Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Saturday, December 7, 2013

Fukushima Nuclear Crisis Update for December 3rd to December 5th, 2013

Fukushima Nuclear Crisis Update for December 3rd to December 5th, 2013


http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/news/Blogs/nuclear-reaction/fukushima-nuclear-crisis-update-for-december-/blog/47626/

The future of nuclear power: Let a thousand flowers bloom

The future of nuclear power: Let a thousand flowers bloom Scientific American (blog)
And there was Edward Teller, another Manhattan Project veteran; a dark, volatile and brilliant physicist who would become so convinced of the power of nuclear ...http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/the-curious-wavefunction/2013/12/06/the-future-of-nuclear-power-let-a-thousand-flowers-bloom/

SolarCity Launches Energy Storage for Business Using Tesla Battery Packs

SolarCity Launches Energy Storage for Business Using Tesla Battery Packs


http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/SolarCity-Launches-Energy-Storage-for-Businesses-Using-Tesla-Battery-Packs?goback=.gde_67258_member_5814759871270109188#!

90 companies found responsible for 63% of GHG emissions since 1751.

90 companies found responsible for 63% of GHG emissions since 1751.

Principal Author at 21st Century Tech Blog
83 are energy companies. Half of the emissions occurred in the last 25 years correlating with atmospheric warming and increased catastrophic weather events.

Three US Markets Prepared for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Success

Three US Markets Prepared for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Success


In GTM Research's recent report, Grid-Scale Energy Storage in North America 2013: Applications, Technologies and Suppliers, they identify the most promising geographic markets and segments for storage. The following report excerpt identifies California, Texas, and Hawaii/Puerto Rico as the markets that are ready for success.

Read the full article here: http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/A-Trio-of-US-Markets-Ready-for-Grid-Scale-Energy-Storage-Success
In GTM Research's recent report, Grid-Scale Energy Storage in North America 2013: Applications, Technologies and Suppliers, we identify the most promising geographic markets and segments for storage. The following report excerpt identifies three...

A Successful Blog


400K Pageviews at Yes Vermont Yankee Blog

W

A Successful Blog

Yesterday afternoon, I took this screen shot of the page-views on Yes Vermont Yankee blog.  It's from the blogger "Stats" page. Clearly the time-line is not right, because the blog began in January 2010. Still, I think the page-count is accurate.  For example, the big blip shown in "April 2009" is certainly the giant readership of the 25th Carnival of Nuclear Energy blogs in October 2010.  That post was featured in Instapundit and other venues.

I'm proud of the record of this blog. The blog has followed the story of Vermont Yankee and put that story in perspective. The issues in Vermont are a reflection (exaggeration?) of the type of opposition faced by nuclear plants world-wide.  In my opinion, knowing the specifics of a single example illuminates the "big picture" of nuclear.http://yesvy.blogspot.com/2013/12/400k-pageviews-at-yes-vermont-yankee.html#.UqNSqChfWec

A very worthwhile blog!

A Brave New World Powered by Distributed Energy

A Brave New World Powered by Distributed Energy


http://breakingenergy.com/2013/12/06/a-brave-new-world-powered-by-distributed-energy/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=9dadd09b7a-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-9dadd09b7a-407304281

Generation, Smart Grid, Transmission The Smart Grid 2014 and Beyond: A New Grid Model

The Smart Grid 2014 and Beyond: A New Grid Model


http://breakingenergy.com/2013/12/06/the-smart-grid-2014-and-beyond-a-new-grid-model/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=9dadd09b7a-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-9dadd09b7a-407304281

Beyond Tesla and Edison: Other Luminaries from the Age of Electricity

 

Beyond Tesla and Edison: Other Luminaries from the Age of Electricity

http://breakingenergy.com/2013/12/06/beyond-tesla-and-edison-other-luminaries-from-the-age-of-electricity/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=9dadd09b7a-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-9dadd09b7a-407304281

The NRC and Nuclear Terrorism: Still Out of Step on the Insider Threat


The NRC and Nuclear Terrorism: Still Out of Step on the Insider Threat

http://allthingsnuclear.org/the-nrc-and-nuclear-terrorism-still-out-of-step-on-the-insider-threat/

Japan, South Korea and China Agree on Nuclear Safety Network Despite Regional Tensions, Countries Vow to Cooperate in Event of Emergency

Japan, South Korea and China Agree on Nuclear Safety Network

Despite Regional Tensions, Countries Vow to Cooperate in Event of Emergency


http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303497804579237423810359150

Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station

Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station

http://www.entergy-nuclear.com/plant_information/pilgrim.aspx 

 

Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station Make A Positive Economic Impact

 http://www.pilgrimpower.com/community_planning/our-community.html

Friday, December 6, 2013

Fairewinds’ Gundersen Guarantees Problems with Unit 4 Spent Fuel Removal



 
Fairewinds’ Gundersen Guarantees Problems with Unit 4 Spent Fuel Removal
Arnie Gundersen says the transfer of F. Daiichi unit #4's spent fuel is doomed to failure. He assures the viewers of his video that the fuel bundles are so brittle that some will surely "snap" and release huge amounts of airborne radioactivity. His arguments are confabulated and steeped in appeals to Fukushima myths.
 
 

“Fukushima, after a thousand days: radiation-related deaths still equal the number of vampires walking the earth”


Post title: “Fukushima, after a thousand days: radiation-related deaths still equal the number of vampires walking the earth”

Post blurb: “What do vampires have in common with radiation-related fatalities from the Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan? Both are all over the pop culture and media. And neither exists.”


Radioactive Fukushima Water Headed for US West Coast

Radioactive Fukushima Water Headed for US West Coast
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2013/12/06-6

Worst-Case Scenario for Oil Sands Industry Has Come to Life, Leaked Document Shows

Worst-Case Scenario for Oil Sands Industry Has Come to Life, Leaked Document Shows
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2013/12/06-3

IAEA Team Urges Tepco To Consider Radioactive Water Release Into Sea


IAEA Team Urges Tepco To Consider Radioactive Water Release Into Sea


http://www.nucnet.org/all-the-news/2013/12/06/iaea-team-urges-tepco-to-consider-radioactive-water-release-into-sea

INTERVIEW/ Allison Macfarlane: Waste disposal plan key to nuclear power option, says NRC chief in U.S.


INTERVIEW/ Allison Macfarlane: Waste disposal plan key to nuclear power option, says NRC chief in U.S.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/views/opinion/AJ201312050014

Rapid climate changes, but with a 120 year time lag

Rapid climate changes, but with a 120 year time lag
Potsdam, Germany (SPX) Dec 06, 2013 - Regional climate changes can be very rapid. A German-British team of geoscientists now reports that such a rapid climate change occurred in different regions with a time difference of 120 years. Investigation in the west German Eifel region and in southern Norway demonstrated that at the end of the last glaciation about 12,240 years before present climate became warmer, first recognised in ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Rapid_climate_changes_but_with_a_120_year_time_lag_999.html

Continuing with pledge pathways to 2030 could push climate goals out of reach

Continuing with pledge pathways to 2030 could push climate goals out of reach
Vienna, Austria (SPX) Dec 06, 2013 - Current pledges for greenhouse gas emission reductions are inadequate and will further increase the challenge to reach internationally agreed climate targets, according to new research from a global consortium of 13 international research teams coordinated by the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) and the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impacts Research (PIK). In th ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Continuing_with_pledge_pathways_to_2030_could_push_climate_goals_out_of_reach_999.html

Sea-level rise to drive coastal flooding, regardless of changes in hurricane activity

Sea-level rise to drive coastal flooding, regardless of changes in hurricane activity
Blacksburg VA (SPX) Dec 06, 2013 - Clamor about whether climate change will cause increasingly destructive tropical storms may be overshadowing a more unrelenting threat to coastal property - sea-level rise - according to a team of researchers writing in the journal Nature this week. After reviewing nearly 100 research studies, the scientists say accelerated sea-level rise certainly will increase the flooding and property d ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Sea_level_rise_to_drive_coastal_flooding_regardless_of_changes_in_hurricane_activity_999.html

Earth's crust beneath oceans could store centuries' output of CO2

Earth's crust beneath oceans could store centuries' output of CO2 by Staff Writers Southampton, England (UPI) Dec 4, 2013


disclaimer: image is for illustration purposes only
The Earth's crust beneath its oceans could store many centuries' worth of industrial CO2, keeping it out of a warming atmosphere, British researchers say.

http://www.terradaily.com/reports/Earths_crust_beneath_oceans_could_store_centuries_output_of_CO2_999.html

PennEnergy Research Papers: Emergency & Standby Power Generation Electricity Costs and Economics Report

Emergency & Standby Power Generation
Electricity Costs and Economics Report
Summary
The power sector still remains an attractive area for investment but investors are now more cautious than previously. Global warming continues to be a dominant theme but alongside that there is a new pragmatism about fossil fuel combustion which will continue to dominate the power sector for another generation at least. Meanwhile renewable sources of generation continue to advance, led principally by wind power but with solar capacity growing rapidly too, though from a small base.

