Helion Energy, a company focused on developing nuclear fusion technology, has signed a power purchase agreement with Microsoft to provide at least 50 megawatts of fusion-generated electricity by 2028. The deal, if successful, would mark a significant milestone in the pursuit of commercial nuclear fusion as a viable energy source. However, there are numerous technical challenges and uncertainties that Helion Energy must overcome to achieve this ambitious goal.

Will Helion Energy successfully provide at least 50 megawatts of fusion-generated electricity to Microsoft before January 1st, 2029, as part of their power purchase agreement?

Resolution Criteria:

This question will resolve to "YES" if, before January 1st, 2029, Helion Energy has publicly and credibly documented to have:

1. Developed and operated a commercial fusion generator with a capacity of at least 50 megawatts, using their plasma accelerator technology, which involves:

   a. Heating deuterium and helium-3 into a plasma. b. Utilizing pulsed magnetic fields to compress the plasma, causing fusion to occur. c. Recapturing the electricity used to trigger the fusion reaction, recharging the device's magnets.

2. Connected the fusion generator to a power grid in Washington, delivering at least 50 megawatts of fusion-generated electricity to Microsoft, as outlined in their power purchase agreement.

3. Demonstrated a net energy gain from the fusion generator, meaning that the energy produced through fusion is greater than the energy input required to initiate and sustain the fusion reaction.

The resolution of this question will be based on publicly available evidence, such as press releases, independent expert assessments, technical publications, and regulatory approvals, that confirms Helion Energy's achievement of the above criteria by the specified deadline.

I will use my discretion when resolving this question, possibly in consultation with experts, to ensure that the criteria are met, and that Helion Energy has successfully held up their end of the deal by providing the promised amount of electricity via fusion energy before January 1st, 2029.