The U.S. Department of Energy has approved Xcimer Energy’s preconceptual design and technology roadmap for Athena, its commercial fusion power plant architecture. The milestone validates a 724-page technical submission covering performance, economics, safety, and scalability. Athena combines laser fusion, tritium breeding, and power generation systems designed for continuous operation, advancing Xcimer’s goal of bringing commercially viable fusion energy to market.

Zinkteknik has selected Rockwell Automation’s Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform to modernize operations across its manufacturing facilities. The cloud-based solution will improve production visibility, quality management, traceability, and operational efficiency while supporting data-driven decision-making. By integrating manufacturing processes and real-time analytics, Zinkteknik aims to strengthen productivity, streamline workflows, and accelerate its digital transformation strategy in an increasingly competitive industrial market.

Dana Incorporated will merge with Eaton’s vehicle mobility business in a $5.1 billion transaction, creating a global leader in drivetrain, powertrain, and electrification technologies. The combined company aims to strengthen innovation, expand market reach, and improve operational efficiency across commercial and passenger vehicle sectors. The merger reflects ongoing industry consolidation as manufacturers invest in next-generation mobility and electrified transportation solutions.

The White House is backing the U.S. coal industry with $700 million in federal investment. Under the Defense Production Act, $500 million will support coal projects, including $425 million to upgrade 13 coal-fired power plants across 10 states and $75 million for an Oakland coal export terminal. Another $200 million in DOE grants will fund new coal plants in Alaska and West Virginia and restart a Maryland coal facility.

The U.S. Department of Energy has approved Xcimer Energy’s preconceptual design and technology roadmap for Athena, its commercial fusion power plant architecture. The milestone validates a 724-page technical submission covering performance, economics, safety, and scalability. Athena combines laser fusion, tritium breeding, and power generation systems designed for continuous operation, advancing Xcimer’s goal of bringing commercially viable fusion energy to market.

Standard Bots has raised $200 million in Series C funding, reaching a $1 billion valuation as it scales U.S. manufacturing of AI-native industrial robots. The company is expanding its New York facility to 70,000 square feet, boosting domestic production capacity. Its demonstration-trained robots are already used across aerospace, automotive, defense, and manufacturing sectors, with plans to capture 10% of new U.S. robot deployments next year.

Zinkteknik has selected Rockwell Automation’s Plex Smart Manufacturing Platform to modernize operations across its manufacturing facilities. The cloud-based solution will improve production visibility, quality management, traceability, and operational efficiency while supporting data-driven decision-making. By integrating manufacturing processes and real-time analytics, Zinkteknik aims to strengthen productivity, streamline workflows, and accelerate its digital transformation strategy in an increasingly competitive industrial market.

Private equity firm Platte River Equity has acquired Tallman Equipment, a leading supplier of tools, equipment, and services for electric utility and linework professionals. The deal marks Platte River’s 100th acquisition and is expected to support Tallman’s next growth phase through investments in inventory, service capabilities, operations, and customer support. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Dana Incorporated will merge with Eaton’s vehicle mobility business in a $5.1 billion transaction, creating a global leader in drivetrain, powertrain, and electrification technologies. The combined company aims to strengthen innovation, expand market reach, and improve operational efficiency across commercial and passenger vehicle sectors. The merger reflects ongoing industry consolidation as manufacturers invest in next-generation mobility and electrified transportation solutions.