluation following the signing. Any future commercial projects will still require additional technical development, site preparation, financing, and regulatory engagement before power generation can begin.
