Trump Media & Technology Group Corp. (NASDAQ: DJT) together with TAE Technologies have embarked on initial stages of planning for a pioneering fusion power plant in the United States. This collaboration marks a significant step toward launching commercial fusion energy within the nation.
The joint announcement reveals that the companies have commenced evaluating locations suitable for their inaugural fusion power facility. Their objective is to commence construction by 2026, a timeline contingent upon securing necessary regulatory clearances and finalizing their announced merger transaction.
The primary power plant is designed with an expected generation capacity of approximately 50 megawatts. Following this initial development, plans include construction of substantially larger subsequent plants with projected output ranging from 350 to 500 megawatts.
In their site selection process, the organizations are surveying properties measuring at least 20 acres. Adequate land size is essential to accommodate the initial fusion plant infrastructure, future scale-up reactors, and adjacent next-generation research facilities.
Site selection criteria also prioritize factors such as connectivity to a robust power grid system, proximity to urban centers and airports, availability of skilled labor, supportive state and local governmental entities, and the capacity to implement stringent security measures.
Devin Nunes, Chairman and CEO of Trump Media, emphasized that discussions with several states and strategic partners are underway as part of their merger preparation efforts. He framed the endeavor as an initiative to restore the United States' leadership in energy through the deployment of clean, affordable fusion power. Additionally, this energy source is anticipated to contribute to lowering overall energy costs and fostering growth in artificial intelligence industries.
The planned fusion plants will utilize TAE Technologies’ proprietary beam-driven fusion technology, aiming to offer a transformative approach to energy generation.
Regarding corporate developments, Trump Media and TAE Technologies have reached an agreement to merge in an all-stock deal valued in excess of $6 billion. The completion of this transaction is expected by mid-2026, pending the requisite shareholder and regulatory approvals.
Meanwhile, market participants remain divided on the company's future. Data from S3 Partners indicates that short sellers have increased their positions against Trump Media following the merger announcement, with short interest rising by 31% since December 18, approaching nearly 16 million shares—levels not seen since October.
Despite this short interest surge, Trump Media’s share price has risen more than 27% since the merger disclosure. However, over the course of the past year, the stock’s value has declined by almost 60%, reflecting ongoing investor concerns regarding the company’s sustained losses and uncertain long-term outlook.
It is notable that former President Donald Trump holds approximately 40% ownership in Trump Media. Post-merger, his stake is expected to dilute to about 20%, as indicated by Reuters.
At the time of reporting, Trump Media shares were trading at $14.43, representing a modest increase of 0.28% based on Benzinga Pro data.