Electricity is the most important energy source in the modern age but also the most ephemeral, a source that must be consumed as fast as it is produced. This makes modeling the economics of electricity production more complex than carrying out the same exercise for other products. Accurate modeling is important because it forms the basis for future investment decisions. In the electricity sector two fundamental yardsticks are used for cost comparison, capital cost and the levelized cost of electricity. The latter is a lifecycle cost analysis of a power plant that uses assumptions about the future value of money to convert all future costs and revenues into current prices. This model is widely used in the power industry but has some significant failings, particularly in its ability to handle risk. Even so these two measures, together, are the first consulted when power sector investment and planning decisions are to be made.

Production of electricity has always involved an element of risk but this has been extended, and in some cases magnified by the introduction of liberalized electricity markets. One big source of risk is fuel price risk. If an investment is made today based on a predicted cost of natural gas that turns out to be wildly in error because prices soar, as has happened during the past decade, then that investment will be in danger of failing to be economical to operate. Therefore some measure of the risk of fuel price volatility should be included in any economic model. Other risks arise where large capital investment is required in untested technology. Meanwhile the liberalized market has introduced new types of risk more often associated with financial markets.

Scope
  • Analysis of power generation costs concepts, drivers and components
  • Assessment of electricity costs for different technologies in terms of the two fundamental yardsticks used for cost comparison, capital cost and the levelized cost of electricity
  • Insight relating to the most innovative technologies and potential areas of opportunity for manufacturers
  • Examination of the key power generation technologies costs
  • Identification of the key trends shaping the market, as well as an evaluation of emerging trends that will drive innovation moving forward
More Info Buy It Now

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Market - Global Market Size, Average Pricing, Market Share and Distribution Channel Analysis to 2020
Summary
This report gives detailed information on the global Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) market, both by product type and technology. Revenue breakdown by product type, technology and pricing analysis are provided both at the country and regional level. Distribution channel analysis and regulations along with market share analysis are provided. Similar information is provided at country level also. Drivers, restraints, challenges and revenue forecast for the global and regional (North America, Asia Pacific and Europe) UPS market are also discussed. The report also covers top manufacturers and gives comparative analysis on the basis of product, global presence, mergers and acquisitions and so on.

Scope
  • Data on the revenue generated from both static and rotary UPS globally and also for the leading countries of the world
  • Data on the revenue generated for key voltage ratings, globally and also for the leading countries of the world like the US, India, China, Australia, Germany, Italy, France and the UK
  • Policy and regulatory framework governing the market
  • Detailed analysis of top market participants, including market share analysis
  • Data sourced from proprietary databases and primary interviews with key participants across the value chain
More Info Buy It Now

Power Generators Investing in the Optimization of Maintenance Services to Improve Plant Economics
Summary
The combination of aging infrastructure and the increasing numbers of new plants being brought online to meet the growing demand for power are pushing power generators to invest in the optimization of maintenance services. In order to ensure the smooth running of all the equipment in a power plant without any component failures and improve overall plant efficiency, reliability and availability, the maintenance of such equipment is essential. A lack of familiarity with new technologies and other conditions present in the key countries are also driving the global maintenance services market.

Scope
  • Market prospects of power plant maintenance services with growing competitiveness in the power generation industry
  • Focus on Maximum Utilization of the Existing Infrastructure driving investments in power plant maintenance
  • Impact of fluctuating fuel prices leading to efficiency improvements of existing plant infrastructure
  • Future market opportunity for power plant maintenance services due to ageing power plants and growing demand of electricity globally
More Info Buy It Now
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Nuclear Energy's Economic Benefits: Current and Future


Nuclear Energy's Economic Benefits: Current and Future
The nuclear energy industry can play an important role in job creation and economic growth, providing both near-term and lasting employment and economic benefits. The 100 nuclear units in the U.S. generate substantial domestic economic value in electricity sales and revenue - $40-$50 billion each year - with over 100,000 workers contributing to production.
http://www.nei.org/Master-Document-Folder/Backgrounders/White-Papers/Nuclear-Energy-s-Economic-Benefits-Current-and-Fut

