Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

Major Energy and Environmental News and Commentary affecting the Nuclear Industry.

Friday, December 4, 2015

"The Science of Nuclear Plant Explosions" by Meg Marquardt.


"The Science of Nuclear Plant Explosions" by Meg Marquardt.

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26111108-disaster-science

Massey Energy CEO Don Blankenship Found Guilty of Willfully Violating Mine Health and Safety Standards Leading to the Deaths of 29 Miners in the Upper Big Branch Mining Disaster | Mining Awareness Plus

Massey Energy CEO Don Blankenship Found Guilty of Willfully Violating Mine Health and Safety Standards Leading to the Deaths of 29 Miners in the Upper Big Branch Mining Disaster | Mining Awareness Plus

Indonesia and ThorCon to Develop Thorium MSR

Indonesia and ThorCon to Develop Thorium MSR


http://www.itheo.org/articles/indonesia-and-thorcon-develop-thorium-msr

COP21: Booming Urbanization Means More Electricity, And All Sources Need Apply

COP21: Booming Urbanization Means More Electricity, And All Sources Need Apply


http://www.forbes.com/sites/judeclemente/2015/12/03/cop21-booming-urbanization-means-more-electricity-and-all-sources-need-apply/

IAEA's Final Report on Iran Nuclear Program Defends Discredited Parchin Cylinder Claims

IAEA's Final Report on Iran Nuclear Program Defends Discredited Parchin Cylinder Claims


http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/33914-iaea-s-final-report-on-iran-nuclear-program-defends-discredited-parchin-cylinder-claims

New York debating value of nuclear power in state's future

New York debating value of nuclear power in state's future


http://wrvo.org/post/new-york-debating-value-nuclear-power-states-future#stream/0

Pennsylvania-based Westinghouse supports BWR plants with streamlined systems | Pennsylvania Business Daily

Pennsylvania-based Westinghouse supports BWR plants with streamlined systems | Pennsylvania Business Daily

Nuclear commission to ease up on plant oversight

Nuclear commission to ease up on plant oversight


http://www.patriotledger.com/article/20151204/NEWS/151207864

ANS Nuclear Cafe Update: ANS Friday Nuclear Matinee – CP-1 Anniversary


ANS Friday Nuclear Matinee – CP-1 Anniversary

By Will Davis on Dec 04, 2015 10:12 am

This week’s Friday Nuclear Matinee is a video from Argonne National Laboratory marking the anniversary of the December 2, 1942 startup of the world’s first “atomic chain reacting pile,” or Continue Reading →
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Cutting CO2: the advantages of China's top-down system | Marketplace.org

Cutting CO2: the advantages of China's top-down system | Marketplace.org

Nuclear Power Must Make a Comeback for Climate's Sake - Scientific American

Nuclear Power Must Make a Comeback for Climate's Sake - Scientific American

The Hypersonic Arms Race Is Going Nuclear -- Take Note | Yousaf Butt

The Hypersonic Arms Race Is Going Nuclear -- Take Note | Yousaf Butt

China has an awful safety record — and wants to run 110 nuclear reactors by 2030 - The Washington Post

China has an awful safety record — and wants to run 110 nuclear reactors by 2030 - The Washington Post

China's nuclear submarines: The end of "No First Use?" | Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

China's nuclear submarines: The end of "No First Use?" | Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

Russia: No longer in climate denial

Russia: No longer in climate denial


http://thebulletin.org/russia-no-longer-climate-denial

Obama's opaque administration makes it harder to cover climate change

Obama's opaque administration makes it harder to cover climate change


http://thebulletin.org/obamas-opaque-administration-makes-it-harder-cover-climate-change

UK sets aside funds for 'ambitious' nuclear research and development program


UK sets aside funds for 'ambitious' nuclear research and development program

http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-UK-sets-aside-funds-for-ambitious-nuclear-research-and-development-program-26111501.html

India receives first uranium shipment from Canada

India receives first uranium shipment from Canada
The first shipment of uranium from Canada under a five-year contract signed in April has arrived in India. It marks Cameco's first supply of uranium to India.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/UF-India-receives-first-uranium-shipment-from-Canada-0412155.html

GEH wins $70 million contract to service Browns Ferry

GEH wins $70 million contract to service Browns Ferry
The Tennessee Valley Authority has awarded GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy a contract worth more than $70 million to provide outage services for units 1, 2 and 3 of the Browns Ferry nuclear power plant. According to the agreement, GEH will provide "a full portfolio" of outage and inspection services, including refuel floor, under-vessel activities and control rod drive mechanism exchange services for the reactors near Decatur, Alabama.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/C-GEH-wins-70-million-contract-to-service-Browns-Ferry-4121501.html

IEEE Working with Testing Labs on Global Nuclear Power Standards

IEEE Working with Testing Labs on Global Nuclear Power Standards


http://www.power-eng.com/articles/2015/12/ieee-working-with-testing-labs-on-global-nuclear-power-standards.html?cmpid=enl-poe-weekly-december-4-2015&eid=288118515&bid=1248862

