Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Saturday, February 28, 2015

75% of Air and Rain Samples Contain Monsanto’s RoundUp

75% of Air and Rain Samples Contain Monsanto’s RoundUp


http://www.globalresearch.ca/75-of-air-and-rain-samples-contain-monsantos-roundup/5434013

Why electricity from Russian nuclear power plants is cheaper?



http://in.rbth.com/economics/2015/02/27/why_electricity_from_russian_nuclear_power_plants_is_cheaper_41689.html

Energy and Water Subcommittee Hearing on FY2016 Request for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Energy and Water Subcommittee Hearing on FY2016 Request for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission

 
ENERGY AND WATER DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (Lamar Alexander, Chairman)
 
Hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2016 funding request and budget justification for the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
 
2:30 p.m., Room 192, Dirksen Senate Office Building
 
Witnesses:
 
Stephen G. Burns
Chairman
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
 
Kristine L. Svinicki
Commissioner
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
 
William C. Ostendorff
Commissioner
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
 
Jeff Baran
Commissioner
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
 
Subcommittees: 
Energy and Water Development
Date: 
Wednesday, March 4, 2015 - 2:30pm

THE WEEK AHEAD: BUDGET HEARINGS ON AGENDA, INCLUDING TESTIMONY FROM TOP ADMINISTRATION OFFICIALS


THE WEEK AHEAD: BUDGET HEARINGS ON AGENDA, INCLUDING TESTIMONY FROM TOP ADMINISTRATION OFFICIALS

http://www.bna.com/week-ahead-budget-b17179923502/

Feds Allow Lawsuit To Shut Down Diablo Canyon To Proceed

Feds Allow Lawsuit To Shut Down Diablo Canyon To Proceed
https://www.indybay.org/newsitems/2015/02/27/18769260.php

Proponents of Nuclear Energy need to stop Demonizing Fossil Fuels

Proponents of Nuclear Energy need to stop Demonizing Fossil Fuels


https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/proponents-nuclear-energy-need-stop-demonizing-fossil-jon-morrow

Yes Vermont Yankee The Local Grid: Pictures at the Edge


Yes Vermont Yankee

The Local Grid: Pictures at the Edge


On a recent cold morning, the New England grid had 243 MW excess capacity with 20,000 MW projected demand. (A 1% safety margin!))  In this post, Meredith Angwin shares screen shots from the grid operator website. These are  "Pictures at the Edge (of reliability)." Oh yeah, prices also soared past $230 MWh.

The “Pause” in Global Warming Is Finally Explained


The “Pause” in Global Warming Is Finally Explained

http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/2015/02/26/the-pause-in-global-warming-is-finally-explained/

"Surprise! CO2 Directly Linked To Global Warming "

 Surprise! CO2 Directly Linked To Global Warming http://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesconca/2015/02/27/surprise-co2-directly-linked-to-global-warming/

Japan’s largest nuclear power station moves to center of reactor restart efforts


Japan’s largest nuclear power station moves to center of reactor restart efforts

  • TEPCO calls for rate increase if it cannot restart of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa
  • KANSAI gets preliminary approval to restart Takahama 3 & 4
  • MIT’s Richard Lester offers TEPCO and Japan advice on reducing greenhouse gasses by investing in nuclear energy

http://neutronbytes.com/2015/02/22/japans-largest-nuclear-power-station-moves-to-center-of-reactor-restart-efforts/

The Real Subject of Netanyahu's Congressional Spectacle (It Isn't Nukes)

http://nationalinterest.org/blog/paul-pillar/the-real-subject-netanyahus-congressional-spectacle-it-isnt-12337?page=show



The Real Subject of Netanyahu's Congressional Spectacle (It Isn't Nukes)

Benjamin Netanyahu will talk next week, as he has innumerable times before, about how an Iranian nuclear weapon is supposedly an extremely grave and imminent (he has been saying for years that it is just around the corner) threat to world peace and to his nation. There has been genuine concern in Israel about this subject, but Netanyahu's own behavior and posture indicate this is not the concern that is driving his conduct and in particular his diplomacy-wrecking efforts. He is acting out of other motives, ones that—quite unlike the objective of avoiding an Iranian nuclear weapon—are not shared with the United States and instead directly conflict with U.S. interests.
There have been plenty of reasons to doubt all along Netanyahu's alarmist rhetoric. There has been his history of wolf-crying on the subject, against the background of an Iran that has not even decided to build a nuclear weapon. There is the further background of Israel's overwhelming military superiority in the region, at not only the conventional level but also at the level about which Netanyahu is raising such alarm [4]. And there are the repeated indications that his alarmism goes beyond what even his own security services believe [5].

http://nationalinterest.org/blog/paul-pillar/the-real-subject-netanyahus-congressional-spectacle-it-isnt-12337?page=show

Three takeaways from Babcock & Wilcox’s latest earnings


Three takeaways from Babcock & Wilcox’s latest earnings

http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/blog/energy/2015/02/three-takeaways-from-babcock-wilcox-s-latest.html

Can Obama's Iran Deal Outlive His Presidency?

