Every technology reaches a tipping point when it transitions from theory to practical possibility. Robin Langtry, co-founder and CEO of Avalanche Energy, believes his company has reached that critical moment. Recently, Avalanche operated its desktop fusion machine continuously for hours while maintaining 300,000 volts, a milestone the startup predicts will enable it to develop a reactor capable of generating more energy than it consumes—the ultimate goal for any fusion company.
Unlike other fusion companies that rely on powerful magnets to generate energy, Avalanche’s design uses intense electrical currents to pull fast-moving ions into tight orbits around an electrode. As the density and speed of these ions increase, they begin to collide and fuse, releasing energy in the process. Langtry emphasized the importance of reaching extremely high voltages, explaining that the company’s ability to sustain 6 million volts per meter is a key breakthrough. This voltage density is especially significant because Avalanche is building small reactors targeting output ranges from 5 kilowatts to several hundred kilowatts.
With such a powerful electrical force, Avalanche expects to produce a large number of neutrons at a low cost. These neutrons can be utilized to manufacture radioisotopes and test materials intended for use in fusion reactors. This capability not only advances fusion research but also opens commercial opportunities.
Recently, Avalanche was awarded a $10 million grant by Washington State to build FusionWERX, a testing facility where other fusion companies and researchers can book time to experiment with their own fusion technologies. The funding for this grant comes from the state’s carbon marketplace proceeds. Langtry highlighted the facility’s unique approach, noting that hardware tested there remains the sole property of the researchers or companies, ensuring full ownership of their intellectual property.
The revenue potential from radioisotope sales and FusionWERX facility rentals is promising. Langtry forecasts that Avalanche will turn profitable by 2028, with expected revenues ranging between $30 million and $50 million by 2029.
Following the achievement of the 300,000-volt milestone and a clear path to revenue, Avalanche is rumored to be preparing for a Series A funding round. While Langtry did not provide specific details about fundraising efforts, he confirmed that the company is securing the necessary funds to meet the 50% cost-match requirement tied to the Washington State grant. “We’ve already got a pretty good chunk of it lined up,” he said. Raising money to launch FusionWERX remains the company’s top priority; once that is accomplished, Langtry believes the other pieces will fall into place naturally.