NRC Approves Changes to Reactor Oversight Process

NRC Approves Changes to Reactor Oversight Process


http://www.power-eng.com/articles/2015/12/nrc-approves-changes-to-reactor-oversight-process.html?cmpid=enl-poe-weekly-december-4-2015&eid=288118515&bid=1248862

Areva to Manufacture SMR Fuel Assemblies for NuScale

Areva to Manufacture SMR Fuel Assemblies for NuScale


http://www.power-eng.com/articles/2015/12/areva-to-manufacture-smr-fuel-assemblies-for-nuscale.html?cmpid=enl-poe-weekly-december-4-2015&eid=288118515&bid=1248862

$3.1 Billion in Investments Expected for US Power Industry Water Rules


$3.1 Billion in Investments Expected for US Power Industry Water Rules

http://www.power-eng.com/articles/2015/12/3-1-billion-in-investments-expected-for-us-power-industry-water-rules.html?cmpid=enl-poe-weekly-december-4-2015&eid=288118515&bid=1248862

Russia's Rosatom ready to work with Japanese NPP suppliers

Russia's Rosatom ready to work with Japanese NPP suppliers Moscow (Sputnik) Dec 04, 2015 - Russia's state nuclear energy corporation Rosatom is ready to develop cooperation with Japanese equipment suppliers to construct nuclear power plants, Rosatom's first deputy CEO for international business and development said Friday. We are ready to actively invite Japanese companies to cooperate on the realization of Russian projects on construction of nuclear power plants abroad," Kirill ... morehttp://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Russias_Rosatom_Ready_to_Work_With_Japanese_NPP_Equipment_Suppliers_999.html

Hungary open to dialogue with EU over nuclear plant expansion

Hungary open to dialogue with EU over nuclear plant expansion Moscow (Sputnik) Dec 04, 2015 - Hungary is open to talks with the European Union to build additional reacts for its only nuclear power plant in partnership with Russia, Hungary's chief of expansion said at an energy conference Monday. Attila Aszodi said two weeks ago that Hungary planned to begin building two new Paks Water-Water Energetic Reactors (VVER) with 1,200 Megawatts in gross output in 2018. Located 62 miles sou ... morehttp://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Hungary_open_to_dialogue_with_EU_over_nuclear_plant_expansion_999.html

Why Europe will soon be cold

Why Europe will soon be cold Moscow, Russia (SPX) Dec 04, 2015 - What is the climate waiting for Russia and Europe in 15-20 years? Will be there weather abnormalities in the coming decades? Will some areas experience more severe winter, while the others will have hot summer? It all depends on how much the climate will be affected by the dynamics of the possible onset of minimum solar magnetic activity. The Sun's behaviour in future cycles is the main theme of ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Why_Europe_will_soon_be_cold_999.html

Poor nations warn climate deal will fail without money deal

Poor nations warn climate deal will fail without money deal

Rapid plankton growth in ocean seen as sign of carbon dioxide loading

Rapid plankton growth in ocean seen as sign of carbon dioxide loading

Eyes in the sky track health of Earth's African 'lung'

Eyes in the sky track health of Earth's African 'lung'

Forget FIFA: China Battles Corruption by Banning Golf | GAB | The Global Anticorruption Blog

Forget FIFA: China Battles Corruption by Banning Golf | GAB | The Global Anticorruption Blog

Exelon supports, Entergy rejects New York plan to save upstate nuclear units


Exelon supports, Entergy rejects New York plan to save upstate nuclear units



http://www.platts.com/latest-news/electric-power/birmingham-alabama/exelon-supports-entergy-rejects-new-york-plan-21562105

Suit gives power to clean-up workers

Suit gives power to clean-up workersA power assist suit to help workers following a serious nuclear accident has been jointly developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Japan Atomic Power Company. The device enables workers to lift loads up to 40kg.


http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/RS-Suit-gives-power-to-clean-up-workers-0312154.html

Energy & Commerce CommitteeSubEnvEcon Examines Budgetary Issues of Nuclear Waste Fund