Senior Fellow John Isaacs quoted in Bloomberg View On Iran

Can Obama's Iran Deal Outlive His Presidency?



http://armscontrolcenter.org/press/hits/John_Isaacs_in_BloombergView_on_Iran/

Center Board Member Col. Klass Publishes Iran End Game Article in Roll Call

Center Board Member Col. Klass Publishes Iran End Game Article in Roll Call


http://armscontrolcenter.org/press/hits/Roll_Call_Blog_Klass_Iran_02272015/

Diseconomy of scale – world’s largest canned-motor reactor coolant pump


Diseconomy of scale – world’s largest canned-motor reactor coolant pump


On February 16, 2015, an AP article by Ray Henry titled Nuclear plants delayed in China, watched closely by US firms contained a short paragraph that has contributed to a number of sleepless nights. I’m pretty sure there are plenty of other people affected in the same manner who have far more at stake than I do. Here are the worry-simulating words.
Officials at China’s State Nuclear Power Technology Corp. blame the delays on the late delivery of equipment from the United States. Westinghouse Electric Co. and project manufacturers are working to redesign a coolant pump for the plant.
(Emphasis added.)


http://atomicinsights.com/diseconomy-of-scale-worlds-largest-canned-motor-reactor-coolant-pump/

Atomic Show #233 – Innovators discuss advanced reactor development in US

 

Atomic Show #233 – Innovators discuss advanced reactor development in US


There are a growing number of innovative small companies and a few divisions of larger companies that have recognized that nuclear energy offers solutions to a number of important human challenges. Despite the proclamations by opponents, the Nuclear Renaissance is not any more dead in 2015 than the original Renaissance was dead in 1315.
http://atomicinsights.com/atomic-show-233-innovators-discuss-advanced-reactor-development-in-us/

Friday, February 27, 2015

As Antarctica Melts Away, Seas Could Rise Ten Feet Within 100 Years

As Antarctica Melts Away, Seas Could Rise Ten Feet Within 100 Years

Based on rapid thawing, continent has become 'ground zero of global climate change without a doubt,' says geophysicist


http://www.commondreams.org/news/2015/02/27/antarctica-melts-away-seas-could-rise-ten-feet-within-100-years

More Americans Dying From Hypothermia, CDC Says: MedlinePlus

More Americans Dying From Hypothermia, CDC Says: MedlinePlus

▶ New York City Surrounded by Ice Floes - YouTube

▶ New York City Surrounded by Ice Floes - YouTube

Global Warming Dead on Arrival


Global Warming Dead on Arrival


http://drsircus.com/world-news/global-warming-dead-on-arrival

Climate scientist says rational threat assessment needed for nuclear power

Climate scientist says rational threat assessment needed for nuclear power http://globalnews.ca/news/1854499/climate-scientist-says-rational-threat-assessment-needed-for-nuclear-power/

The Ultimate Nightmare: Are the U.S. and China Destined for War?

The Ultimate Nightmare: Are the U.S. and China Destined for War?


http://nationalinterest.org/feature/the-ultimate-nightmare-are-the-us-china-destined-war-12331

China’s Space Weapons Threaten U.S. Satellites

China’s Space Weapons Threaten U.S. Satellites

Stratcom worried by antisatellite missiles, satellite weapons, lasers


http://freebeacon.com/national-security/chinas-space-weapons-threaten-us-satellites/

Is Obama’s Vision of Nuclear Zero Leading to Nowhere?

A Dangerous Rivalry Renewed

Is Obama’s Vision of Nuclear Zero Leading to Nowhere?

by SHAMS UZ ZAMAN
Islamabad.


http://www.counterpunch.org/2015/02/27/is-obamas-vision-of-nuclear-zero-leading-to-nowhere/

Nuclear power: Energy for the future or relic of the past?

Nuclear power: Energy for the future or relic of the past?


http://www.bbc.com/news/business-30919045

Climate of Incivility Climate McCarthyism is Wrong Whether Democratic or Republican


Climate of Incivility


Climate McCarthyism is Wrong Whether Democratic or Republican



https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=247854211242866212#editor/src=dashboardhttp://thebreakthrough.org/index.php/voices/michael-shellenberger-and-ted-nordhaus/climate-incivility

Broad, Bipartisan Group Announces Market-Based Solution Preserving Low-Carbon Energy in Illinois -- SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Feb. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

Broad, Bipartisan Group Announces Market-Based Solution Preserving Low-Carbon Energy in Illinois -- SPRINGFIELD, Ill., Feb. 26, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

European Commission May Axe Hungary-Russia Nuclear Plant Deal

European Commission May Axe Hungary-Russia Nuclear Plant Deal
Moscow, Russia (SPX) Feb 24, 2015 - The European Commission (EC) is looking into the legality of Hungary's contract with Russia to construct new units of the Paks nuclear power plant in central Hungary, the Financial Times reported Monday. On December 9, 2014, Moscow and Budapest signed a contract for the construction of two new 1,200-megawatt power generating units for Paks. Last week, Russia's nuclear agency Rosatom ... morehttp://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/European_Commission_May_Axe_Hungary_Russia_Nuclear_Plant_Deal_999.html

Fukushima operator concealed radioactive leak for nearly a year

Fukushima operator concealed radioactive leak for nearly a year
Tokyo, Japan (Sputnik) Feb 27, 2015 - Tokyo Electric Power Co., TEPCO, has been slammed by fishermen, for knowingly allowing radioactive substances to flow freely into the sea for ten months. Operators of the tsunami-stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant admitted that a drainage ditch allowed highly-contaminated water to flow into the sea, and that the leak was first detected back in May 2014. Fishermen were shocked to hear ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Busted!_Fukushima_Operator_Concealed_Radioactive_Leak_for_Nearly_a_Year_999.html