Panel: Nuclear to remain key Japan energy source


Panel: Nuclear to remain key Japan energy source

http://www.boston.com/news/world/asia/2013/12/06/top-nuke-regulator-urges-back-end-effort/AS7XynZ6ZN3C3JQtmmYdmO/story.html

Large Companies Prepared to Pay Price on Carbon

 

Large Companies Prepared to Pay Price on Carbon

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/12/05/business/energy-environment/large-companies-prepared-to-pay-price-on-carbon.html?_r=1&

SMR Installed Capacity Could Be 40 GW By 2030, Says Russia

 

SMR Installed Capacity Could Be 40 GW By 2030, Says Russia

http://www.nucnet.org/all-the-news/2013/12/05/smr-installed-capacity-could-be-40-gw-by-2030-says-russia

Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited takes possession of 28 acres in Gorakhpur


Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited takes possession of 28 acres in Gorakhpur

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chandigarh/Nuclear-Power-Corporation-of-India-Limited-takes-possession-of-28-acres-in-Gorakhpur/articleshow/26926630.cms

Top US nuclear regulator urges storage solution


Top US nuclear regulator urges storage solution

http://fuelfix.com/blog/2013/12/06/top-us-nuclear-regulator-urges-storage-solution/

Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant Weekly Review

Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant Weekly Review


http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2013/12/06/fukushima-daiichi-nuclear-plant-weekly-review-120602.aspx#.UqI--xmEPgo

Fukushima Radiation to Reach U.S. Coast at Safe Levels, NRC Says


Fukushima Radiation to Reach U.S. Coast at Safe Levels, NRC Says Bloomberg
Water exposed to radiation from Japan's wrecked Fukushima atomic plant will reach the U.S. at safe levels, the chairwoman of U.S. Nuclear Regulatory ...http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-12-06/fukushima-radiation-to-reach-u-s-coast-at-safe-levels-nrc-says.html


Japan's Nuclear Disaster Doesn't Threaten US, Official Says

National Journal -
The top U.S. nuclear-safety official said that the West Coast isn't at risk from radioactive water linked to Japan's wrecked Fukushima Daiichi nuclear-power plant, Bloomberg reports. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Chairwoman Allison Macfarlane said in ...http://www.nationaljournal.com/energy/japan-s-nuclear-disaster-doesn-t-threaten-us-official-says-20131206
 

Fukushima radiation won't harm US, official says

The Hill (blog)
Bloomberg reports contaminated water from Japan's Fukushima nuclear power plant will the reach the U.S. at safe levels, a US official said. ADVERTISEMENT. "The highest amount of radiation that will reach the U.S. is two orders of magnitude -- 100 times ...http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/192284-fukushima-radiation-wont-harm-us-official-says
 

Charli cleans up at Creys-Malville

Charli cleans up at Creys-Malville
A laser-toting robot called Charli has been deployed inside the reactor vessel of the Superphénix fast neutron reactor to carry out pipe-cutting operations in a world first for reactor decommissioning.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/C-Charli-cleans-up-at-Creys-Malville-0612137.html

Review of EU nuclear safeguards procedures

Review of EU nuclear safeguards procedures
The European Commission is to review its procedures for ensuring nuclear materials in the European Union are not diverted from peaceful to military uses.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-Review-of-EU-nuclear-safeguards-procedures-0612135a.html

ANS Nuclear Cafe "Past, Present, and Promise 3: Return to the NS Savannah"

ANS Nuclear Cafe
 
"Past, Present, and Promise 3: Return to the NS Savannah"
 
Will Davis completes a three-part series of reflections stretching back twenty years by catching up with the historic ship NS Savannah, the first nuclear powered commercial ship ever placed in service.  A broad photo essay of a thorough tour of the ship, showpiece of President Eisenhower's "Atoms for Peace" program, is accompanied by technical details from Davis' collection of original materials.  Photos for this piece were taken both by Davis and by Paul Bowersox of ANS HQ Staff who accompanied Davis and about 30 other ANS members on an unforgettable tour during the ANS 2013 Winter Meeting.
 

SAFSTOR: On Decommissioning Vermont Yankee


SAFSTOR: On Decommissioning Vermont Yankee


Vermont Yankee will use SAFSTOR for about ten years. SAFSTOR is legal according to the NRC, and according to the agreement with which Entergy purchased the plant.  Plus---architecture is destiny. Entergy can't easily take the plant apart while the fuel pool continues to operate in the same building.  This is one of a series of posts on decommissioning.