#SubEnvEcon Examines Budgetary Issues of Nuclear Waste Fund

December 3, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC – The Environment and the Economy Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL), today held a hearing examining the funding, budgetary and scoring issues associated with efforts to manage and dispose of our nation’s spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste – specifically as it relates to the Nuclear Waste Fund. Today’s hearing built on the subcommittee’s previous work examining specific challenges managing used fuel and national defense waste.
Americans around the country, who rely on clean nuclear power, have paid a tax on electricity generated from commercial nuclear power plants to study, license, and construct a permanent repository for over thirty years. Unfortunately, the fund has not been managed as Congress intended and significant issues exist surrounding the fund. As Chairman Shimkus stated, “The budgetary and scoring treatment of the Nuclear Waste Fund is broken. Since the fee was instituted over 30 years ago, ratepayers in my home state of Illinois have contributed more than any other state at over $2.3 billion to the Nuclear Waste Fund and budgetary and funding challenges have been further complicated by President Obama’s legally dubious decision to walk away from Yucca Mountain.”
Kim P. Cawley, Chief of Natural and Physical Resources Cost Estimates Unit at the Congressional Budget Office testified on the plight of the Department of Energy’s budgetary failures, stating, “DOE is more than 17 years behind schedule in its contractual obligations to remove and dispose of civilian nuclear waste. … The federal government has already paid $5.3 billion in damages to electric utilities, and DOE estimates that its remaining liabilities will total $23.7 billion.”
Travis Kavulla, Commissioner of the Montana Public Service Commission and President of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, touched upon the failures of the federal government to develop a plan when it comes to nuclear waste disposal, saying, “Federal officials continue to “kick the cask” down the road. There is no nuclear waste program worthy of the name, despite exhaustive studies and billions in ratepayer and taxpayer dollars spent. All that remains is the nuclear waste, which sits on site at nuclear reactors, some of them closed. This is not only uneconomic. It undermines confidence in nuclear power.… The U.S. government has not lived up to the promises made under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act and subsequent Congressional enactments. This is not a matter of opinion, but of legal record….”
Chairman Shimkus concluded, “Today’s hearing exemplifies the frivolous waste of taxpayer dollars and failure of DOE to establish and develop a permanent nuclear waste facility. The 1982 outlook for nuclear power was more optimistic than today’s. That means a shrinking fleet of operating reactors must provide adequate financial resources for a 100-year program. Today gave us a better perspective as to how and why these budget changes have complicated the program to permanently dispose of used fuel.”
- See more at: http://energycommerce.house.gov/press-release/subenvecon-examines-budgetary-issues-nuclear-waste-fund#sthash.hHZFYh7Y.dpuf

#SubEnvEcon Examines Budgetary Issues of Nuclear Waste Fund

December 3, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC – The Environment and the Economy Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL), today held a hearing examining the funding, budgetary and scoring issues associated with efforts to manage and dispose of our nation’s spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste – specifically as it relates to the Nuclear Waste Fund. Today’s hearing built on the subcommittee’s previous work examining specific challenges managing used fuel and national defense waste.
Americans around the country, who rely on clean nuclear power, have paid a tax on electricity generated from commercial nuclear power plants to study, license, and construct a permanent repository for over thirty years. Unfortunately, the fund has not been managed as Congress intended and significant issues exist surrounding the fund. As Chairman Shimkus stated, “The budgetary and scoring treatment of the Nuclear Waste Fund is broken. Since the fee was instituted over 30 years ago, ratepayers in my home state of Illinois have contributed more than any other state at over $2.3 billion to the Nuclear Waste Fund and budgetary and funding challenges have been further complicated by President Obama’s legally dubious decision to walk away from Yucca Mountain.”
Kim P. Cawley, Chief of Natural and Physical Resources Cost Estimates Unit at the Congressional Budget Office testified on the plight of the Department of Energy’s budgetary failures, stating, “DOE is more than 17 years behind schedule in its contractual obligations to remove and dispose of civilian nuclear waste. … The federal government has already paid $5.3 billion in damages to electric utilities, and DOE estimates that its remaining liabilities will total $23.7 billion.”
Travis Kavulla, Commissioner of the Montana Public Service Commission and President of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, touched upon the failures of the federal government to develop a plan when it comes to nuclear waste disposal, saying, “Federal officials continue to “kick the cask” down the road. There is no nuclear waste program worthy of the name, despite exhaustive studies and billions in ratepayer and taxpayer dollars spent. All that remains is the nuclear waste, which sits on site at nuclear reactors, some of them closed. This is not only uneconomic. It undermines confidence in nuclear power.… The U.S. government has not lived up to the promises made under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act and subsequent Congressional enactments. This is not a matter of opinion, but of legal record….”
Chairman Shimkus concluded, “Today’s hearing exemplifies the frivolous waste of taxpayer dollars and failure of DOE to establish and develop a permanent nuclear waste facility. The 1982 outlook for nuclear power was more optimistic than today’s. That means a shrinking fleet of operating reactors must provide adequate financial resources for a 100-year program. Today gave us a better perspective as to how and why these budget changes have complicated the program to permanently dispose of used fuel.”
- See more at: http://energycommerce.house.gov/press-release/subenvecon-examines-budgetary-issues-nuclear-waste-fund#sthash.hHZFYh7Y.dpuf