Lulu Li: Modeling the Maelstrom inside a Reactor


Lulu Li: Modeling the Maelstrom inside a Reactor

Reactor physicist Lulu Li wants to make reactors safer by studying the "kinetic choreography" of the rapidly moving neutrons inside of them.

http://mitei.mit.edu/news/lulu-li-modeling-maelstrom-inside-reactor?utm_source=MIT+Energy+Initiative&utm_campaign=ef89743b2a-eNewsletter_Test10_16_2012&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_eb3c6d9c51-ef89743b2a-70117141

Ernest Moniz and Ratan Tata Talk Energy Innovation at ARPA-E Summit


Ernest Moniz and Ratan Tata Talk Energy Innovation at ARPA-E Summit

“The time is now for countries to use new technologies to solve old problems.”

http://mitei.mit.edu/news/ernest-moniz-and-ratan-tata-talk-energy-innovation-arpa-e-summit?utm_source=MIT+Energy+Initiative&utm_campaign=ef89743b2a-eNewsletter_Test10_16_2012&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_eb3c6d9c51-ef89743b2a-70117141

Bridging the Fuel Gap to the Future

Bridging the Fuel Gap to the Future

At one of the ten panels open to the public at the upcoming MIT Energy Club Conference, MIT energy economist Christopher Knittel will explore the future of shale gas with fellow experts in the field.


http://mitei.mit.edu/news/bridging-fuel-gap-future?utm_source=MIT+Energy+Initiative&utm_campaign=ef89743b2a-eNewsletter_Test10_16_2012&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_eb3c6d9c51-ef89743b2a-70117141

BOOK REVIEW: Game Changers: Energy on the Move

BOOK REVIEW: Game Changers: Energy on the Move

Foreign Affairs reviews former Secretary of State George P. Shultz and MITEI Director Robert C. Armstrong's book on the future of energy innovation.


http://mitei.mit.edu/news/book-review-game-changers-energy-move?utm_source=MIT+Energy+Initiative&utm_campaign=ef89743b2a-eNewsletter_Test10_16_2012&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_eb3c6d9c51-ef89743b2a-70117141

Fukushima Update 2/26/15 – Sunday’s short-lived radiation alarm has touched off a news media feeding frenzy… Area radiation levels in Kawamata have been cut in half… and more.

Fukushima Update 2/26/15 – Sunday’s short-lived radiation alarm has touched off a news media feeding frenzy… Area radiation levels in Kawamata have been cut in half… and more.

Independent Renewables & Environment Professional

Fukushima Accident Updates (Blog) hiroshimasyndrome.com

The internet's top source of Fukushima news. Many call it the Fukushima nuclear disaster. The Fukushima accident is a major topic around the world.http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.com/fukushima-accident-updates.html

Small Modular Reactors in Nuclear Co-generation and Hybrid Systems in 5th Annual Small Modular Reactor Summit | Uranium Investing News

Small Modular Reactors in Nuclear Co-generation and Hybrid Systems in 5th Annual Small Modular Reactor Summit | Uranium Investing News

SMRs “back on the agenda next year”, says new report by Nuclear Energy Insider

SMRs “back on the agenda next year”, says new report by Nuclear Energy Insider

Fort Calhoun Nuclear Waste Needs A Home

Fort Calhoun Nuclear Waste Needs A Home

Vermont asks to join petition to study Entergy's finances | masslive.com

Vermont asks to join petition to study Entergy's finances | masslive.com

Palisades Nuclear Plant’s Safety Rating To Be Downgraded | WLNS.com

Palisades Nuclear Plant’s Safety Rating To Be Downgraded | WLNS.com

NRA chief slams TEPCO for data reporting delay


NRA chief slams TEPCO for data reporting delay

http://the-japan-news.com/news/article/0001964267

India: Damage claim for nuclear accident only under liability law, says Government

India: Damage claim for nuclear accident only under liability law, says Government 

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/damage-claim-for-nuclear-accident-only-under-liability-law-says-government/articleshow/46379229.cms

NEI: FERC Has Key Role in Meeting EPA Emission Goals

NEI: FERC Has Key Role in Meeting EPA Emission Goals


http://www.nei.org/News-Media/News/News-Archives/NEI-FERC-Has-Key-Role-in-Meeting-EPA-Emission-Goal

What would happen if an 800-kiloton nuclear warhead detonated above midtown Manhattan?

What would happen if an 800-kiloton nuclear warhead detonated above midtown Manhattan?

Steven Starr, Lynn Eden, Theodore A. Postol http://thebulletin.org/what-would-happen-if-800-kiloton-nuclear-warhead-detonated-above-midtown-manhattan8023

Energy Startup Series: Gridium

Energy Startup Series: Gridium

By Breaking Energy
New Combined Electricity Project Connect Spain and France
Adam Stein (left) and Tom Arnold (right) became friends at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and together co-founded TerraPass, a pioneering greenhouse gas management company. This business partnership continues today at Gridium, where Adam is President and VP of Product, and Tom is CEO. Buildings use Gridium software to operate more efficiently,

Another US Nuclear Plant Shuts Down

Another US Nuclear Plant Shuts Down

By EEnergy Informer
Anniversary Of Nuclear Disaster At Three Mile Island Marked Near The Site
Low demand, depressed wholesale prices & low cost shale gas are to blame  In late December 2014, Entergy Corp. announced that Yankee nuclear power plant would cease operation after 42 years of service during which it generated 171 billion kWhrs of carbon-free electricity – more than 70% of Vermont’s electricity total demand since 1972. Bill

