Gulf expo could boost Mideast arms salesAbu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UPI) Feb 18, 2011 The Middle East's premier arms exhibition opens Sunday in Abu Dhabi amid forecasts that the region's
military spending is set to grow by 14 percent over five years. The biannual International Defense Exhibition and Conference, known as IDEX, is also being held Sunday-Thursday as oil prices have once more risen through the $100 level, driven in part by the regional pro-democracy turmoil that has reached the Arab producers of the Persian Gulf.
Escalating tensions between Iran on the one hand and the United States and Israel on the other have led to a major drive by the Arab states in the gulf, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, to acquire more advanced and powerful weapons systems.
High oil prices provide the gulf states with vast amounts of petrodollars to fund ambitious military procurement programs. Recent analyses predict that the gulf Arab monarchies will spend $122 billion on advanced combat jets, integrated missile defense systems, main battle tanks, attack helicopters and warships over the next decade or two.
The combination of the rising oil prices -- the current level is around $103 per barrel, the highest mark since September 2008 -- and growing concerns in the gulf that they, too, will be infected by the political turmoil sweeping the region is a heady mix.
Whether, as some industry analysts suggest, this will trigger further arms purchases isn't clear.
But with strategic arms procurement seemingly already in hand, any fresh spending is likely to be directed at strengthening internal security forces to counter any threat against the regimes in place.
However, this turmoil could be exploited by Tehran, as may be the case with the current unrest in Bahrain, the only Arab state in the six-member Gulf Cooperation Council alliance to have a Shiite majority.
IDEX officials say 1,060 companies will exhibit at the show in Abu Dhabi, the emirates' capital. That's a record since the expo was launched in 1993 and more than 100 higher than IDEX 2009.
This year's exhibitors include the Lockheed Martin Corp. of Maryland, the Boeing Co. of Chicago, France's Dassault Aviation, Finmeccanica of Italy which supplies warships to the gulf states, Germany's Rhinemetall AG, and Russia's state arms exporter Rosoboronexport, which notched sales of $10 billion in 2010.
The arms show will run simultaneously with a naval defense exhibition, NAVDEX 2011, with 81 companies participating. Warships from the emirates' navy, Britain, Italy and France will be on display.
Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire - Major Energy and Environmental News and Commentary affecting the Nuclear Industry. Nuclear Activities
Saturday, February 19, 2011
New missile 'ready by 2015'
New missile 'ready by 2015'
- Source: Global Times
Soldiers on Chinese missile frigate "Zhoushan" wave to see off China's sixth naval escort flotilla in the Gulf of Aden November 24, 2010. China's seventh naval escort flotilla began its escort mission on Wednesday. Photo：Xinhua
By Zhang Han and Huang Jingjing
Conversations with History - Avner Cohen
Conversations with History - Avner Cohen
VIDEO | Israel's Bargain with the Bomb
Conversations with History - Avner Cohen
Avner Cohen speaks with Harry Kreisler about his new book The Worst-Kept Secret: Israel's Bargain with the Bomb.
Avner Cohen speaks with Harry Kreisler about his new book The Worst-Kept Secret: Israel's Bargain with the Bomb.
International Law and the Threat of Force
International Law and the Threat of Force
All Members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations. – Charter of the United Nations, Article 2 Section 4Advances in the development of WMD programs in the international system have led to a number of recommendations for action among the global community. While the legal dimensions of the use of force have been widely discussed, the rules governing threat to use force have received comparably little attention, even though today, such threats are being made against Iran’s nuclear program. When weighing the options, what are the rules governing the threat to use force in the international system?
Experts in the field of international law, global security, and nonproliferation were assembled to discuss the legal and policy issues concerning the threat of force in the international system. Panelists included:
Dr. Catherine Lotrionte - Moderator
Associate Director, Institute for Law, Science, and Global Security
Georgetown University
Dr. Anthony Arend
Director, Master of Science in Foreign Service Program
Georgetown University
Mr. Orde Kittrie
Professor of Law, Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law
Arizona State University
Mr. Leonard Spector
Director, James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies Washington DC Office
Monterey Institute for International Studies
Partner, Mediator, Spoiler, or all Three? Examining Turkey's Role in U.S. Nonproliferation Priorities
Partner, Mediator, Spoiler, or all Three?