#SubEnvEcon Examines Budgetary Issues of Nuclear Waste Fund

December 3, 2015
WASHINGTON, DC – The Environment and the Economy Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL), today held a hearing examining the funding, budgetary and scoring issues associated with efforts to manage and dispose of our nation’s spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste – specifically as it relates to the Nuclear Waste Fund. Today’s hearing built on the subcommittee’s previous work examining specific challenges managing used fuel and national defense waste.
Americans around the country, who rely on clean nuclear power, have paid a tax on electricity generated from commercial nuclear power plants to study, license, and construct a permanent repository for over thirty years. Unfortunately, the fund has not been managed as Congress intended and significant issues exist surrounding the fund. As Chairman Shimkus stated, “The budgetary and scoring treatment of the Nuclear Waste Fund is broken. Since the fee was instituted over 30 years ago, ratepayers in my home state of Illinois have contributed more than any other state at over $2.3 billion to the Nuclear Waste Fund and budgetary and funding challenges have been further complicated by President Obama’s legally dubious decision to walk away from Yucca Mountain.”
Kim P. Cawley, Chief of Natural and Physical Resources Cost Estimates Unit at the Congressional Budget Office testified on the plight of the Department of Energy’s budgetary failures, stating, “DOE is more than 17 years behind schedule in its contractual obligations to remove and dispose of civilian nuclear waste. … The federal government has already paid $5.3 billion in damages to electric utilities, and DOE estimates that its remaining liabilities will total $23.7 billion.”
Travis Kavulla, Commissioner of the Montana Public Service Commission and President of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, touched upon the failures of the federal government to develop a plan when it comes to nuclear waste disposal, saying, “Federal officials continue to “kick the cask” down the road. There is no nuclear waste program worthy of the name, despite exhaustive studies and billions in ratepayer and taxpayer dollars spent. All that remains is the nuclear waste, which sits on site at nuclear reactors, some of them closed. This is not only uneconomic. It undermines confidence in nuclear power.… The U.S. government has not lived up to the promises made under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act and subsequent Congressional enactments. This is not a matter of opinion, but of legal record….”
Chairman Shimkus concluded, “Today’s hearing exemplifies the frivolous waste of taxpayer dollars and failure of DOE to establish and develop a permanent nuclear waste facility. The 1982 outlook for nuclear power was more optimistic than today’s. That means a shrinking fleet of operating reactors must provide adequate financial resources for a 100-year program. Today gave us a better perspective as to how and why these budget changes have complicated the program to permanently dispose of used fuel.”
- See more at: http://energycommerce.house.gov/press-release/subenvecon-examines-budgetary-issues-nuclear-waste-fund#sthash.hHZFYh7Y.dpuf
SubEnvEcon Examines Budgetary Issues of Nuclear Waste Fund - See more at: http://energycommerce.house.gov/press-release/subenvecon-examines-budgetary-issues-nuclear-waste-fund#sthash.hHZFYh7Y.dpuf

WASHINGTON, DC – The Environment and the Economy Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL), today held a hearing examining the funding, budgetary and scoring issues associated with efforts to manage and dispose of our nation’s spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste – specifically as it relates to the Nuclear Waste Fund. Today’s hearing built on the subcommittee’s previous work examining specific challenges managing used fuel and national defense waste.
Americans around the country, who rely on clean nuclear power, have paid a tax on electricity generated from commercial nuclear power plants to study, license, and construct a permanent repository for over thirty years. Unfortunately, the fund has not been managed as Congress intended and significant issues exist surrounding the fund. As Chairman Shimkus stated, “The budgetary and scoring treatment of the Nuclear Waste Fund is broken. Since the fee was instituted over 30 years ago, ratepayers in my home state of Illinois have contributed more than any other state at over $2.3 billion to the Nuclear Waste Fund and budgetary and funding challenges have been further complicated by President Obama’s legally dubious decision to walk away from Yucca Mountain.”
Kim P. Cawley, Chief of Natural and Physical Resources Cost Estimates Unit at the Congressional Budget Office testified on the plight of the Department of Energy’s budgetary failures, stating, “DOE is more than 17 years behind schedule in its contractual obligations to remove and dispose of civilian nuclear waste. … The federal government has already paid $5.3 billion in damages to electric utilities, and DOE estimates that its remaining liabilities will total $23.7 billion.”
Travis Kavulla, Commissioner of the Montana Public Service Commission and President of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, touched upon the failures of the federal government to develop a plan when it comes to nuclear waste disposal, saying, “Federal officials continue to “kick the cask” down the road. There is no nuclear waste program worthy of the name, despite exhaustive studies and billions in ratepayer and taxpayer dollars spent. All that remains is the nuclear waste, which sits on site at nuclear reactors, some of them closed. This is not only uneconomic. It undermines confidence in nuclear power.… The U.S. government has not lived up to the promises made under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act and subsequent Congressional enactments. This is not a matter of opinion, but of legal record….”
Chairman Shimkus concluded, “Today’s hearing exemplifies the frivolous waste of taxpayer dollars and failure of DOE to establish and develop a permanent nuclear waste facility. The 1982 outlook for nuclear power was more optimistic than today’s. That means a shrinking fleet of operating reactors must provide adequate financial resources for a 100-year program. Today gave us a better perspective as to how and why these budget changes have complicated the program to permanently dispose of used fuel.”
- See more at: http://energycommerce.house.gov/press-release/subenvecon-examines-budgetary-issues-nuclear-waste-fund#sthash.hHZFYh7Y.dpuf
http://energycommerce.house.gov/press-release/subenvecon-examines-budgetary-issues-nuclear-waste-fund

‘Father Of Climate Change’ James Hansen Urges Support For Nuclear Energy At #COP21 Climate Talks

‘Father Of Climate Change’ James Hansen Urges Support For Nuclear Energy At #COP21 Climate Talks


https://newmatilda.com/2015/12/04/father-of-climate-change-james-hansen-urges-support-for-nuclear-energy-at-cop21-climate-talks/

ACTION ALERT Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act

ACTION ALERT
Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act
Nuclear energy is an American invention: developed in Department of Energy labs by talented researchers, it powers electric grids, sterilizes blood donations, and keeps your smoke alarm running. However, without support and investment, America risks losing its position as the global nuclear technology leader.
The Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act (H.R.4048), introduced November 19th in Congress, directs the Department of Energy to prioritize its research and development infrastructure on capabilities to enable the private sector to develop advanced reactor technologies—technologies that can yield less waste, engender higher thermal efficiency, and enhance resistance to proliferation. The bill provides a clear pathway for private investment in prototype development in DOE labs.
Twenty members of Congress have already cosponsored the bill. If your member of Congress is not already cosponsoring the bill (view cosponsors here), call or email your representative today and ask them to cosponsor the Nuclear Energy Innovation Act!
 