Aussie Wave Energy Deployment Makes Splash, but Next Project Will Be Real Test

Aussie Wave Energy Deployment Makes Splash, but Next Project Will Be Real Test

By Pete Danko
ceto 5 and ceto 6
It’s been a long, hard winter for wave energy, with reports of failure and retrenchment streaming out of Europe. But, hey, it’s still summer Down Under, and Australia has delivered a rare sunny wave story. The question is whether the Carnegie Wave Energy system near Perth – it officially began piping energy to the grid

Thursday, February 26, 2015

How NAFTA Could Spoil a Keystone XL Rejection

How NAFTA Could Spoil a Keystone XL Rejection

TransCanada could harness trade deal's Investor-State Dispute Settlement, and U.S. taxpayers could foot the bill.

http://www.commondreams.org/news/2015/02/26/how-nafta-could-spoil-keystone-xl-rejection

Solar Energy Delivers Too Little Bang For Billions Invested

Solar Energy Delivers Too Little Bang For Billions Invested


http://www.forbes.com/sites/realspin/2015/02/25/solar-energy-delivers-too-little-bang-for-billions-invested/

YUCCA MOUNTAIN: DOE, Pentagon considering new uses for Nev. site -- lawmakers

YUCCA MOUNTAIN:

DOE, Pentagon considering new uses for Nev. site -- lawmakers



http://www.eenews.net/stories/1060014115

AIR POLLUTION: Judges signal more trouble looms for EPA's cross-state rule -- Wednesday, February 25, 2015 -- www.eenews.net

AIR POLLUTION: Judges signal more trouble looms for EPA's cross-state rule -- Wednesday, February 25, 2015 -- www.eenews.net

Proposed drone rules could revolutionize grid monitoring

Proposed drone rules could revolutionize grid monitoring


http://www.utilitydive.com/news/proposed-drone-rules-could-revolutionize-grid-monitoring/367721/

Thorium, The Betamax of Nuclear Technologies

Thorium, The Betamax of Nuclear Technologies


http://neinuclearnotes.blogspot.com/2015/02/thorium-betamax-of-nuclear-technologies.html

Energy sector is nothing new for county - Timesonline.com: 2015

Energy sector is nothing new for county - Timesonline.com: 2015

Energy secretary: Some Hanford waste might go down deep boreholes | Hanford news | Tri-CityHerald.com

Energy secretary: Some Hanford waste might go down deep boreholes | Hanford news | Tri-CityHerald.com

Sea level spiked for 2 years along northeastern North America

Sea level spiked for 2 years along northeastern North America
Tucson AZ (SPX) Feb 26, 2015 - Sea levels from New York to Newfoundland jumped up about four inches in 2009 and 2010 because ocean circulation changed, a University of Arizona-led team reports in an upcoming issue of Nature Communications. The team was the first to document that the extreme increase in sea level lasted two years, not just a few months. "The thing that stands out is the time extent of this event as well ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Sea_level_spiked_for_2_years_along_northeastern_North_America_999.html

Potential first direct observation of CO2 effect at the Earth's surface

Potential first direct observation of CO2 effect at the Earth's surface
Berkeley CA (SPX) Feb 26, 2015 - Scientists have observed an increase in carbon dioxide's greenhouse effect at the Earth's surface for the first time. The researchers, led by scientists from the US Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab), measured atmospheric carbon dioxide's increasing capacity to absorb thermal radiation emitted from the Earth's surface over an eleven-year period at two loc ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/First_direct_observation_of_carbon_dioxides_increasing_greenhouse_effect_at_the_Earths_surface_999.html

Gen IV Nuclear: The IFR | Decarbonise SA

Gen IV Nuclear: The IFR | Decarbonise SA

Major terror attack against India could trigger nuclear war: Experts - The Economic Times

Major terror attack against India could trigger nuclear war: Experts - The Economic Times

Nuclear Energy Institute - NEI Commends DOE’s Final Nuclear Export Rule

Nuclear Energy Institute - NEI Commends DOE’s Final Nuclear Export Rule

Experts Underscore Need to Strengthen R&D Data Sharing as Part of Post-Fukushima Action Plan | International Atomic Energy Agency

Experts Underscore Need to Strengthen R&D Data Sharing as Part of Post-Fukushima Action Plan | International Atomic Energy Agency

The lesson of Fukushima — Nuclear energy is safe

The lesson of Fukushima — Nuclear energy is safe

PUCO rejects deal to have ratepayers subsidize a coal-fired power plant | cleveland.com

PUCO rejects deal to have ratepayers subsidize a coal-fired power plant | cleveland.com

Nuclear Waste Could Offer Carbon-Free Energy, Scientists Suggest

Nuclear Waste Could Offer Carbon-Free Energy, Scientists Suggest

Nuclear power is a 'national asset', says US think tank

Nuclear power is a 'national asset', says US think tank

Nuclear Power Generartion in India Doubles, Capacity Utilisation Up 33 Pc - The New Indian Express

Nuclear Power Generartion in India Doubles, Capacity Utilisation Up 33 Pc - The New Indian Express

Regulators revise findings on Global Nuclear Fuels safety equipment | StarNewsOnline.com

Regulators revise findings on Global Nuclear Fuels safety equipment | StarNewsOnline.com

Vermont attorney general joins petition field with NRC raising questions about financial health of Entergy Nuclear | GazetteNet.com

Vermont attorney general joins petition field with NRC raising questions about financial health of Entergy Nuclear | GazetteNet.com