Examining Turkey's Role in U.S. Nonproliferation Priorities
A panel discussion held in Washington DC on January 26, 2011.
Under the leadership of the AKP government and its policy of "strategic depth," Turkey has taken an increasingly assertive role in regional and global politics. Ankara's good relations with Iran and other Middle Eastern states provide both challenges and opportunities to the United States. While Turkey continues to be a key strategic partner to the United States and NATO, its priorities concerning Iran, NATO decisions on missile defense, and the development of nuclear fuel cycle capabilities in the region do not alway align with those of the United States.The panelists examine both how Turkey's domestic politics are shaping its choices on these issues and how competing strategic interests constrain U.S. policy responses.
Where do opportunities exist for the United States to improve its partnership with Turkey on nonproliferation?
Panelists
- Jessica C. Varnum
- Leon Fuerth
- Dr. Stephen Larrabee
Watch the Discussion
EDF repairs reactors amid anomalies
. EDF repairs reactors amid anomalies
Paris (UPI) Feb 18, 2011 Electricite de France, the world's largest operator of nuclear power plants, is replacing backup diesel generators at eight nuclear reactor sites across France after anomalies were detected. EDF said it would replace the bearing bushings of the backup diesel generators at its Blayais, Bugey, Chinon, Cruas, Dampierre, Gravelines, Saint-Laurent power and Tricastin power stations following anomalies. The repairs can be conducted while the reactors are in operation, the company said in a statement.
Paris (UPI) Feb 18, 2011 Electricite de France, the world's largest operator of nuclear power plants, is replacing backup diesel generators at eight nuclear reactor sites across France after anomalies were detected. EDF said it would replace the bearing bushings of the backup diesel generators at its Blayais, Bugey, Chinon, Cruas, Dampierre, Gravelines, Saint-Laurent power and Tricastin power stations following anomalies. The repairs can be conducted while the reactors are in operation, the company said in a statement.
Lawrence Solomon: The next oil crisis
Lawrence Solomon: The next oil crisis
February 18, 2011 – 10:38 pm
AFP
The 1970s oil crisis may not remain an isolated historical episode.
By Lawrence Solomon
Friday, February 18, 2011
Strong Demand and New Markets Benefit Molybdenum
Strong Demand and New Markets Benefit Molybdenum
Molybdenum's main use is in high strength steel alloys. These alloys are used in numerous applications from large scale construction projects, the automotive sector and the energy sector. Molybdenum is irreplaceable due to its ability to reduce corrosion as well as its unique ability for high heat applications. These factors make molybdenum essential in energy projects around the world from nuclear power to renewable energy projects.
Report hints at problems with nuclear plant control rods at Monticello
Report hints at problems with nuclear plant control rods at Monticello
Utilities split over small nuclear reactor economics
Utilities split over small nuclear reactor economics
Washington (Platts)--18Feb2011/509 am EST/1009 GMT
Westinghouse Unveils New Small Modular Reactor Design (With video)
Westinghouse Unveils New Small Modular Reactor Design (With video)
China Prevents Release of U.N. Report on North Korea
China Prevents Release of U.N. Report on North Korea
Turkey, Jordan strengthen ties, sign nuclear agreement
Turkey, Jordan strengthen ties, sign nuclear agreement
Progress Energy Won’t Build New Reactors Before 2020
Progress Energy Won’t Build New Reactors Before 2020
Alstom to relocate nuclear part production: union
Alstom to relocate nuclear part production: union
Strasbourg, France (AFP) Feb 17, 2011 - French engineering giant Alstom is planning to relocate from France to Mexico production of a part used for nuclear power plants, a union source told AFP Thursday. Alstom plans to shut its plant in the eastern town of Belfort that manufactures blades used for nuclear turbines as part of an overall plan to shed some 4,000 jobs worldwide, French unions CGT, CFE-CGC and CFTC said. ... more
Strasbourg, France (AFP) Feb 17, 2011 - French engineering giant Alstom is planning to relocate from France to Mexico production of a part used for nuclear power plants, a union source told AFP Thursday. Alstom plans to shut its plant in the eastern town of Belfort that manufactures blades used for nuclear turbines as part of an overall plan to shed some 4,000 jobs worldwide, French unions CGT, CFE-CGC and CFTC said. ... more
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Overseas Investments by Chinese National Oil Companies
The International Energy Agency has done us all a service in this report, the full text of which can be accessed and downloaded at http://www.iea.org/papers/
NATURAL GAS FROM CRS
NATURAL GAS FROM CRS
New reports from the Congressional Research Service on natural gas and miscellaneous other topics include the following (all pdf).
