Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Saturday, July 11, 2015

GOP senators vow to block U.S. from complying with global climate deal

GOP senators vow to block U.S. from complying with global climate deal



http://www.eenews.net/stories/1060021496

Spending Big: Saudi Arabia Works Towards Building Nuclear Capabilities Read more: http://sputniknews.com/middleeast/20150711/1024483505.html#ixzz3fclfYfZ5

Spending Big: Saudi Arabia Works Towards Building Nuclear Capabilities



http://sputniknews.com/middleeast/20150711/1024483505.html

Study: Wind Farms Even More Expensive And Pointless Than You Thought



http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2015/07/07/study-wind-farms-even-more-expensive-and-pointless-than-you-thought/

While Consensus Grows For Interim Storage Need For a Permanent Repository Remains Strong

While Consensus Grows For Interim Storage Need For a Permanent Repository Remains Strong


http://blog.wcsstorage.com/while-consensus-grows-for-interim-storage-need-for-a-permanent-repository-remains-strong/

ENE News Update - transport of radionucleides in the ocean from Fukushima

s from Japan’s National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Hirosaki University, and Peking University (pdf), May 2015 (emphasis added): Pu Distribution in Seawater in the Near Coastal Area off Fukushima… the amount of Pu isotopes directly released into the marine environment remains unknown. In the high level radioactive accumulated water collected at the FDNPP after the accident, high level radioactivities of Pu isotopes (ca. 10-3 Bq/mL) were detected. These values were 6 to 7 orders of magnitudes [1,000,000 – 10,000,000 times] higher than that of the seawater in the western North Pacific. In addition, a new study on Pu isotopes… suggested there was a potential sediment-borne Pu supply from Fukushima coastal rivers to the Pacific Ocean. Thus more attention should be paid to the contamination situation of Pu isotopes in the marine environment off Fukushima since the FDNPP accident… Pu isotopes in seawater… needs to be routinely investigated… There are two sampling sites close to the FDNP… 239+240Pu concentrations in seawater were reported in 2012-2014 and the range was from detection limit to 14 mBq/m3 except 31 mBq/m3 observed at T-2-1 site on 10 April 2014.

Scientists from Japan, Belgium, and French gov’t (pdf), 2015: Tracing the dispersion of contaminated sediment with plutonium isotope measurements in coastal catchments of Fukushima Prefecture — The Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP) accident led to important releases of radionuclides into the environment, and trace levels of plutonium (Pu) were detected in northeastern Japan… In this study, we measured Pu isotopic ratios in recently deposited sediments along rivers draining the most contaminated part of the inland radioactive plume… Results showed that the entire range of measured Pu isotopes (i.e. 239Pu, 240Pu, 241Pu, and 242Pu) were detected in all samples, although in extremely low concentrations. The 241Pu/239Pu atom ratios measured in sediment deposits (0.0017 – 0.0884) were significantly higher than the corresponding values attributed to the global fallout (0.00113 – 0.00008 on average in the Northern Hemisphere between 31-71 N)… These results demonstrate that this radionuclide has been transported relatively long distances… and deposited in rivers representing a potential source of Pu to the ocean.

Entrepreneurial Startups Tackle Advanced Nuclear Reactor Designs

Entrepreneurial Startups Tackle Advanced Nuclear Reactor Designs


http://neutronbytes.com/2015/07/10/entrepreneurial-startups-tackle-advanced-nuclear-reactor-designs/

NRC Webcast Portal Commission Briefing on Mitigation of Beyond Design Basis Events Rulemaking

NRC Webcast Portal



Commission Briefing on Mitigation of Beyond Design Basis Events Rulemaking



http://video.nrc.gov/vPlayer.php?eventID=1052&type=WM

The Mad Science of Nuclear Airplanes


The Mad Science of Nuclear Airplanes


http://www.counterpunch.org/2015/07/10/the-mad-science-of-nuclear-airplanes/

Panel hears conflicting safety assessments for Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant

Panel hears conflicting safety assessments for Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant


http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/07/panel-hears-conflicting-safety-assessments-for-diablo-canyon-nuclear-power-plant.html

Congressional Briefing on Molten Salt Reactors in Washington D.C.

Congressional Briefing on Molten Salt Reactors in Washington D.C.
 
 
Jon Morrow
 
 
http://www.egeneration.org/egeneration-policy-briefing/
 

Why new national monument could derail plans for nuke dump at Yucca

Why new national monument could derail plans for nuke dump at Yucca



http://lasvegassun.com/news/2015/jul/10/nevada-official-says-new-national-monument-throws-/

Friday, July 10, 2015

Nuclear Energy Renaissance Set to Move Ahead Without U.S.