Vermont attorney general joins petition field with NRC raising questions about financial health of Entergy Nuclear | GazetteNet.com

Vermont attorney general joins petition field with NRC raising questions about financial health of Entergy Nuclear | GazetteNet.com

China and Changing Fuel Sources and Needs | The Energy Collective

China and Changing Fuel Sources and Needs | The Energy Collective

Taking US-China Relations Global | The Diplomat

Taking US-China Relations Global | The Diplomat

A Stock to Play China’s Nuclear Boom

A Stock to Play China’s Nuclear Boom

A fall in CGN Power shares since its IPO offers an entry for those keen to profit from Beijing’s clean energy push.


http://online.barrons.com/news/articles/SB51367578116875004693704580483322090723774

Westinghouse Gets Behind European Commission's Energy Union - Nuclear Power Industry News - Nuclear Power Industry News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Westinghouse Gets Behind European Commission's Energy Union - Nuclear Power Industry News - Nuclear Power Industry News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Washington has Resurrected the Threat of Nuclear War » CounterPunch: Tells the Facts, Names the Names

Washington has Resurrected the Threat of Nuclear War » CounterPunch: Tells the Facts, Names the Names

Russia to train Indian nuclear specialists

Russia to train Indian nuclear specialists


http://in.rbth.com/news/2015/02/26/russia_to_train_indian_nuclear_specialists_41631.html

Washington Has Destroyed Trust Between Nuclear Powers, Thus Raising The Specter Of Nuclear War

Washington Has Destroyed Trust Between Nuclear Powers, Thus Raising The Specter Of Nuclear War


http://www.globalresearch.ca/washington-has-destroyed-trust-between-nuclear-powers-thus-raising-the-specter-of-war/5433578

S. Korea, Czech Republic upgrade ties to strategic partnership

S. Korea, Czech Republic upgrade ties to strategic partnership


http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20150226000641

UPDATE 1-S.Korea's nuclear watchdog approves restart of second-oldest reactor

UPDATE 1-S.Korea's nuclear watchdog approves restart of second-oldest reactor


http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/02/26/southkorea-nuclear-idUKL4N0W058D20150226

Electric Power Convention April 21-13

Electric Power 2015
April 21-23, 2015 | Rosemont's Convention Center | Chicago, IL
Department of Energy's William F. Hederman, Jr. to Deliver the Keynote Presentation at ELECTRIC POWER 2015
NEW ideas. NEW connections. NEW opportunities. NEW resources.

William F. Hederman, Jr. U.S.
Department of Energy
February 25, Houston, TX – William F. Hederman, Jr., Deputy Director for Systems Integration and Senior Advisor to the Secretary at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), has agreed to give the Keynote Presentation at ELECTRIC POWER 2015, which will take place April 21-23, 2015 at Rosemont’s Convention Center in Chicago. He will discuss the origins, preliminary findings and the analytical approach to gather the information for the Quadrennial Energy Review (QER). Register today to secure your seat at the Keynote Address.
“The QER, announced as part of the President’s Climate Action Plan, will provide a roadmap to modernize our energy infrastructure in ways that will support the Nation’s economic competitiveness and energy security, and enable us to move toward a low-carbon future,” said Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz.
The DOE plays a critical role in analyzing the ability of the QER to address the challenges of changes in energy supply, markets and patterns of consumers as well as the issues of climate change impact, aging, capacity and both cyber and physical threats.
“ELECTRIC POWER looks forward to hosting Mr. Hederman as he outlines the findings of the QER and its subsequent impact on the energy infrastructure. Our event draws thousands from the power generation industry who will be very interested in the preliminary results.” says Jamie Reesby, Show Director for ELECTRIC POWER Conference + Exhibition.
Prior to the DOE, Mr. Hederman was Vice President for Business Development and Strategic Initiatives at Columbia Transmission Companies on the management team that brought Columbia out of bankruptcy and sold it to another utility at an attractive price for shareholders. During the Enron and California crises, FERC Chairman Patrick Wood asked Hederman to join the agency and form the Office of Market Oversight and Investigations, which has been credited with playing a major role in the restoration of confidence in electricity and natural gas regulatory oversight.
The 2015 ELECTRIC POWER Conference + Exhibition, scheduled for April 21-23 in Chicago, cuts across fuel classifications to address the technically advanced power plant through six conference tracks that address the changes affecting power plants in a challenging era of environmental compliance, safety initiatives, and operational efficiency.
Register today with code KEYNOTE to save $150 off the full rate to attend the event that draws more power generating companies than any other event!
SUBMIT REGISTRATION

Regardless of company, fuel type or career level, ELECTRIC POWER has something for you.
www.electricpowerexpo.com

