Realta Fusion Directly Converts Fusion Energy to Electricity
Original: Realta Fusion generates electricity directly from a fusion reaction, an apparent first
Why This Matters
Direct energy conversion could significantly improve fusion reactor efficiency and accelerate path to commercial profitability.
Realta Fusion announced June 19 that its WHAM demonstration device successfully powered a lightbulb using electricity harvested directly from a fusion reaction, marking an apparent first for private companies in direct energy conversion technology.
Realta Fusion, a Wisconsin-based fusion startup, demonstrated direct electricity generation from a fusion reaction on June 19, 2026. The company's WHAM (demonstration fusion device) harvested electricity directly from the plasma and successfully powered multiple lightbulbs. Co-founder and CEO Kieran Furlong stated the achievement shows what is possible in fusion energy conversion. The approach differs from traditional methods that generate heat to spin turbines. Realta's direct conversion technology is estimated to be about 90% efficient, compared to approximately 33% efficiency in steam turbines used in fission reactors. About 20% of energy from deuterium-tritium fusion reactions consists of charged helium nuclei (alpha particles), which Realta's prototype converter harvested to generate multiple amps of electricity at 100 volts. On a commercial scale, direct energy conversion could provide enough power to heat the plasma internally, enabling electricity recirculation. Furlong estimates this circular approach could boost total output of a commercial power plant by 20% to 30%. The technology addresses a major challenge for fusion startups: proving reactors can produce more energy than they consume. While other startups like Helion also plan to deploy direct energy conversion, Realta believes it is the first private company to publicly demonstrate this capability.