Verification of Autonomous Operation and Remote Monitoring Capabilities

NuCube proposes to partner with Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) to verify an autonomous control architecture using a Digital Twin of the DeccaCell reactor. ANL will adapt its existing autonomous operation and diagnostics framework to demonstrate automated startup, remote monitoring, islanding-mode transitions, and predictive maintenance within a validated simulation environment. The project will generate a technically defensible basis for reduced staffing models and support future DOE and NRC licensing engagement.

NuCube Energy

partnered with

Argonne National Laboratory

Verification of Autonomous Operation and Remote Monitoring Capabilities of the NuCube Microreactor – NE-26-38851

YEAR AWARDED: FY-2026

ABSTRACT:

NuCube Energy, located in Idaho Falls, ID, is developing the DeccaCell™ heat pipe microreactor to deliver high-temperature process heat (>1000°C) and reliable electricity for industrial, remote, and off-grid applications. For microreactors, fixed staffing costs can dominate operating expenses, adding an estimated $60–$100/MWh and threatening commercial viability. Demonstrating safe, reliable autonomous operation with substantially reduced on-site staffing is therefore critical to deployment.

NuCube proposes to partner with Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) to verify an autonomous control architecture using a Digital Twin of the DeccaCell reactor. ANL will adapt its existing autonomous operation and diagnostics framework to demonstrate automated startup, remote monitoring, islanding-mode transitions, and predictive maintenance within a validated simulation environment. The project will generate a technically defensible basis for reduced staffing models and support future DOE and NRC licensing engagement.

Successful completion will lower operational costs, enhance safety through advanced automation and fail-safe responses, and enable commercialization of high-temperature nuclear process heat for industrial decarbonization and remote energy applications.

Voucher Abstract