NRC Science 101 – About Spent Nuclear Fuel Part II

NRC Science 101 – About Spent Nuclear Fuel Part II

Greg Casto
Branch Chief
Division of Reactor Safety Systems

science_101_squeakychalkOur last post talked about the fuel that powers nuclear reactors. Today, we’ll talk about what happens to that fuel when it’s removed from a reactor.
You’ll recall that fuel becomes very hot and very radioactive as it is used in the reactor core to heat water. After about five years, the fuel is no longer useful and is removed. Reactor operators have to manage the heat and radioactivity that remains in the “spent fuel” after it’s taken out of the reactor. In the U.S., every reactor has at least one pool on the plant site where spent fuel is placed for storage. Plant personnel move the spent fuel underwater from the reactor to the pool. Over time, as the spent fuel is stored in the pool, it becomes cooler as the radioactivity decays away. 
These pools contain an enormous quantity of water—enough to cover the fuel by about 20 feet. The water serves two purposes: it cools the fuel and shields workers at the plant from radioactivity. Having 20 feet of water above the fuel means there is a lot more water than is needed for cooling and shielding the workers. Also, because of the extra water and the simple design of the pool, there is a lot of time for plant personnel to add water to the pool if needed for any reason.
fuelpoolThe pools are built to meet strict NRC safety requirements. They have very thick, steel-reinforced concrete walls and stainless-steel liners, and are protected by security personnel. There are no drains that would allow the water level to drop or the pool to become empty. The plants have a variety of extra water sources and equipment to replenish water that evaporates over time, or in case there is a leak. Plant personnel are also trained and prepared to quickly respond to a problem. They keep their skills sharp by routinely practicing their emergency plans and procedures.
When the plants were designed, the pools were intended to provide temporary onsite storage. The idea was for the spent fuel to sit in the pool for a few years to cool before it would be shipped offsite to be “reprocessed,” or separated so usable portions could be recycled into new fuel. But reprocessing didn’t end up being an option for nuclear power plants and the pools began to fill up.
In the early 1980s, nuclear plants began to look for ways to increase the amount of spent fuel they could store at the plant site. One way was to replace spent fuel storage racks in the pools with racks containing a special material that allowed spent fuel to be packed closer together. Another way was to place older, cooler and less radioactive fuel in dry storage casks that could be stored in specially built facilities at the plant site. We’ll talk more about dry spent fuel storage in future blog posts.
Most plants today use both re-designed storage racks and dry storage facilities to store spent fuel. All storage methods must be reviewed in detail and approved by the NRC before a plant is allowed to change storage methods.


Fukushima Update 2/26/15

Fukushima Update 2/26/15

Sunday’s short-lived radiation alarm has touched off a news media feeding frenzy… Area radiation levels in Kawamata have been cut in half… Tepco may stop requiring full face-masks for some F. Daiichi decommissioning work… The antinuclear base-camp in Tokyo is ordered to be taken down… No accident Plutonium has been found in the Pacific Ocean seabed… Naoto Kan preaches his antinuclear gospel in Paris… Fukushima’s governor has approved the movement of rural radioactive wastes… Die-hard antinukes in Tokyo refuse to believe the worst of the nuke accident has passed.

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

Reducing French nuclear share not most important issue of new energy law-minister


Reducing French nuclear share not most important issue of new energy law-minister

http://af.reuters.com/article/commoditiesNews/idAFL5N0VX2OB20150223

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Llewellyn King: Those Were The Days – The Life and Times of Former AEC Commissioner Wm. Doub By Llewellyn King


Llewellyn King: Those Were The Days – The Life and Times of Former AEC Commissioner Wm. Doub

By Llewellyn King

http://www.nucleartownhall.com/blog/llewellyn-king-those-were-the-days-the-life-and-times-of-former-aec-commissioner-wm-doub/

Obama's Keystone Veto Message: "If You've Got a Business, You Can't Build That Infrastructure Project"

Posted: 24 Feb 2015 08:59 PM PST
President Barack Obama has vetoed a bipartisan Congressional piece of legislation that aims to finally approve the Keystone XL pipeline project at the Federal level. Why does the President continue to block and delay this energy project’s permit decision?read morehttp://theenergycollective.com/jemillerep/2198146/president-obama-s-keystone-xl-pipeline-veto-message-if-you-ve-got-business-you-ca

Preventing Sea Level Rise in New York City While Cleaning the Air in India and China

Posted: 25 Feb 2015 05:00 AM PST
The New York City Panel on Climate Change predicted a hot and stormy future for the city. They are spending $20 billion to help ensure it can adapt to a more difficult future, but if the panel's prediction of two feet of sea level rise comes to pass, we will need many multiples of $20 billion to protect New York.read morehttp://theenergycollective.com/stevenacohen/2197861/preventing-sea-level-rise-new-york-city-while-cleaning-air-india-and-china

What Snowmageddon 2015 Is Showing Boston About Building Efficiency

Posted: 25 Feb 2015 09:00 AM PST
The Boston area is locked in one of the snowiest winters on record, and nearly every home, condominium and apartment building in the Northeast is adorned with icicles, which are hugely troubling from an environmental perspective. Ice on roofs speaks volumes about how easily heat is escaping from buildings.read morehttp://theenergycollective.com/matt-conway/2197876/what-snowmageddon-2015-showing-boston-about-building-efficiency

Hungarian Nuclear Power Plant Joins EPRI's Nuclear Research Program

Hungarian Nuclear Power Plant Joins EPRI's Nuclear Research Program - See more at: http://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2015/02/25/709767/10121922/en/Hungarian-Nuclear-Power-Plant-Joins-EPRI-s-Nuclear-Research-Program.html#sthash.stPx0NYT.dpuf

http://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2015/02/25/709767/10121922/en/Hungarian-Nuclear-Power-Plant-Joins-EPRI-s-Nuclear-Research-Program.html

Pennsylvania nuclear power plant in 'Hot Shutdown' over valve closure

Pennsylvania nuclear power plant in 'Hot Shutdown' over valve closure


http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/breaking-news/index.ssf/2015/02/pennsylvania_nuclear_power_pla.html

ANS Update: Belgian Doel 3 and Tihange 2 Back in the News

Belgian Doel 3 and Tihange 2 Back in the News

By ansnuclearcafe on Feb 25, 2015 11:00 am

The years-long saga surrounding the reactor pressure vessels at the Doel NPP Unit 3 and Tihange NPP Unit 2 has taken another turn, pushing these units back into the broader Continue Reading →
Read in browser »
share on Twitter Like Belgian Doel 3 and Tihange 2 Back in the News on Facebook

Fukushima Commentary 2/25/25 – Japan’s latest source of radiophobia – Rainwater!