Key points to emphasize:
  • Nuclear innovation keeps America technologically superior and maintains our global leadership position in nuclear science.
  • Nuclear power is America’s largest low-carbon energy source, providing close to 60% of our low-carbon power.
  • The benefits of nuclear innovation are not limited to the power sector; space exploration, medical applications, and national security all rely on nuclear technology that requires time, expense, and talent to develop.
© 2015 Nuclear Advocacy Network

Electric Utilities Now Focusing On Cybersecurity With Compliance Deadlines Looming

Electric Utilities Now Focusing On Cybersecurity With Compliance Deadlines Looming



http://breakingenergy.com/2015/12/03/electric-utilities-now-focusing-on-cybersecurity-with-compliance-deadlines-looming/?utm_campaign=Breaking+Energy+Daily+Digest&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=24298526&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8eci9x3yTaxhiidYmNF4i2hqVChRAn9hxL2SzBf_hZu4VweKPxlSBn7xozfK6kVgetBDYGo0rAwT9BeKFLOmxoB5t8Xw&_hsmi=24298526

Nuclear crossroad: California reactors face uncertain future

Nuclear crossroad: California reactors face uncertain future

$subtitles.get($x) The uncertainty around PG&E's 3-decade-old plant comes at a challenging time for the company and the U.S. nuclear industry, once thought on the verge of a renaissance. … Continue Reading http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/11/nuclear-crossroad-california-reactors-face-uncertain-future.html?cmpid=EnlWeeklyPowerDecember42015&eid=288118515&bid=1248973

Health: The Glaring Omission at COP21

Health: The Glaring Omission at COP21


http://www.huffingtonpost.com/olivier-brandicourt/health-the-glaring-omissi_1_b_8707444.html

EnergySolutions says state requirements for depleted uranium too stringent

EnergySolutions says state requirements for depleted uranium too stringent


http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865642886/EnergySolutions-says-state-requirements-for-depleted-uranium-too-stringent.html

U.S. presidential contenders differ sharply on climate, energy

U.S. presidential contenders differ sharply on climate, energy


http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/11/u-s-presidential-contenders-differ-sharply-on-climate-energy.html?eid=288118515&bid=1248970

EPA boosts amount of ethanol in gasoline supply

EPA boosts amount of ethanol in gasoline supply

$subtitles.get($x) The Obama administration is boosting the amount of corn-based ethanol and other renewable fuels in the U.S. gasoline supply despite sustained opposition by an unusual alliance of oil companies, environmentalists and some GOP presidential candidates. … Continue Reading http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/11/petroleum-news-epa-boosts-amount-of-ethanol-in-gasoline-supply.html?cmpid=EnlWeeklyPetroDecember42015&eid=288118515&bid=1248970

UPDATE 2-E.ON, RWE could drop lawsuits as part of nuclear decommissioning deal

UPDATE 2-E.ON, RWE could drop lawsuits as part of nuclear decommissioning deal
http://www.reuters.com/article/rwe-nuclear-idUSL8N13I1R820151123?type=companyNews#cPUqsO0f890STe7g.97

California entrepreneurs push to reinvent the nuclear industry


California entrepreneurs push to reinvent the nuclear industry

http://www.latimes.com/nation/politics/la-na-climate-nuclear-energy-20151204-story.html

UPDATE 4-Germany's RWE splits to better absorb cost of nuclear plant closures

UPDATE 4-Germany's RWE splits to better absorb cost of nuclear plant closures
Read more at Reutershttp://www.reuters.com/article/rwe-restructuring-idUSL8N13Q2CP20151201#HX77IkJcj4l4Ke31.99


http://www.reuters.com/article/rwe-restructuring-idUSL8N13Q2CP20151201?type=companyNews#SFjqBiUXIWACJH6X.97

Experts split over nuclear power as panacea for climate change

Experts split over nuclear power as panacea for climate change


https://uk.news.yahoo.com/experts-split-over-nuclear-power-095611559.html#pTwe9gL

Nuclear power as panacea for climate change? Experts divided


https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/nuclear-power-panacea-climate-change-095019355.html

Experts split over nuclear power as panacea for climate change


https://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/business/world/a/30277073/nuclear-power-as-panacea-for-climate-change-experts-divided/

Nuclear Power in China



http://www.world-nuclear.org/info/country-profiles/countries-a-f/china--nuclear-power/