"Implication's of Egypt's Turmoil on Global Oil and Natural Gas Supply," February 11, 2011.
"Israel's Offshore Natural Gas Discoveries Enhance Its Economic and Energy Outlook," January 31, 2011.
"Global Natural Gas: A Growing Resource," December 22, 2010.
National Grid Encouraged by FERC Power-Line Plan, U.S. Head Says
National Grid Encouraged by FERC Power-Line Plan, U.S. Head Says
Harvard: Coal adds 18 cents a kilowatt hour to your bill
Harvard: Coal adds 18 cents a kilowatt hour to your bill
Harvard Study: Coal costs US Public up to $500 Billion Annually
That's above the market price of coal fired electricity
That's above the market price of coal fired electricity
Aboard the Greenpeace ship Artic Sunrise in Boston Harbor this morning Paul Epstein of Harvard Medical School's Center for Health & Global Environment announced the findings of his new study on the life-cycle external costs of U.S. Appalacian mined coal. The chart on right os from the Harvard pamphlet about the report.
U.S. to expand civilian nuclear cooperation with Russia - official
U.S. to expand civilian nuclear cooperation with Russia - official
Related News
- Russia, U.S. to increase nuclear cooperation - Rosatom chief
- Nuclear cooperation deal to bring Russian technologies to U.S.
- Civilian nuclear deal enables U.S., Russia to 'develop nuclear reactors'
- Russia hopes Obama to resubmit Russian-U.S. nuclear cooperation agreement to Senate
- Russia poised to sign more uranium supply deals with U.S.
Legislature to consider resolutions pushing for support of Centrifuge
Legislature to consider resolutions pushing for support of Centrifuge
Commerce Report Calls For Incentives For Small Nuclear Reactors
Commerce Report Calls For Incentives For Small Nuclear Reactors
US to commit $50m to Ukraine’s nuclear security program
US to commit $50m to Ukraine’s nuclear security program
Thorium: the miracle cure for a new nuclear backbone?
Thorium: the miracle cure for a new nuclear backbone?
http://analysis.nuclearenergyinsider.com/industry-insight/thorium-miracle-cure-new-nuclear-backbone?utm_source=http%3a%2f%2fcommunicator.nuclearenergyinsider.com%2flz%2f&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=eBrief+nuclear+17+Feb+11&utm_term=Thorium%3a+the+miracle+cure+for+a+new+nuclear+backbone&utm_content=581808
Shell warns world energy demand will outpace supply
Shell warns world energy demand will outpace supply
Shell published Signals and Signposts – a report into future energy scenarios which offers a deeper understanding of global developments and the world’s energy supply, use and needs. They help us to make crucial choices in uncertain times as we grapple with tough energy and environmental issues.
Signals and Signposts -- updates our thinking by taking into account the impact of the global economic and financial crisis. Over the next four decades, the world’s energy system will see profound developments. Heightened collaboration between civil society and the public and private sectors is vital if we want to address economic, energy and environmental challenges. Partnerships must be grounded in commercial reality, but energy and environmental developments have to accelerate in the right direction. We must widen and deepen the debate across industry and geographical boundaries.
Syria still stonewalling UN nuclear probe: diplomats
Syria still stonewalling UN nuclear probe: diplomats
Hey Utah, China knows Weinberg was right about TMSR’s. No Water Needed!
Hey Utah, China knows Weinberg was right about TMSR’s. No Water Needed!