Fukushima Commentary 2/25/25 –

Japan’s latest source of radiophobia – Rainwater!

Fear of radiation in Japan has reached a new low. Now, it’s small, biologically-harmless amounts of radioactive material being flushed away by rainwater. It seems that every time it rains in Fukushima, Tepco will be forced to warn everyone that an ensuing, harmless-but-detectible release of rainwater run-off is possible. Now, Japan’s radiophobic demographic has a new source of nuclear angst…rainwater.

http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.com/fukushima-commentary.html

Mayors pen letters supporting Exelon nuclear plants

Mayors pen letters supporting Exelon nuclear plants

EDF Pushes Back Decision On Hinkley Point C

EDF Pushes Back Decision On Hinkley Point C


http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2015/02/25/edf-pushes-back-decision-on-hinkley-point-c-022501.aspx#.VO4zEy5mrmc

3 reasons to give a damn about the deep sea | Grist

3 reasons to give a damn about the deep sea | Grist

AEM-Technologies meets milestone for Rostov 4

AEM-Technologies meets milestone for Rostov 4
The Volgodonsk branch of AEM-Technologies has completed a "key stage" in the manufacture of a steam generator for unit 4 of the Rostov nuclear power plant, packing the 11,000 stainless steel heat exchange pipes.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-AEM-Technology-meets-milestone-for-Rostov-4-2502201501.html

Funding for waste-handling robotics development

Funding for waste-handling robotics development
A project to develop new robotic techniques for use in the autonomous handling of radioactive wastes is among those recently selected for funding by the European Commission.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-Funding-for-waste-handling-robotics-development-2502154.html

Europe launches its Energy Union

Europe launches its Energy Union
The 28 member states of the European Union are to integrate their markets and increase security of supply under a policy set known as the Energy Union. Investments of €200 billion per year are expected over the nest decade.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-Europe-launches-its-Energy-Union-2502151.html

Toyota unveils fuel-cell car assembly line

Toyota unveils fuel-cell car assembly line
Toyota, Japan (AFP) Feb 24, 2015 - Toyota President Akio Toyoda on Tuesday unveiled the assembly line that is making the first mass market fuel-cell car. The world's biggest carmaker plans to produce 700 units of the four-door Mirai sedan - powered by hydrogen and emitting nothing but water vapour from its tailpipe - by the end of December. Production of the car whose name means "future" in Japanese is scheduled to expa ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Toyota_unveils_fuel-cell_car_assembly_line_999.html

Will Shuttering Coal Plants Really Threaten the Grid?

Will Shuttering Coal Plants Really Threaten the Grid?


http://spectrum.ieee.org/energywise/energy/policy/will-shuttering-coal-plants-really-threaten-the-grid/?utm_source=energywise&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=022515

Building a New Reactor: Part II—More on Cintichem

Building a New Reactor: Part II—More on Cintichem


http://nuclearstreet.com/pro_nuclear_power_blogs/b/science-history-nuclear/archive/2015/02/24/building-a-new-reactor-part-ii.aspx

Nuclear Advocate Pushes For Modular Reactor Presence In Washington State

Nuclear Advocate Pushes For Modular Reactor Presence In Washington State


http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2015/02/25/nuclear-advocate-pushes-for-modular-reactor-presence-in-washington-state-022502.aspx#.VO4wFC5mrmd

NRC Inspectors Looking Into V.C. Summer "Inadvertent" Rebar Cut

NRC Inspectors Looking Into V.C. Summer "Inadvertent" Rebar Cut


http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2015/02/24/nrc-inspectors-looking-into-v.c.-summer-_2200_inadvertent_2200_-rebar-cut-022402.aspx#.VO4v6S5mrmd

Taipower launches overseas reprocessing tender

Taipower launches overseas reprocessing tender


http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/WR-Taipower-launches-overseas-reprocessing-tender-1902155.html#.VO0jBd1YMok.linkedin

Final Nuclear Deal And Iran-China Relations – OpEd

Final Nuclear Deal And Iran-China Relations – OpEd


http://www.eurasiareview.com/24022015-final-nuclear-deal-and-iran-china-relations-oped/

China calls for confidence over Iran nuclear issue

China calls for confidence over Iran nuclear issue
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/china/2015-02/25/c_134017582.htm


China’s take on the Iranian Nuclear Talks
http://www.turkishweekly.net/news/180807/china-s-take-on-the-iranian-nuclear-talks.html

From Health Care to Energy: Majority of Americans Pay More, Get Less Under Obama | Commentary By Rep. John Shimkus

From Health Care to Energy: Majority of Americans Pay More, Get Less Under Obama | Commentary

By Rep. John Shimkus



http://www.rollcall.com/news/from_health_care_to_energy_majority_of_americans_pay_more_get_less_under-240289-1.html

State wants decades of records on LANL’s handling of nuke waste

State wants decades of records on LANL’s handling of nuke waste



http://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/state-demands-decade-of-records-on-lanl-s-nuke-waste/article_e13b277a-a910-5587-b103-72a3bda9b7c8.html

Southern Co. CEO bullish on new nuclear plants, despite recent delays

Southern Co. CEO bullish on new nuclear plants, despite recent delays


http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/blog/energy/2015/02/southern-co-ceo-bullish-on-new-nuclear-plants.html

U.S. Geological Survey: Fracking waste is the primary cause of the dramatic rise in earthquakes

U.S. Geological Survey: Fracking waste is the primary cause of the dramatic rise in earthquakes

Sea level spiked for 2 years along northeastern North America

Sea level spiked for 2 years along northeastern North America

Does Obama’s Keystone Veto Matter?