Fukushima agrees to accept ‘low-level’ nuclear waste from 2011 disaster

Fukushima agrees to accept ‘low-level’ nuclear waste from 2011 disaster


http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/12/04/national/two-mayors-in-fukushima-ok-final-disposal-of-low-level-nuclear-waste/#.VmGqy3uKI-8

Radiation from Fukushima spreads off US coast – monitor

Radiation from Fukushima spreads off US coast – monitor


https://www.rt.com/news/324722-fukushima-radiation-pacific-levels/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=RSS

110 nuclear reactors to be operational by 2030

110 nuclear reactors to be operational by 2030


http://en.chinagate.cn/2015-12/04/content_37236883.htm

Radiation from Japan nuclear disaster spreads off U.S. shores

Radiation from Japan nuclear disaster spreads off U.S. shores


Higher levels of Fukushima radiation detected off West Coast
http://www.reuters.com/article/japan-nuclear-usa-idINL1N13S33220151203#GRg9FxzMgSPXgUs1.97

Higher levels of Fukushima radiation detected off West Coast

Higher levels of Fukushima radiation detected off West Coast


http://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/tech/science/environment/2015/12/03/higher-levels-fukushima-radiation-detected-off-west-coast/76719230/

Higher levels of Fukushima cesium detected offshore

 Higher levels of Fukushima cesium detected offshore   

http://phys.org/news/2015-12-higher-fukushima-cesium-offshore.html

ENE News Update: Record levels of Fukushima radiation detected off West Coast

Record levels of Fukushima radiation detected off West Coast — Massive plume stretches for more than 1,000 miles — Reuters: Contamination is spreading off U.S. shores — Radioactive cesium reaches 11 Bq/m3 at multiple locations (MAP)

Published: December 3rd, 2015 at 7:45 pm ET
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Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Dec 3, 2015 (emphasis added): Higher levels of Fukushima cesium detected offshore — Scientists monitoring the spread of radiation in the ocean from the Fukushima nuclear accident report finding an increased number of sites off the US West Coast showing signs of contamination from Fukushima. This includes the highest detected level to date from a sample collected about 1,600 miles west of San Francisco. The level of radioactive cesium isotopes in the sample, 11 Becquerel’s per cubic meter… is 50 percent higher than other samples collected along the West Coast so far… Working with Japanese colleagues, [Ken Buesseler, a WHOI marine radiochemist] also continues to independently monitor the ongoing leaks from Fukushima Dai-ichi by collecting samples… During his most recent trip this October they collected samples of ocean water, marine organisms, seafloor sediment and groundwater along the coast near the reactors. Buesseler says the levels of radioactivity off Fukushima remain elevated – some 10 to 100 times higher than off the US West Coast today, and he is working with colleagues at WHOI to try to determine how much radioactive material is still being released to the ocean each day.
Ken Buesseler, WHOI: “These new data are important for two reasons… the changing values underscore the need to more closely monitor contamination levels across the Pacific. Second, these long-lived radioisotopes will serve as markers for years to come for scientists studying ocean currents and mixing in coastal and offshore waters… [F]inding values that are still elevated off Fukushima confirms that there is continued release from the plant.”
Statesman Journal, Dec 3, 2015: Higher levels of Fukushima radiation detected off West Coast — Higher levels of radiation from Japan’s 2011 Fukushima nuclear accident are showing up in the ocean off the west coast of North America, scientists from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution reported today. And an increased number of sampling sites are showing signs of contamination… This year, Buesseler has added about 110 new sample results to 135 already on the project’s web site. They include the highest detected level to date, from a sample collected about 1,600 miles west of San Francisco.
Reuters, Dec 3, 2015: Radiation from Japan nuclear disaster spreads off U.S. shores… and contamination is increasing at previously identified sites… Tests of hundreds of samples of Pacific Ocean water confirmed that Japan’s Fukushima nuclear power plant continues to leak… The latest readings measured the highest radiation levels outside Japanese waters to date some 1,600 miles (2,574 km) west of San Francisco. The figures also confirm that the spread of radiation to North American waters is not isolated to a handful of locations, but can be detected along a stretch of more than 1,000 miles (1,600 km) offshore.

Thursday, December 3, 2015

US developing new drones, long-range cruise missile in response to Russia

US developing new drones, long-range cruise missile in response to Russia Washington DC (Sputnik) Dec 03, 2015 - The United States is preparing upgraded defense capabilities and other new technologies to respond to alleged Russian military provocations, US Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Brian McKeon told the House Armed Services Committee. "We are investing in technologies that are most relevant to Russia's provocations, developing new unmanned systems, a new long-range bomber, a new long-range ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_developing_new_drones_long_range_cruise_missile_in_response_to_Russia_999.html

US was unaware of Russian underwater nuclear delivery system

US was unaware of Russian underwater nuclear delivery system Washington DC (Sputnik) Dec 03, 2015 - The United States did not know about Russia's nuclear undersea delivery system when the two countries negotiated the New START Treaty, US Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Rose Gottemoeller said in a hearing. "The answer to that question is unequivocal 'no'," Gottemoeller stated on Tuesday when asked whether the United States was aware of the existence of ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_was_unaware_of_Russian_underwater_nuclear_delivery_system_999.html