Fukushima Update 12/6

Fukushima Commentary for today –
 
Japan’s Nuke Watchdog Wastes Time on New Nuclear Accident Scenario
This past Monday, Japan’s Nuclear Regulation Authority announced a new worst-case nuclear accident scenario. But, this one does not concern nuclear power plants. It purports a disaster at the Tokai nuclear fuel reprocessing facility. I think the NRA has wasted their time and needs to reconsider their priorities.  
http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.com/fukushima-commentary.html

OMB Issues Call for Additional Public Comments on the Social Cost of Carbon

OMB Issues Call for Additional Public Comments on the Social Cost of Carbon


http://theenergycollective.com/nrdcswitchboard/311466/omb-issues-call-additional-public-comments-social-cost-carbon?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The+Energy+Collective+%28all+posts%29

The real danger of loose nuclear materials is accidents, not dirty bombs


The real danger of loose nuclear materials is accidents, not dirty bombs

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2013/12/05/the-real-danger-of-loose-nuclear-materials-is-accidents-not-dirty-bombs/

Video: Spent Fuel Removal at Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant

Video: Spent Fuel Removal at Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant


http://spectrum.ieee.org/tech-talk/energy/nuclear/video-spent-fuel-removal-at-fukushima-daiichi-nuclear-power-plant

Inside Fukushima: Decommissioning Tepco's stricken nuclear reactor

Inside Fukushima: Decommissioning Tepco's stricken nuclear reactor


http://www.cnn.com/2013/12/04/world/asia/japan-fukushima-tepco-coren/

When Lockheed Martin Goes Green, It’s Game Over For Fossil Fuels

 When Lockheed Martin Goes Green, It’s Game Over For Fossil Fuels
When Lockheed Martin Goes Green, It’s Game Over For Fossil Fuels
Read more at http://cleantechnica.com/2013/12/05/lockheed-martin-goes-green-game-fossil-fuels/#C42IuQVlAithypQX.99
http://cleantechnica.com/2013/12/05/lockheed-martin-goes-green-game-fossil-fuels/?utm_source=Cleantechnica+News&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ee53c6efa9-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_term=0_b9b83ee7eb-ee53c6efa9-331974829

PennEnergy's Top Oil & Gas News 12/6

Top Oil & Gas News
Shell floats hull for world’s largest floating liquefied natural gas facility
Once complete, Prelude FLNG will be the largest floating facility ever built. It will unlock new energy resources offshore and produce approximately 3.6 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas per annum to meet growing demand.
Full Article

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PennEnergy Video News Update
From Hess' Indonesian asset sale, to broken production records in Texas, to LNG jobs in Queensland, all of the week's biggest headlines are in the PennEnergy Video News Update.
Full Article

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This Week's Most Popular Oil & Gas News
Russian natural gas supply to Italy grows by 76 percent in 2013
APPEA: Almost 30,000 people now working in Queensland’s natural gas industry
Hess announces sale of Indonesian exploration and production assets
Texas oil production rate breaks record in September
Oil and gas property regulation examined in new PwC webcast
Petrobras releases clarification on pre-salt layer production
Noble Energy announces new offshore oil discoveries
Pacific NorthWest LNG to utilize BASF natural gas technology
Roll-Royce wins natural gas equipment contract with PetroChina
Vectren Corporation to upgrade more than 1,000 miles of gas pipeline
Statoil recommends Mongstad for Johan Sverdrup oil field export
CB&I announces contract for U.S. ethylene plant
Axalta Nap-Gard achieves new depths for oil pipelines

Energy Insights
Governing Energy: A Jury of Your Peers
During the first week of December 2013, the criminal trial starts for a former BP engineer accused of destroying evidence during the probe of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon incident. Sometime in the future we will know its outcome and what if any punishment this individual will face. Moreover, this trial is billed as the “first” which suggest others may follow.
Full Article

Energy Storage Roundup: Ontario and California, Imergy, Stem, Hitachi

 

Energy Storage Roundup: Ontario and California, Imergy, Stem, Hitachi

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2013/12/energy-storage-roundup-ontario-and-california-imergy-stem-hitachi?cmpid=WNL-Friday-December6-2013

US Government Recommits to Renewable Energy Ramp-up


US Government Recommits to Renewable Energy Ramp-up


http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2013/12/us-government-recommits-to-renewable-energy-ramp-up?cmpid=WNL-Friday-December6-2013

