Transmission How Quantum Sensors Could Transform Nuclear Power - EPRI
Feb 24, 2026
Emma Wong, Nuclear Principal Lead at EPRI who applies quantum sensing to grid and nuclear reliability. She discusses atom-based, no-drift sensors and near-term quantum LiDAR. Topics include underwater and plant inspections, cutting nuclear downtime with faster sensing, pilots with utilities, and combining quantum methods with AI for faster, leaner analytics.
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No‑Drift Sensing From Atomic References
- Quantum sensors use atomic properties as fixed references to deliver direct, no‑drift measurements.
- Emma Wong explains a free electron in an atom emits a photon with always the same energy, eliminating repeated recalibration common in electronic sensors.
Quantum LiDAR Lets You See Through Murky Water
- Quantum LiDAR can identify specific returning photons to see through haze, murky water and extend range underwater.
- Emma says demonstrations are near term, with commercial pilots plausible within a year to 18 months for water and air inspections.
Better Sensing Cuts Nuclear Outage Costs
- Faster, higher‑quality inspections can dramatically cut nuclear outage costs tied to lengthy preemptive maintenance.
- Emma notes outages historically lasted months but better sensors have cut inspections to days or weeks, saving millions per day not generated.