Photos show new N. Korea nuclear test tunnel: US think tank

Photos show new N. Korea nuclear test tunnel: US think tank Seoul (AFP) Dec 3, 2015 - Recent satellite imagery suggests North Korea is excavating a new tunnel at its main nuclear test site, although there are no indications that a test in imminent, a US think tank said Thursday. The tunnel is in a new area of the Punggye-ri site, separate from three other tunnels that the North has excavated or used for actual tests in the post, the US-Korea Institute at Johns Hopkins Univers ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Photos_show_new_N_Korea_nuclear_test_tunnel_US_think_tank_999.html

Why are fossil fuel companies sponsoring the Paris climate talks? | Grist

Why are fossil fuel companies sponsoring the Paris climate talks? | Grist

USGS projects large loss of Alaska permafrost by 2100

http://www.spacedaily.com/reports/USGS_projects_large_loss_of_Alaska_permafrost_by_2100_999.html

Wind & Solar Cheaper Than Fossils & Nuclear Now | CleanTechnica

Wind & Solar Cheaper Than Fossils & Nuclear Now | CleanTechnica

It's Time to Discuss Geoengineering

It's Time to Discuss Geoengineering


http://nationalinterest.org/blog/paul-pillar/its-time-discuss-geoengineering-14490

U.S. Set to Lift Sanctions on Iran

U.S. Set to Lift Sanctions on Iran

IAEA found no credible evidence of recent atomic-weapons activity



http://www.wsj.com/articles/iaea-finds-some-iranian-nuclear-weapons-activity-continued-after-2003-1449078659

The climate war is over: Column Michael Shellenberger


The climate war is over: Column

Michael Shellenberger http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2015/12/02/fracking-ends-climate-change-wars-clean-energy-solutions-column/76663456/

Congressman Joe Wilson Praises Nuclear Energy in South Carolina

Congressman Joe Wilson Praises Nuclear Energy in South Carolina


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qo95Aq3hhg&feature=em-uploademail

The State of Physical Grid Security


The State of Physical Grid Security


http://app.assetdl.com/landingpage/state-of-physical-grid-security/?utm_campaign=UD_NL&first_name=Michele%20&last_name=Kearney&utm_content=ad-INT&company_type=Media%20/%20Analyst%20/%20Trade%20Association%20/%20Professional%20Society&utm_source=ABB&utm_medium=Survey_Report&company_name=Kearney%20Associates&job_level=Retired&job_function=Executive%20Management%20/%20Governance&email=micheletkearney%40gmail.com&job_title=&utm_term=Utility%20Dive

Fukushima Update 12/3/15

Fukushima Update 12/3/15

There is no Fukushima contamination in Alaska’s seafood… Fukushima InFORM summarizes a Japanese report on Fukushima freshwater fish… More Fukushima child thyroid cancer cases… Fukushima Prefecture approves a rural radioactive waste disposal site… The “Babushkas” of Chernobyl are living long, healthy lives… The mayor of Takahama approves two nuke restarts… Naoto Kan loses his Fukushima-related libel lawsuit against PM Shinzo Abe… Tepco settles a lawsuit alleging a suicide was due to the nuke accident… Some evacuees who will lose their free public housing in 15 months are not happy.

http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.com/fukushima-accident-updates.html

Russia reportedly delivers advanced missile systems to Iran - Business Insider

Russia reportedly delivers advanced missile systems to Iran - Business Insider

Why Finland now leads the world in nuclear waste storage

Why Finland now leads the world in nuclear waste storage

Other nations hope to learn from approval of the world’s first deep repository for spent nuclear fuel.


http://www.nature.com/news/why-finland-now-leads-the-world-in-nuclear-waste-storage-1.18903

Nuclear Energy gets a flag for COP 21

Nuclear Energy gets a flag for COP 21


http://neutronbytes.com/2015/12/02/nuclear-energy-gets-a-flag-for-cop21/

Cuomo plan to save nuclear plant a nonstarter, company officials say | POLITICO

Cuomo plan to save nuclear plant a nonstarter, company officials say | POLITICO

Entergy rejects Cuomo idea, says FitzPatrick nuclear plant will close for sure


http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2015/12/entergy_rejects_cuomo_idea_says_fitzpatrick_nuclear_plant_will_close_for_sure.html

The Carbon Solution Obama Won’t Take To Paris By Llewellyn King

Llewellyn King: The Carbon Solution Obama Won’t Take To Paris

By Llewellyn King

http://www.nucleartownhall.com/blog/llewellyn-king-the-carbon-solution-obama-wont-take-to-paris/

Making Climate Change Fashionable - The Garment Industry Takes On Global Warming

Making Climate Change Fashionable - The Garment Industry Takes On Global Warming


http://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesconca/2015/12/03/making-climate-change-fashionable-the-garment-industry-takes-on-global-warming/

NuScale And AREVA Strike Deal For SMR Fuel Assemblies

NuScale And AREVA Strike Deal For SMR Fuel Assemblies


http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2015/12/03/nuscale-and-areva-strike-deal-for-smr-fuel-assemblies-120302.aspx#.VmCWCHuKI-8