DOE in Talks with GLE, AREVA for Depleted Uranium Hexafluoride

DOE in Talks with GLE, AREVA for Depleted Uranium Hexafluoride


http://www.powermag.com/doe-in-talks-with-gle-areva-for-depleted-uranium-hexafluoride/?hq_e=el&hq_m=2796072&hq_l=13&hq_v=30108e0773

Major Milestone Achieved at Concentrated Solar Plant


Major Milestone Achieved at Concentrated Solar Plant

http://www.powermag.com/major-milestone-achieved-at-concentrated-solar-plant/?hq_e=el&hq_m=2796072&hq_l=11&hq_v=30108e0773

EPA Releases Draft Strategy Plan For Next Four Years


EPA Releases Draft Strategy Plan For Next Four Years

http://www.powermag.com/epa-releases-draft-strategy-plan-for-next-four-years/?hq_e=el&hq_m=2796072&hq_l=10&hq_v=30108e0773

FERC Revises Small Generator Rules to Include Energy Storage 12/05/2013 | Sonal Patel


FERC Revises Small Generator Rules to Include Energy Storage

http://www.powermag.com/ferc-revises-small-generator-rules-to-include-energy-storage/?hq_e=el&hq_m=2796072&hq_l=8&hq_v=30108e0773

SolarCity, Using Tesla Batteries, Aims to Bring Solar Power to the Masses

SolarCity, Using Tesla Batteries, Aims to Bring Solar Power to the Masses

SolarCity’s new battery system might help solar become a significant source of electricity.

http://www.technologyreview.com/news/522226/solarcity-using-tesla-batteries-aims-to-bring-solar-power-to-the-masses/?utm_campaign=newsletters&utm_source=newsletter-daily-all&utm_medium=email&utm_content=20131206

Top Stories from Power Engineering 12/6

Top Stories
Report: Gas-fired, coal generation falls while nuclear rises in November
Total power demand was up a percent from November 2012.
Read More

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Duke renames Cliffside Steam Station after former CEO Jim Rogers
Duke Energy has renamed its Cliffside Steam Station in North Carolina the James E. Rogers Energy Complex after former CEO Jim Rogers.
Read More

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Fort Calhoun nuclear power plant ready to restart, OPPD says
OPPD said in a filing with the NRC that the 482 MW Fort Calhoun nuclear power plant in Nebraska is ready to restart
Read More

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Calpine to buy natural gas-fired power plant for $625M
Calpine Corp. has agreed to purchase a 1,050 MW combined-cycle power plant in Texas for $625 million, or $595 per kilowatt.
Read More

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In Case You Missed It
Report: Coal plant retirements likely to impact wholesale electricity prices
Ontario to defer new Darlington nuclear reactors
NFL, PSEG to provide green energy for Super Bowl XLVIII
ReneSola, SunEnergy1: 63MW in projects for North Carolina by end of 2013
Largest rooftop solar power project in Virginia in the works
Ameren completes sale of merchant generation business
Flabeg will not reopen PA solar mirror plant
Northwestern Energy purchases natural gas assets in Montana
Markets invest $274.9B in smart grid to improve reliability incorporate renewables and reduce electricity theft
Idaho Power receives approvals for emissions upgrades at Wyo. coal-fired plant
Robot helps decommission fast neutron reactor in France
FirstEnergy subsidiaries to purchase solar PV alternative energy credits with help from Brattle
SolarReserve opens office in Australia
Hawaii contracts with Ameresco for efficiency renewable power for sustainability commitment
SPX sells stake in joint venture for $571M
Xcel makes plans to create transmission company
Capital Power, Enmax to build natural gas-fired power plant in Canada

Japan's new energy plan will not phase out nuclear energy and calls it important in supplying electricity


Japan's next energy plan will put nuclear energy back into a major role for Japan' energy mix and will reverse the call to phase out nuclear energy.  Prime Minister Abe just needs to get it through Japan's political process.


Smoking Gun Research Continuing in Earnest


Smoking Gun Research Continuing in Earnest


Rod Adams has studied the world’s most important commodity business. He has discovered that the opposition to nuclear energy that really matters does not come from the vocal opponents that claim to be concerned about the potential for accidents, the proliferation of nuclear weapons, the release of small amounts of radioactive material or even the high cost of building the plants. The opposition that really matters comes from individuals, companies, organizations and even whole countries that have a vested interest in selling competitive products.

