Aalo-X

Demonstrating the future of nuclear x AI

Experimental power plant, purpose-built for directly powering an AI data center. Currently under construction next to Idaho National Lab. Will prove the 10 MW Aalo-1 reactor for use in future 50 MW Pods.

Countdown to Aalo-X

0 MONTHS 1 Hours 35 Mins 6 Secs

Mission: Criticality by July 4, 2026.

Completed

Approved to Proceed by DOE

We executed a contract with DOE allowing us to build and operate Aalo-X at INL.

Site Preparation & Excavation

Grading, utilities, and foundation excavation for reactor and balance-of-plant areas.

In Progress

Preliminary Design Review

We assess and design out natural disaster risk and demonstrate safety analyses.

Basemat & Ground Slab Pour

Reinforced concrete foundation for the Steel Composite (SC) reactor building modules.

Completed

Site Prep & Excavation

We are leveling the site and excavating below-grade structures, readying the foundation.

Steel Composite Module Installation

Rapid assembly of prefabricated SC wall and roof modules for containment

IN PROGRESS

Basemat & Ground Slab Pour

Aalo-X structures include the reactor building, control center, turbine building, and electrical infrastructure.

Reactor Vessel Placement

Setting and alignment of the primary reactor vessel and support structures.

Completed

Module Fabrication and Site Assembly

In our Austin TX factory, we build modules to ship and install on site.

Fuel Loading & Zero Power Criticality

Insertion of UO₂ fuel elements and initial low-power physics tests to confirm criticality behavior.

Upcoming

Steel-Concrete Composite Assembly

SC composite walls combine the best structural and shielding properties of both materials.

Primary System Integration

Installation of core support, sodium piping, pumps, and heat exchangers within the vessel boundary.

in progress

Fuel and Moderator Installation

In the reactor vessel, we will load fuel and moderator assemblies into a matrix.

Secondary Loop & Heat Rejection Systems

Installation of intermediate sodium loop, air heat exchangers, and natural-draft stacks.

Upcoming

Electrical, Control, and I&C Final Testing

Control rods are tested and qualified for performance to design basis and beyond design basis conditions.

Electrical, Control, and I&C Installation

Wiring, control cabinets, autonomous system integration, and instrumentation calibration.

JULY 4, 2026

A Historic Milestone: Criticality

Aalo takes an advanced reactor to criticality less than 3 years after its founding.

Non-Nuclear Commissioning & Sodium Fill

System flush, inert gas purge, sodium loading, and heat-transport testing.

Upcoming

Criticality Provides Licensing Foundation

Experiments in Aalo-X provide physics, materials, and performance data, setting us up for commercial licensing.

Full Power Operation & Balance-of-Plant Commissioning

Gradual power ascension, turbine-generator synchronization, and steady-state operation.