Nuclear Energy Renaissance Set to Move Ahead Without U.S.


http://www.thirdway.org/report/nuclear-energy-renaissance-set-to-move-ahead-without-us

US Hopes Never to Use Atomic Weapons After Nuclear Flight Test - NNSA

US Hopes Never to Use Atomic Weapons After Nuclear Flight Test - NNSA



http://sputniknews.com/us/20150710/1024475587.html

Emerging Market Power: Russian, Brazilian Presidents Discuss Nuclear Energy

Emerging Market Power: Russian, Brazilian Presidents Discuss Nuclear Energy



http://sputniknews.com/politics/20150709/1024403769.html

Stiglitz Calls Climate Talks a 'Charade,' Pushes Plan C

Stiglitz Calls Climate Talks a 'Charade,' Pushes Plan C

The liberal economist says voluntary agreements don't work and cap-and-trade is 'doomed to failure'


http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-07-10/stiglitz-calls-climate-talks-a-charade-pushes-plan-c

PennEnergy's Top Power News 7/10

Top Power News

Nuclear reactor in Japan being loaded with nuke fuel before start

Foundations for first US offshore wind power farm head for RI

Natural gas-powered unit goes online at Kentucky power plant

As renewable energy debate heated up, firms doubled lobbying

Utility company asks Montana to raise electricity rates

GE to build wind power education center in China

Petroleum Development Oman and GlassPoint Solar to build one of the World’s largest solar power plants

Silfab Solar and Hatch reach agreement for solar power project

Landis+Gyr achieves Smart Meter wins in the Netherlands

Siemens to supply Veja Mate Offshore wind power plant with wind turbines

Areva opens new UK office in Westlakes

Siemens partners with Con Edison to install storm hardening system

Coronal and Panasonic complete solar power system in California

PennEnergy Blogs & OpEds

Governing Energy: The Boomers Have Left the Building

The data suggests that the Baby Boomers may have effectively left the industry already. If this premise is correct, current conventional wisdom regarding the Big Crew Change may find some companies unprepared for the Boomer’s Final Act. … Continue Reading
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Utility drones could inspect equipment, scan for outages

Utility drones could inspect equipment, scan for outages

$subtitles.get($x) Power companies across the United States are testing whether small drones can spot trouble on transmission lines or inspect equipment deep inside hard-to-reach power plant boilers. … Continue Reading http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/07/power-news-utility-drones-could-inspect-equipment-scan-for-outages.html?cmpid=EnlWeeklyPowerJuly102015&eid=288118515&bid=1117969

Karachi nuclear reactors: the environmental watchdog that did not bark

Karachi nuclear reactors: the environmental watchdog that did not bark



https://www.chinadialogue.net/article/show/single/en/8033-Karachi-nuclear-reactors-the-environmental-watchdog-that-did-not-bark

P5+1: A Victory for Russia and China

P5+1: A Victory for Russia and China



https://www.thetrumpet.com/article/12898.18.0.0/world/wmd/p51-a-victory-for-russia-and-china

The Best Stocks to Invest in Nuclear Power

The Best Stocks to Invest in Nuclear Power

While nuclear power may be struggling in the U.S., it's flourishing overseas. Find out which two stocks long-term investors should buy to profit from this long-term megatrend.



http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2015/07/10/the-best-stocks-to-invest-in-nuclear.aspx

China's Nuclear Comprador For Iran

China's Nuclear Comprador For Iran


http://www.forbes.com/sites/claudiarosett/2015/07/10/chinas-nuclear-compradore-for-iran/

We're headed for Titanic-like crash, climate talks hear

We're headed for Titanic-like crash, climate talks hear
Toronto, Canada (AFP) July 9, 2015 - The governor of California has likened the state of the planet to the Titanic in an attempt to drive home his growing fears about climate change. "A lot of people are asleep, they are on the Titanic and they drink champagne, while we are about to crash," Jerry Brown, whose state is struggling to cope with a historic drought that many blame on climate change, told the Climate Summit of the Am ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Were_headed_for_Titanic-like_crash_climate_talks_hear_999.html

Global trends show seabird populations dropped 70 percent since 1950s

Global trends show seabird populations dropped 70 percent since 1950s
Vancouver, Canada (SPX) Jul 10, 2015 - UBC research shows world's monitored seabird populations have dropped 70 per cent since the 1950s, a stark indication that marine ecosystems are not doing well. Michelle Paleczny, a UBC master's student and researcher with the Sea Around Us project, and co-authors compiled information on more than 500 seabird populations from around the world, representing 19 per cent of the global seabird ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Global_trends_show_seabird_populations_dropped_70_percent_since_1950s_999.html