Climate change ‘tipping points’ imminent PhysOrg

Climate change ‘tipping points’ imminent PhysOrg
http://phys.org/news/2013-12-climate-imminent.html

Printer-friendly version The Future of America's Nuclear Deterrent

Printer-friendly version

The Future of America's Nuclear Deterrent

http://nationalinterest.org/commentary/the-future-americas-nuclear-deterrent-9512

Nuclear Prices Itself Out Of The Market — Graph

Nuclear Prices Itself Out Of The Market — Graph
Read more at http://cleantechnica.com/2013/11/05/nuclear-prices-market-graph/#Lq3dsOBPUFWoIQIB.99
 Nuclear Prices Itself Out Of The Market — Graph
http://cleantechnica.com/2013/11/05/nuclear-prices-market-graph/

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Nuclear Science Needs More Women, Urges IAEA Deputy Director General Janice Dunn Lee

Nuclear Science Needs More Women, Urges IAEA Deputy Director General Janice Dunn Lee

Ms Janice Dunn Lee
IAEA Deputy Director General for Management, Ms. Janice Dunn Lee, speaking at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York (Photo: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute )
On 22 November 2013, Ms. Janice Dunn Lee, Deputy Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), gave a keynote address on Sixty Years of Atoms for Peace: Women in Nuclear Science at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, United States.
Addressing the gathering, Deputy Director General Dunn Lee introduced the vision set out in the 1953 "Atoms for Peace" speech by then U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower at the United Nations General Assembly. The speech catalysed the process that led to the establishment of the IAEA. Her presentation summarized the Agency's mandate and its continuing work in fostering the peaceful, safe and sustainable uses of nuclear energy to monitor the environment, track pollution, reduce plastic waste, strengthen food and water security, improve health care, and provide low-carbon energy. She stressed that the Agency's mission is as relevant today as it was 60 years ago.
Deputy Director General Dunn Lee stressed the need to reduce the gender imbalance in the nuclear sciences. She viewed this disparity with concern stating that in order to grow, the nuclear world needs to make use of the talents and leadership abilities of both men and women. As the first female Head of the IAEA Department of Management, Ms. Dunn Lee mentioned that one of her goals was to encourage women to enter the nuclear field and consider careers in nuclear science and applications. She emphasized that the IAEA works actively to encourage and increase the number of women in senior positions and to implement gender mainstreaming in its programmes. She noted that creating a wider awareness of the benefits of peaceful uses of nuclear energy is vital as this field of study plays a significant role in the prosperity of humanity and contributes to sustainable development.
For example, in human health, Deputy Director General Dunn Lee provided an orientation on the IAEA's programmes that utilize nuclear medicine and radiation therapy to detect and treat non-communicable diseases, including their use in fighting the world's major killers, cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
In the area of food security, the Deputy Director General drew attention to the close collaboration that the Agency maintains with the FAO is developing crop varieties that are resilient against drought and disease, and can thrive in saline soil conditions. The IAEA and the FAO have been collaborating in improving agriculture in the developing world for almost fifty years through the use of nuclear techniques.
Ms. Dunn Lee noted that the IAEA supports Member States in finding solutions to address global challenges such ensuring access to appropriate and adequate energy, which is crucial in achieving sustainable development and reducing poverty. She explained that the IAEA provides Member States with comprehensive energy assessments and planning support, which incorporate the full range of all energy options: renewable, nuclear and fossil.
The Deputy Director General's presentation also highlighted the Agency's mandate in nuclear safety and security, as well in safeguards and verification.
The recording of IAEA Deputy Director General Janice Dunn Lee's presentation is accessible here.
Technical requirements for viewing the presentation can be found here.

-- By Aabha Dixit, IAEA Division of Public Information

Meeting the Energy Needs of the 21st Century: Is it Time for a Real Nuclear Renaissance?

