The race for chips is not only about processors running AI models. A less visible family converts and directs electricity.

Four industrial links

Helion could receive $175 million, Commonwealth Fusion Systems $85 million, Vertical Semiconductor $73 million and Sibelco $56 million.

Helion could receive $175 million, Commonwealth Fusion Systems $85 million, Vertical Semiconductor $73 million and Sibelco $56 million.

Helion could receive $175 million, Commonwealth Fusion Systems $85 million, Vertical Semiconductor $73 million and Sibelco $56 million.

Power, not only computing

Power semiconductors switch and convert electricity. Their efficiency affects heat, cooling and energy use in data centres, while fusion systems require components capable of handling demanding voltage, radiation and temperature conditions. Vertical gallium nitride devices could reduce losses, but reliable industrial production remains a separate challenge from a successful prototype.

Power semiconductors switch and convert electricity. Their efficiency affects heat, cooling and energy use in data centres, while fusion systems require components capable of handling demanding voltage, radiation and temperature conditions. Vertical gallium nitride devices could reduce losses, but reliable industrial production remains a separate challenge from a successful prototype.

Letters of intent, not completed awards

Technical milestones and final terms remain, and the government intends to receive minority, non-controlling, non-voting equity stakes. The projects do not guarantee commercial fusion, cheaper electricity or immediate efficiency gains. Their value will be judged through manufacturing yield, durability and measured energy performance.

Technical milestones and final terms remain, and the government intends to receive minority, non-controlling, non-voting equity stakes. The projects do not guarantee commercial fusion, cheaper electricity or immediate efficiency gains. Their value will be judged through manufacturing yield, durability and measured energy performance.

Conclusion

Technical milestones and final terms remain, and the government intends to receive minority, non-controlling, non-voting equity stakes. The projects do not guarantee commercial fusion, cheaper electricity or immediate efficiency gains. Their value will be judged through manufacturing yield, durability and measured energy performance.