Aternium Plans $380 Million Heavy Water and Hydrogen Facility in Dover, Delaware

Aternium’s proposed $380 million heavy water and high-purity hydrogen production facility in Dover, Delaware, has been accepted into the state’s JobsFirst Permitting Accelerator, Governor Matt Meyer announced on October 30, 2026. The company selected Dover’s Garrison Oak Business and Technology Park in August for what would be its first U.S. heavy water and hydrogen plant.

About 50 permanent jobs

The project is expected to create about 50 permanent jobs. Aternium targets the start of construction in late November 2027, followed by an 18-month build. The project remains in the planning phase, and permitting approvals have not yet begun.

Domestic heavy water supply

The 60 MW facility is planned to produce about 24 metric tons of hydrogen per day and 15 metric tons of heavy water per year, supplying high-purity hydrogen to Mid-Atlantic industry and restoring domestic heavy water production.

JobsFirst Permitting Accelerator

The accelerator brings state agencies together to coordinate reviews and speed up permitting for priority job-creating projects.

Andrew Cottone, Founder and CEO of Aternium said:

“America needs a reliable domestic supply of heavy water, and Aternium is bringing that production back to the U.S. – starting in Delaware.”

Delaware Governor Matt Meyer said:

“Aternium is bringing the kind of cutting-edge manufacturing, private investment and good-paying jobs that will help grow our economy.”