Longstanding Nuclear Safety Impairments Dave Lochbaum

Longstanding Nuclear Safety Impairments


http://allthingsnuclear.org/dlochbaum/longstanding-nuclear-safety-impairments

Presentation to NRC Commission on Lessons from Fukushima Dave Lochbaum

Presentation to NRC Commission on Lessons from Fukushima


http://allthingsnuclear.org/dlochbaum/presentation-to-nrc-commission-on-lessons-from-fukushima

Duane Arnold: The Safety Upgrade that Downgraded Safety Dave Lochbaum,

Duane Arnold: The Safety Upgrade that Downgraded Safety

,
http://allthingsnuclear.org/category/near-miss-summary

TVA receives licence to operate Watts Bar nuclear plant in US

TVA receives licence to operate Watts Bar nuclear plant in US


http://www.power-technology.com/news/newstva-receives-licence-operate-watts-bar-nuclear-plant-us-4700623

Scientists Tell Regulators Nuclear Energy Isn’t As Dangerous As They Once Thought

Scientists Tell Regulators Nuclear Energy Isn’t As Dangerous As They Once Thought


http://dailycaller.com/2015/12/02/scientists-tell-regulators-nuclear-energy-isnt-as-dangerous-as-they-once-thought/

In the public eye: nuclear energy and society

In the public eye: nuclear energy and society
Today, the UK nuclear industry publishes its Concordat on Public Engagement. Andrew Sherry, who has led the work as part of the Nuclear Industry Council, explains why.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/V-In-the-public-eye-nuclear-energy-and-society-0312151.html

Areva to supply fuel assemblies for NuScale SMR

Areva to supply fuel assemblies for NuScale SMR
Areva Inc has signed a contract to manufacture fuel assemblies for NuScale Power LLC's small modular reactor (SMR) technology, the two companies announced yesterday. Mechanical and thermal hydraulic testing of these new fuel assemblies are underway as part of Oregon, USA-based NuScale's design certification application, which is planned for submission to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission in late 2016.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-Areva-to-supply-fuel-assemblies-for-NuScale-SMR-3121501.html

Bayh: Nuclear energy and the future of Texas


Bayh: Nuclear energy and the future of Texas


http://www.mystatesman.com/news/news/opinion/bayh-nuclear-energy-and-the-future-of-texas/npbHh/

With Nuclear Plants Closing, NRC Revises Rules on Reactor Decommissioning

With Nuclear Plants Closing, NRC Revises Rules on Reactor Decommissioning


http://capeandislands.org/post/nuclear-plants-closing-nrc-revises-rules-reactor-decommissioning

How "New Nuclear" Power Could Save the Planet—If Regulators Would Allow It

How "New Nuclear" Power Could Save the Planet—If Regulators Would Allow It


http://hbswk.hbs.edu/item/how-new-nuclear-power-could-save-the-planet-and-8212-if-regulators-would-allow-it

GOP, Dems come together around the glow of nuclear power

GOP, Dems come together around the glow of nuclear power


http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/gop-dems-come-together-around-the-glow-of-nuclear-power/article/2577501?custom_click=rss

Bruce Power to invest $13B in nuclear station creating 23,000 jobs


Bruce Power to invest $13B in nuclear station creating 23,000 jobs

http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2015/12/03/bruce-power-to-invest-13b-in-nuclear-station-creating-23000-jobs.html

Bruce Power all set to invest in plant upgrades
Bruce Power and the Independent Electricity System Operator have entered into an amended, long-term agreement to secure 6300 MWe from the Bruce Power site, through a multi-year investment program. In a statement today, Ontario-based Bruce Power said the amended agreement - which will take economic effect on 1 January - will allow it to immediately invest in life-extension activities for units 3-8 to support a long-term refurbishment program that will commence on unit 6 in 2020.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/C-Bruce-Power-all-set-to-invest-in-plant-upgrades-3121502.html
 

Russia, Iran interested in construction new nuclear power plants in Iranian territory

Russia, Iran interested in construction new nuclear power plants in Iranian territory


http://tass.ru/en/economy/841084

The Latest: Climate researchers say nuclear power must be part of the answer to global warming

The Latest: Climate researchers say nuclear power must be part of the answer to global warming


http://www.newser.com/article/6326965eae844a62812e22564b06f4e7/the-latest-climate-researchers-say-nuclear-power-must-be-part-of-the-answer-to-global-warming.html

Russia, Iran interested in construction new nuclear power plants

Russia, Iran interested in construction new nuclear power plants

3 December 2015 TASS
"Russia and Iran continue discussing cooperation in providing technical services for the Bushehr NPP," an official said.

http://in.rbth.com/news/2015/12/03/rusia-iran-interested-in-construction-new-nuclear-power-plants_547069

ANS Nuclear Cafe Update: Paris Diary: Why Nuclear Needs to be Visible at COP21

Updates from ANS Nuclear Cafe Blog
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Paris Diary: Why Nuclear Needs to be Visible at COP21

By ansnuclearcafe on Dec 03, 2015 09:34 am

By Tari Marshall – reporting from Paris I’ve been asked an unsettling question a number of times since I’ve been at the COP21 meeting in Paris this week, and that Continue Reading →
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