Meeting the Energy Needs of the 21st Century: Is it Time for a Real Nuclear Renaissance?


http://theenergycollective.com/mzconsulting/311981/meeting-energy-needs-21st-century-it-time-real-nuclear-renaissance?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The+Energy+Collective+%28all+posts%29

Govt to classify N-power as ‘important source’


Govt to classify N-power as ‘important source’

http://the-japan-news.com/news/article/0000848716

China Nuclear Power Market Scale Worth CNY 170 billion by 2017

China Nuclear Power Market Scale Worth CNY 170 billion by 2017


Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/05/5972429/china-nuclear-power-market-scale.html#storylink=cpy DALLAS, Dec. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- MarketReportsChina.com adds "Research and Forecast of China Nuclear Power Market, 2013-2017" report to its research database. It is estimated in this report that the industry will reach CNY 144.5 billion by 2015.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20131205/MN28275)
In 2012, the market scale of China's nuclear power reached CNY 35.897 billion with year-on-year growth of 16.7%; the nuclear power generation volume reached 98.317 billion KWH, rising by 12.75% compared with 2011 and accounting for 9.22% of the total clear energy power volume, 1.97% of the total power generation volume in China. Get a copy of the complete report at http://www.marketreportschina.com/research-and-forecast-of-china-nuclear-power-market-2013-2017.
In 2013, two new nuclear power units realized the grid-connection and put into operation sequentially, referring to 1# unit of Ningde in Fujian and 1# unit of Hongyan River of Liaoning, each of which has the installed capacity of 1.08 million KW. Currently, there are 17 nuclear power generating units that have been operated and 27 generating units are under construction in China with the total installed capacity of 43.51 million KW.
In terms of regional distribution, China's nuclear power units in operation are mainly distributed in the coastal regions, such as Guangdong, Zhejiang, Fujian, Hainan and Liaoning etc. As for the nuclear power units that are under construction, besides the expansion in the provinces above, they are also distributed in Hainan, Guangxi and Shandong etc.
According to China's nuclear power development planning, by 2015, the capacity of operating units in the industry should reach 40 million KW and the power generation volume should reach 340 billion KWH. If calculating basing on the current benchmark price of nuclear power, the market scale of the nuclear power industry will reach CNY 144.5 billion by 2015, which is estimated to reach CNY 170 billion by 2017.
According to the conservative estimates of 58 million KW in 2020, 12.5 million KW needs to be opened before the year of 2015, which about amounts to 10 AP1000 units, and 5 units per year. In terms of China's energy structure, 58 million KW in 2020 maybe is the lower limit of the installed capacity, and it's very possible that the installed capacity will exceed the planning figure.
Place a direct purchase order at http://www.marketreportschina.com/contacts/purchase?rname=3752.

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/05/5972429/china-nuclear-power-market-scale.html#storylink=cpy

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/05/5972429/china-nuclear-power-market-scale.html
DALLAS, Dec. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- MarketReportsChina.com adds "Research and Forecast of China Nuclear Power Market, 2013-2017" report to its research database. It is estimated in this report that the industry will reach CNY 144.5 billion by 2015.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20131205/MN28275)
In 2012, the market scale of China's nuclear power reached CNY 35.897 billion with year-on-year growth of 16.7%; the nuclear power generation volume reached 98.317 billion KWH, rising by 12.75% compared with 2011 and accounting for 9.22% of the total clear energy power volume, 1.97% of the total power generation volume in China. Get a copy of the complete report at http://www.marketreportschina.com/research-and-forecast-of-china-nuclear-power-market-2013-2017.
In 2013, two new nuclear power units realized the grid-connection and put into operation sequentially, referring to 1# unit of Ningde in Fujian and 1# unit of Hongyan River of Liaoning, each of which has the installed capacity of 1.08 million KW. Currently, there are 17 nuclear power generating units that have been operated and 27 generating units are under construction in China with the total installed capacity of 43.51 million KW.
In terms of regional distribution, China's nuclear power units in operation are mainly distributed in the coastal regions, such as Guangdong, Zhejiang, Fujian, Hainan and Liaoning etc. As for the nuclear power units that are under construction, besides the expansion in the provinces above, they are also distributed in Hainan, Guangxi and Shandong etc.
According to China's nuclear power development planning, by 2015, the capacity of operating units in the industry should reach 40 million KW and the power generation volume should reach 340 billion KWH. If calculating basing on the current benchmark price of nuclear power, the market scale of the nuclear power industry will reach CNY 144.5 billion by 2015, which is estimated to reach CNY 170 billion by 2017.
According to the conservative estimates of 58 million KW in 2020, 12.5 million KW needs to be opened before the year of 2015, which about amounts to 10 AP1000 units, and 5 units per year. In terms of China's energy structure, 58 million KW in 2020 maybe is the lower limit of the installed capacity, and it's very possible that the installed capacity will exceed the planning figure.
Place a direct purchase order at http://www.marketreportschina.com/contacts/purchase?rname=3752.

Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/05/5972429/china-nuclear-power-market-scale.html#storylink=cpy