RICHMOND, VA – Virginia Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Barry DuVal today released the below statement in response to Commonwealth Fusion Systems selecting Virginia as the site for its multi-billion-dollar investment. The company plans to build the world’s first grid-scale commercial fusion power plant in Chesterfield County.

“This is a monumental day for Virginia’s economy. Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS)’s decision to build this fusion power plant in Chesterfield County demonstrates that Virginia is a leader in fostering innovation and cutting-edge technology. As the demand for energy continues to grow due to economic, employment, and investment growth, nuclear fusion technology has the potential to provide clean, sustainable, and reliable energy to Virginia businesses in all industries.

“A thriving and sustainable economy benefits all Virginians, and today’s announcement is a clear example of the positive impact of strategic investments in clean energy can have. The Virginia Chamber’s Blueprint Virginia outlines and supports this approach by promoting sustainable energy production. CFS’s expansion is an example of the kinds of projects that align with the Chamber’s vision for a clean energy future, and it will help to position Virginia as a leader in the energy sector.

“With Virginia as the northernmost Right-to-Work state on the east coast, the Virginia Chamber recognizes the importance of the statute to attracting businesses seeking to locate and expand here, as well as its contribution to our national rankings. This announcement comes on the heels of CNBC’s July ranking of Virginia as America’s Top State for Business and Business Facilities selecting Virginia as its 2024 State of the Year just yesterday.

“On behalf of Virginia Chamber member companies, we express our appreciation to Governor Glenn Youngkin and the General Assembly as we work together to strengthen Virginia’s business climate and attract more investments such as this one. As the voice of Virginia business, the Virginia Chamber is excited to welcome CFS to the Commonwealth and looks forward to their continued success.

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About the Virginia Chamber of Commerce:

The Virginia Chamber of Commerce is the largest business advocacy organization in the Commonwealth, with more than 33,000 members. The Chamber is a non-partisan, business advocacy organization that works in the legislative, regulatory, and political arenas to act as the catalyst for positive change in all areas of economic development and competitiveness for Virginia. Learn more at https://vachamber.com/.