Interdependent Reactors Are the Fastest Route to 2020 Energy Independence says Kirk Sorensen
Interdependent Reactors Are the Fastest Route to 2020 Energy Independence says Kirk Sorensen
A Road Map for the Realization of Global-scale Thorium Breeding Fuel Cycle
A Road Map for the Realization of Global-scale Thorium Breeding Fuel Cycle This describes a 5-7 year doubling time for the Uranium 233 that is needed to start the molten salt thorium reactors.
by Single Molten-Fluoride Flow (28 pages, by Kazuo Furukawa*, Kazuto Arakawa, L.Berrin Erbay, Yasuhiko Ito, Yoshio Kato*, Hanna
Kiyavitskaya, Alfred Lecocq, Koshi Mitachi, Ralph Moir, Hiroo Numata, J. Paul Pleasant, Yuzuru Sato, Yoichiro Shimazu, Vadim A.Simonenco, Din Dayal Sood, Carlos Urban, Ritsuo Yoshioka 2007)
by Single Molten-Fluoride Flow (28 pages, by Kazuo Furukawa*, Kazuto Arakawa, L.Berrin Erbay, Yasuhiko Ito, Yoshio Kato*, Hanna
Kiyavitskaya, Alfred Lecocq, Koshi Mitachi, Ralph Moir, Hiroo Numata, J. Paul Pleasant, Yuzuru Sato, Yoichiro Shimazu, Vadim A.Simonenco, Din Dayal Sood, Carlos Urban, Ritsuo Yoshioka 2007)
The Thorium Molten-Salt Nuclear Energy Synergetic System [THORIMS-NES], described here is a symbiotic system, based on the Thorium-Uranium-233 cycle. The production of trans-uranium elements is essentially absent in Th-U system, giving nuclear proliferation resistance. The energy is produced in molten salt reactors (FUJI) and fissile 233U is produced by spallation in an Accelerator Molten-Salt Breeders (AMSB). This system uses the multifunctional “single-phase molten-fluoride” circulation system for all operations. There are no difficulties relating to “radiation-damage”, “heat-removal” and “chemical processing” owing to the simple “idealistic ionic liquid” character of the fuel. FUJI is size-flexible, and can use all kinds of fissile material achieving a nearly fuel self-sustaining condition without a continuous chemical processing of fuel salt and without core-graphite replacement for the life of the reactor. The AMSB is based on a single-fluid molten-salt target/blanket concept. Several AMSBs can be accommodated in regional centers for the production of fissile 233U, with batch chemical processing, including radio-waste management. FUJI reactor and the AMSB can also be used for the transmutation of long-lived radioactive elements in the wastes, and has a high potential for producing hydrogen-fuel in molten salt reactors. The development and launching of THORIMS-NES requires the following three programs during the next three decades: (A) pilot plant: miniFUJI (7-10 MWe): (B) small power reactor: FUJI-Pu (100-300MWe). (C) fissile producer: AMSB for globally deploying THORIMS-NES
Development of the micro-mini thorium molten-salt power plant 'miniFUJI'.
Development of the micro-mini thorium molten-salt power plant 'miniFUJI'.
Since smaller thorium molten-salt power plant is easier to construct, we will develop the 10,000kW micro-mini thorium molten-salt power plant 'miniFUJI' within five years. This micro-mini power plant is planned as a local power plant to meet the high need of power supply for servers in information industry and for the stations of charging electric vehicles.
Liquid Fluoride Thorium Reactors
Liquid Fluoride Thorium Reactors
An old idea in nuclear power gets reexamined
China enters race to develop nuclear energy from thorium
China enters race to develop nuclear energy from thorium
Scientists and private firms in China have embarked on a major new push to develop liquid-fluoride thorium reactor technology
• Video: Manchester Report - Thorium nuclear power
• Video: Manchester Report - Thorium nuclear power
China's Thorium Reactor and Japan's targets 10 MW thorium miniFuji for 2016
China's Thorium Reactor and Japan's targets 10 MW thorium miniFuji for 2016
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
How much oil does Saudi Arabia actually have?
How much oil does Saudi Arabia actually have?
Is it 260bn or 550bn barrels? Should we believe the Americans or the Saudis? The answer may lie in the provenance of the information
Seven Steps The US Can Take To Reclaim The Nuclear Power Initiative
Seven Steps The US Can Take To Reclaim The Nuclear Power Initiative
Intel Agencies Update Report on Iranian Nuclear Work
Intel Agencies Update Report on Iranian Nuclear Work
If greenhouse gas emissions stopped now, Earth still would likely get warmer
If greenhouse gas emissions stopped now, Earth still would likely get warmer
Attorney General George Jepsen Challenges Nuclear Regulatory Commission's Radioactive Waste Ruling
Attorney General George Jepsen Challenges Nuclear Regulatory Commission's Radioactive Waste Ruling
3 States Challenge Federal Policy on Storing Nuclear Waste By MATTHEW L. WALD
3 States Challenge Federal Policy on Storing Nuclear Waste
By MATTHEW L. WALD
NY, VT, Conn. suing NRC over nuclear waste storage
NY, VT, Conn. suing NRC over nuclear waste storage
Feds issue final study on uranium enrichment plant
Feds issue final study on uranium enrichment plant
Is a U.S. Nuclear Revival Finally Underway?