Does Obama’s Keystone Veto Matter?

The Keystone XL pipeline is a distraction from what’s really needed to solve climate change.

http://www.technologyreview.com/view/535416/does-obamas-keystone-veto-matter/?utm_campaign=newsletters&utm_source=newsletter-daily-all&utm_medium=email&utm_content=20150225

The Argument For Nuclear Energy In Australia

The Argument For Nuclear Energy In Australia


http://bravenewclimate.com/2015/02/25/the-argument-for-nuclear-energy-in-australia/

Energy Quote of the Day: Oil Sands Industry Must Cut Costs or Face ‘Death Spiral’

Energy Quote of the Day: Oil Sands Industry Must Cut Costs or Face ‘Death Spiral’

By Edward Dodge
A large excavator loads a truck with oil
The President of one of Canada’s biggest oil and gas producers warned the oil sands industry that they must cut costs or face a “death spiral”. The drop in oil prices is an “opportunity” for every part of the industry to cut costs and eliminate inefficiencies that crept into the system during years of high

Reducing French nuclear share not most important issue of new energy law-minister


Reducing French nuclear share not most important issue of new energy law-minister



http://af.reuters.com/article/commoditiesNews/idAFL5N0VX2OB20150223

The Wide-Ranging Benefits Of American Energy

The Wide-Ranging Benefits Of American Energy

By Energy Tomorrow Blog
Domestic Oil And Gas Production
Natural Gas Inventory Exceeds Five-Year Average for First Time Since Nov. 2013 EIA Today in Energy: Working natural gas in storage has surpassed five-year average levels for the first time in more than a year. At 2,157 billion cubic feet (Bcf) as of February 13, stocks are 58 Bcf greater than the five-year average. Recent

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

French Nuclear Industry Faces Shake-Up Amid Areva Loss - Forbes

French Nuclear Industry Faces Shake-Up Amid Areva Loss - Forbes

Supporting the Nuclear Front Line - All Things Nuclear

Supporting the Nuclear Front Line - All Things Nuclear

Energy Minister Hints At Overhaul For France’s Nuclear Sector

Energy Minister Hints At Overhaul For France’s Nuclear Sector

CNA2015 Presents Transatomic Power Co-Founder Dr. Leslie Dewan | TalkNuclear

CNA2015 Presents Transatomic Power Co-Founder Dr. Leslie Dewan | TalkNuclear

NEI Nuclear Notes: What FERC Does–and What It Can Do For Nuclear Energy

NEI Nuclear Notes: What FERC Does–and What It Can Do For Nuclear Energy

Obama and the Keystone Pipeline Veto | The Energy Collective

Obama and the Keystone Pipeline Veto | The Energy Collective

Palo Verde nuclear power plant is US’ largest producer for 23rd time - Power Engineering

Palo Verde nuclear power plant is US’ largest producer for 23rd time - Power Engineering

Atomic Show #233 – Innovators discuss advanced reactor development in US


Atomic Show #233 – Innovators discuss advanced reactor development in US

http://atomicinsights.com/atomic-show-233-innovators-discuss-advanced-reactor-development-in-us/

Putin’s Ukrainian Power Play | Foreign Policy

Putin’s Ukrainian Power Play | Foreign Policy

Bill Gates and Other Business Leaders Urge U.S. to Increase Energy Research - NYTimes.com

Bill Gates and Other Business Leaders Urge U.S. to Increase Energy Research - NYTimes.com

Israel's Netanyahu 'exaggerated' Iranian nuclear threat - Telegraph

Israel's Netanyahu 'exaggerated' Iranian nuclear threat - Telegraph

Obama rejects Keystone XL bill - CNN.com

Obama rejects Keystone XL bill - CNN.com

U.S., Iran Explore Option of 10-Year Nuclear Freeze - Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

U.S., Iran Explore Option of 10-Year Nuclear Freeze - Carnegie Endowment for International Peace

Nuclear Power Today | Nuclear Energy

Nuclear Power Today | Nuclear Energy

Alone in the Zone


Alone in the Zone

Watch the new documentary Alone in the Zone, produced by VICE Japan for their YouTube channel. Text by Tomo Kosuga Interview and photos by Ivan Kovac and Jeffrey Jousan Article translated from the Japanese by Luke Baker Today marks the second anniversary of the earthquake that devastated Japan and caused one of the most serious nuclear disasters in world history, when the Fukushima ...
Show More

http://www.vice.com/video/radioactive-man

N. Korea's nuclear stockpile could expand to 100 weapons: U.S. expert | GlobalPost

N. Korea's nuclear stockpile could expand to 100 weapons: U.S. expert | GlobalPost

How U.S. Power Generators Are Preparing for 2015 | POWER Magazine

How U.S. Power Generators Are Preparing for 2015 | POWER Magazine

How U.S. Power Generators Are Preparing for 2015 | POWER Magazine

How U.S. Power Generators Are Preparing for 2015 | POWER Magazine