Is a U.S. Nuclear Revival Finally Underway?
Four new reactors are under construction in the U.S.--on time and on budget--today
Small Nuclear Reactors for Military Installations: Capabilities, Costs, and Technological Implications
Small Nuclear Reactors
for Military Installations:
Capabilities, Costs, and
Technological Implications
for Military Installations:
Capabilities, Costs, and
Technological Implications
Proposed DOE Budget Ends Funding for Yucca Mountain Waste Repository
Proposed DOE Budget Ends Funding for Yucca Mountain Waste Repository
UAE, S.Korea N-pact model for region’
UAE, S.Korea N-pact model for region’
SEOUL: Ambassador Hamad Al Kaabi, UAE Permanent Representative to the IAEA, has said that the UAE approach and contract with the Korean led consortium demonstrated the viability of a robust model for the introduction of nuclear energy programmes in the Gulf region.
A model that could serve as a viable approach for other GCC countries, which experience similar challenges and conditions as the UAE.
Speaking at “GCC Days” in Seoul, the UAE envoy said,” UAE partnership with the Korean nuclear industry has the potential to be expanded to support other GCC countries’ plans to develop new nuclear energy sectors in the region.”
“Nuclear energy is emerging in the GCC as a proven, reliable, commercially competitive option to meet aggressive energy demand growth in the future. The nuclear programme requires a set of capabilities and skills not readily availability in the GCC countries.”
SEOUL: Ambassador Hamad Al Kaabi, UAE Permanent Representative to the IAEA, has said that the UAE approach and contract with the Korean led consortium demonstrated the viability of a robust model for the introduction of nuclear energy programmes in the Gulf region.
A model that could serve as a viable approach for other GCC countries, which experience similar challenges and conditions as the UAE.
Speaking at “GCC Days” in Seoul, the UAE envoy said,” UAE partnership with the Korean nuclear industry has the potential to be expanded to support other GCC countries’ plans to develop new nuclear energy sectors in the region.”
“Nuclear energy is emerging in the GCC as a proven, reliable, commercially competitive option to meet aggressive energy demand growth in the future. The nuclear programme requires a set of capabilities and skills not readily availability in the GCC countries.”
New North Korean Space Launch Site Appears Completed from VOA News: Top Stories by Steve Herman
New North Korean Space Launch Site Appears Completed
from VOA News: Top StoriesNew satellite imagery seen by VOA News shows North Korea has completed a launch tower at its second missile launch facility, in the country’s northwest. Intelligence analysts in the United States and South Korea are keeping a close eye on the facility, near Tongchang-dong.
The site is seen as a critical element in Pyongyang's quest to build a missile capable of delivering a nuclear weapon across the Pacific.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Is Oil Output Peaking or Not? Either Way, Cheap Oil Is Gone for Good
Is Oil Output Peaking or Not? Either Way, Cheap Oil Is Gone for Good
See full article from DailyFinance: http://srph.it/g3FEYg
Reportlinker Adds New Build Nuclear Power Market - Opportunity Assessment, Technology Analysis and Regional Breakdown
Reportlinker Adds New Build Nuclear Power Market - Opportunity Assessment, Technology Analysis and Regional Breakdown
http://www.reportlinker.com/p0382675/New-Build-Nuclear-Power-Market---Opportunity-Assessment-Technology-Analysis-and-Regional-Breakdown.html
UPDATE 1-Syria mulls first nuclear power plant by 2020
UPDATE 1-Syria mulls first nuclear power plant by 2020
NY, VT, Conn. suing NRC over nuclear waste storage
NY, VT, Conn. suing NRC over nuclear waste storage
Super compact fusion reactor secures funding
Super compact fusion reactor secures funding
Tokamak Solutions works on neutron fusion reactorBritish firm Tokamak Solutions has received a round of funding in support of its development of a fusion reactor that will produce neutrons and process neutron byproducts. The fusion neutrons have uses in the medical isotope field. The Engineer (U.K.)
Obama Administration Seeks Additional $36 Billion For Nuclear Loan Guarantees
Obama Administration Seeks Additional $36 Billion For Nuclear Loan Guarantees
The Obama administration is requesting an additional $36 billion in nuclear loan guarantees in its budget plan for fiscal 2012, up from its budgeted $18.5 billion. The guarantees would make it easier for nuclear companies obtain credit. Nasdaq.com/Dow Jones Newswires
Obama budget could boost B&W reactor projects
Obama budget could boost B&W reactor projects
The Babcock & Wilcox Generation mPower Reactor could benefit from the Obama administration's proposed budget for fiscal 2012. The Department of Energy is requesting $67 million to help fund the development of small modular reactors. "Any time you can bring together this kind of a public-private funding arrangement, it really helps move technology like this forward a lot quicker and with a lot lower risk profile," said Rick Bonsall, vice president of business development for Generation mPower. The News & Advance (Lynchburg, Va.)
Mapping Asia’s Nuclear Future
Mapping Asia’s Nuclear Future
The New START has entered into force. It’s now time for Asian nations to step up and help tackle the nuclear threat, says Richard Weitz.Monday, February 14, 2011
A response to Peter Lang on Coal and Nuclear Costs
A response to Peter Lang on Coal and Nuclear Costs
In a discussion of Integral Fast Reactor costs on Brave New Climate, Australian Engineer Peter Lang, a frequent poster/commenter on Brave New Climate has posted a challenge to nuclear power supporters. Lang, who is a AGW skeptic, argues, argues,
If we cannot have nuclear cheaper than coal we should wait until we can. We should not embark on unilateral action to stop climate change. We should not impose a carbon price in Australia.
In response, I argued:
Both IFRs and MSRs are possible with 10 years, provided we are willing to leave out all the bells and whistles and go with existing and proven technology. The resulting reactors will not be breeders, and the number of IFRs (ARC-100) possible is likely to be limited, although the sky is the limit as far as the number of MSRs is concerned.
Is it possible to build these reactors cheaper than coal? There is not enough evidence for ARC-100 type reactors to even hazard a guess, but there is probable cause to believe that SMR MSRs can be produced in factories at a cost that is at least competitive with coal. How is that possible? MSRs can be built with very compact cores, and operate at one atmosphere pressure. That means that they require less material in core and building construction. Secondly MSRs do not require
explosive or flammable materials in their core, thus they also require fewer safety features. MSRs are simpler than LWRs and IFrs, and require fewer parts. MSRs can be air cooled and located entirely underground. Hence many factors which contribute to reactor expenses, cost significantly less with MSRs.
MSRs operate at higher thermal efficiency than either LWRs or IFRs, and greater efficiency plus compact core size are factors in lower reactor costs. MSRs are capable of performing multiple missions, and for some electrical generation missions including load following and electrical back up, lower cost materials can be substituted, for the more expensive materials required by base load MSR power plants.
MSRs are simpler and require fewer parts than IFRs and LWRs. MSRs can be rapidly built in large numbers in factories. Labor saving machines can be employed in factory based MSR construction. Factory workers employed in MSR construction require fewer skills that construction workers who build LWRs. Factory employed workers compute to work from their homes, while LWR construction workers live in temporary housing close to their work site. These factors raise LWR labor costs as well as labor cost associated with coal fired power plants.
In addition, traditional coal fired power have hidden social and environmental costs, including the environmental consequences of acid rain, and the health consequences of breathing polluted coal smoke. The cost of health care related too coal smoke caused illnesses, and the cost to agriculture caused by acid rain caused crop damage is added to the cost of coal generated electricity, that cost rises significantly, and the cost of pollution control equipment adds significantly to the cost of electrical generation from coal fired plants.
All of these considerations support the argument that MSRs are potentially cost competitive with coal fired power plants. This evidence, although not yet conclusive, is sufficiently strong to require further investigation.
21st Century Nuclear Challenges: 1 Mass Deployment, A. Coal Replacement
21st Century Nuclear Challenges: 1 Mass Deployment, A. Coal Replacement
21st Century Nuclear Challenges: 1 Mass Deployment, A. Coal Replacement
Pakistan doubles its nuclear arsenal: Is it time to start worrying?
Pakistan doubles its nuclear arsenal: Is it time to start worrying?
Dutch government supports nuclear project
Dutch government supports nuclear project
One of the two companies seeking to construct a reactor in the Netherlands could secure a final license by 2015, provided it meets safety requirements and can function without federal financial support, Economics Minister Maxim Verhagen said. Energy Resources Holding and Delta are vying for the license
One of the two companies seeking to construct a reactor in the Netherlands could secure a final license by 2015, provided it meets safety requirements and can function without federal financial support, Economics Minister Maxim Verhagen said. Energy Resources Holding and Delta are vying for the license
Republicans seek release of Yucca Mountain report
NRC is urged to release safety report on Yucca Mountain project
Republican lawmakers in the House of Representatives are urging the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to circulate, by Feb. 24, a safety-evaluation report on the Yucca Mountain nuclear-waste repository. In response, NRC Chairman Gregory Jaczko said "the bulk of the information will be made public," but "will take some degree of time." Las Vegas Review-Journal/The Political Eye blog
Republican lawmakers in the House of Representatives are urging the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to circulate, by Feb. 24, a safety-evaluation report on the Yucca Mountain nuclear-waste repository. In response, NRC Chairman Gregory Jaczko said "the bulk of the information will be made public," but "will take some degree of time." Las Vegas Review-Journal/The Political Eye blog
Chu: U.S. needs to consider other options for nuclear waste
US must move past Yucca dump for nuke waste-Chu
CR would slash EPA, White House energy office Read more: http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0211/49383.html#ixzz1DyTccGd7
Republicans' spending bill targets White House, EPA's climate rules
The continuing-resolution bill proposed by House Republicans on Friday seeks to end funding for the White House energy adviser's office and cut the Environmental Protection Agency's budget by $3 billion. The bill also contains provisions that would block the EPA's mandate to regulate greenhouse-gas emissions and prevent the Nuclear Regulatory Commission from abandoning licensing studies for the Yucca Mountain waste-storage project in Nevada. The Politico (Washington, D.C.) (2/11),
The continuing-resolution bill proposed by House Republicans on Friday seeks to end funding for the White House energy adviser's office and cut the Environmental Protection Agency's budget by $3 billion. The bill also contains provisions that would block the EPA's mandate to regulate greenhouse-gas emissions and prevent the Nuclear Regulatory Commission from abandoning licensing studies for the Yucca Mountain waste-storage project in Nevada. The Politico (Washington, D.C.) (2/11),
House GOP spending bill prohibits funding for EPA climate regs
The Hill/E2 Wire blog (2/11),GOP won't shut down government to block EPA climate rules
The Hill/E2 Wire blogURS secures services deal for Idaho nuclear project
Areva Enrichment Services has given URS a contract to supply procurement, construction and management services for the Eagle Rock Enrichment Facility. The Idaho plant, which aims to supply low-enriched uranium for commercial nuclear facilities, has also secured a $2 billion conditional federal loan-guarantee commitment.
Small-reactor development to be included in Obama budget plan
Small-reactor development to be included in Obama budget plan
The Obama administration's budget plan for 2012 will include a funding request for the design of small "modular" reactors, several people involved with the proposal say. The Department of Energy is seeking $500 million over five years, which is half of the projected cost to complete two reactor designs and gain clearance from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
The Obama administration's budget plan for 2012 will include a funding request for the design of small "modular" reactors, several people involved with the proposal say. The Department of Energy is seeking $500 million over five years, which is half of the projected cost to complete two reactor designs and gain clearance from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
IAEA's Amano: Iran still steadily producing uranium
Lally WeymouthIAEA's Amano: Iran still steadily producing uraniumLally Weymouth interviews the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
President’s Energy Budget Invests in Innovation, Clean Energy, and National Security Priorities
THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Office of Public Affairs
For Immediate Release: Monday, February 14, 2011
President’s Energy Budget Invests in Innovation, Clean Energy, and National Security Priorities
DOE also making tough budget choices and instituting
management reform efforts to save taxpayer money
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu today detailed President Barack Obama’s $29.5 billion Fiscal Year 2012 budget request for the Department of Energy, emphasizing that it is part of an Administration-wide plan to win the future by out-innovating, out-educating and out-building the rest of the world. At the same time, the FY 2012 makes tough choices, cutting programs and expenses to underscore the Administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and shared sacrifice.
“The United States faces a choice today: will we lead in innovation and out-compete the rest of the world or will we fall behind? To lead the world in clean energy, we must act now. We can’t afford not to. Through our investments, we are laying the groundwork for the nation’s future prosperity and security,” said Secretary Chu. “While we are investing in areas that are critical to our future, we are also rooting out programs that aren’t needed and making hard choices to tighten our belt. Additionally, we are improving our management and operations so we function more efficiently and effectively.”
Specifically the President’s FY 2012 budget request for the Department of Energy:
• Puts the nation on the path to reach a bold but achievable goal of generating 80 percent of America’s electricity from clean sources by 2035 as called for by the President.
• Supports groundbreaking basic science, research and innovation to solve our energy challenges and ensure that the United States remains at the forefront of science and technology.
• Leads in the development and deployment of clean and efficient energy technologies to reduce our dependence on oil, accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy and promote economic competitiveness; and
• Strengthens national security by reducing nuclear dangers, maintaining a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent and cleaning up our Cold War nuclear legacy.
• Advances responsible environmental management by cleaning up hazardous, radioactive legacy waste from the Manhattan Project and the Cold War.
Some highlights in the FY 2012 budget include:
· Promoting renewable energy and energy efficient projects with $300 million in credit subsidies to support approximately $3-4 billion in projects.
· $36 billion in loan guarantee authority to help jumpstart the domestic nuclear industry, as well as additional investments in the research and development of advanced nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors. Combined with existing authority, the additional loan guarantee authority will support 6 to 8 nuclear power projects, which will result in the construction of anywhere from 9 to 13 new reactors.
· To spur innovation, the President’s budget request invests in basic and applied research and keeps us on the path to doubling funding for key science agencies, including the Department’s Office of Science.
· $5.4 billion for the Office of Science to expand our investment in basic energy sciences, advanced scientific computing and biological and environmental sciences – all key areas for our future economic competitiveness.
· $550 million for the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) to continue support for the promising early-stage research projects that could deliver game-changing clean energy technologies.
· $146 million to support the three existing Energy Innovation Hubs and to establish three new Hubs in the areas of batteries and energy storage; smart grid technologies and systems; and critical materials. Through the Hubs, we are bringing together our nation’s top scientists and engineers to work over a longer time frame to achieve a specific goal.
· $100 million to continue supporting 46 Energy Frontier Research Centers started in 2009.
· A five-year FY 12 to FY 16 request of nearly $65 billion for the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) reflects the President’s nuclear security priorities, as well as his commitment to modernize the U.S. nuclear weapons enterprise and sustain a strong nuclear deterrent for the duration of the New START Treaty and beyond.
· To support the President’s goal of securing all vulnerable nuclear material around the world in four years, the budget invests $2.5 billion in the NNSA Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation program. This is part of a five-year, $14.2 billion commitment for the program.
In developing this budget, several program reductions and terminations are proposed, further demonstrating the Obama Administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility. The Department also continues to make progress on a management excellence agenda to improve our operations.
They include:
· In January, DOE decided that it would end operation of the Tevatron, at the Fermi National Laboratory, rather than extend them through FY 2014. It is projected this decision will save the Department $35 million for FY 2012.
· DOE has reduced the budget for the Fossil Energy Office by 45 percent, or $418 million. This includes zeroing out the Fuels Program, the Fuel Cells Program, the Oil and Gas Research and Development Program, and the Unconventional Fossil Technology Program.
· The proposal to repeal a number of subsidies and tax preferences available for fossil fuels. Repeal of these subsidies and preferences will save the taxpayer approximately $3.6 billion in FY 2012.
· The Department is reducing administrative expenses across all programs in the FY 2012 budget from FY 2010 levels.
In the FY 12 budget request, the Department was able to reduce the cost of its corporate management by nearly 13 percent, cutting nearly $45 million from its budget. Some of these spending reductions came from:
· Office of the Chief Financial Officer: 16 percent reduction;
· Office of the Chief Information Officer: 17 percent reduction ;
· Office of Human Capital Management: 22 percent reduction;
· Office of Public Affairs: 16 percent reduction
For more information about the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2012 budget proposal for the Department of Energy, please visit www.energy.gov.
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