Climate change puts squeeze on bumblebees

Climate change puts squeeze on bumblebees
Burlington VT (SPX) Jul 10, 2015 - Global warming is putting the squeeze on bumblebees. In the most comprehensive study ever conducted of the impacts of climate change on critical pollinators, scientists have discovered that global warming is rapidly shrinking the area where these bees are found in both North America and Europe. Researchers examined more than 420,000 historical and current records of many species of bumble ... morehttp://www.seeddaily.com/reports/Climate_change_puts_squeeze_on_bumblebees__999.html

Evidence from past suggests climate trends could yield 20-foot sea-level rise

Evidence from past suggests climate trends could yield 20-foot sea-level rise
Gainesville FL (SPX) Jul 10, 2015 - When past temperatures were similar to or slightly higher than the present global average, sea levels rose at least 20 feet, suggesting a similar outcome could be in store if current climate trends continue. Findings published in the journal Science showed that the seas rose in response to melting ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica, said lead author Andrea Dutton, a University of Flori ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Evidence_from_past_suggests_climate_trends_could_yield_20_foot_sea_level_rise_999.html

Preliminary findings positive for Swedish repository

Preliminary findings positive for Swedish repository

Svensk Kärnbränslehantering AB (SKB) submitted its application to build the country's first repository for used nuclear fuel, together with a plant to encapsulate the fuel prior to disposal, to Sweden's Radiation Safety Authority (Strålsäkerhetsmyndigheten, SSM) in March 2011.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/WR-Preliminary-findings-positive-for-Swedish-repository-2506154.html#.VYwumyDPmdE.linkedin

Putin, Zuma consider development of South African nuclear energy priority

Putin, Zuma consider development of South African nuclear energy priority
Moscow (Sputnik) Jul 09, 2015 - Russian President Vladimir Putin and South African President Jacob Zuma said that launching a program of development of South Africa's nuclear energy was a priority, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday. "As a priority the launch of a program of development of nuclear energy in the South African Republic," Peskov told journalists, adding that Russia has "serious potential" for ... morehttp://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Putin_Zuma_Consider_Development_of_South_African_Nuclear_Energy_Priority_999.html

Nuclear remains Spain's largest electricity supplier

Nuclear remains Spain's largest electricity supplier
Spain's seven nuclear power reactors generated 57.3 TWh of electricity in 2014, accounting for one-fifth of the country's electricity, according to figures compiled by trade association Foro Nuclear.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-Nuclear-remains-Spains-largest-electricity-supplier-1007154.html

Brattle Group study shows value of US nuclear industry

Brattle Group study shows value of US nuclear industry
A new study by economists at the Brattle Group has found that the nuclear industry contributes $60 billion per year to the USA's gross domestic product in addition to limiting carbon emissions and other economic and societal benefits.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/C-Brattle-Group-study-shows-value-of-US-nuclear-industry-1007157.html

Utilities Risk Losing Commercial Customers Without New Approach

Posted: 10 Jul 2015 02:30 AM PDT
In a fascinating study released late last month, Deloitte’s Center for Energy Solutions reported that 79 percent of the businesses it surveyed viewed cutting their electricity expenditures as “essential to creating and maintaining competitive advantage.”read morehttp://www.theenergycollective.com/djwamsted/2247179/utilities-risk-losing-commercial-customers-without-new-approach?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The+Energy+Collective+%28all+posts%29

Climate in the Arctic: Signs of Change, but Not Always!

Climate in the Arctic: Signs of Change, but Not Always!



http://www.theenergycollective.com/davidhone/2247834/signs-change-not-always?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The+Energy+Collective+%28all+posts%29

NRC Blog Update: Working Together — The Southern Exposure 2015 Exercise

Working Together — The Southern Exposure 2015 Exercise

Roger Hannah
Senior Public Affairs Officer
Region II

NRC officials participate in an exercise at the headquarters Op Center. The Op Center will be active during the upcoming Southern Exposure 2015 exercise.
NRC officials participate in an exercise at the headquarters Operations Center. The Operations Center will be active with officials participating during the upcoming Southern Exposure 2015 exercise.
Every year, NRC managers and staff members in headquarters and the agency’s four regions participate in nuclear power plant emergency exercises. The plants are required to exercise their plans every other year, and NRC response team members use these exercises to keep their skills sharp and to identify areas for improvement. The exercises provide valuable experience and make each plant’s overall emergency response program better.
State and local responders and the plant staff have a crucial role in each of those exercises, but many federal agencies that would be involved in an actual serious nuclear emergency rarely participate.
In a little more than a week, the NRC, along with state and local officials in South Carolina, Duke Energy, FEMA and the Department of Energy, will stage a full-scale exercise at the Robinson nuclear plant in South Carolina. It’s being called Southern Exposure 2015. This exercise will bring together not only the usual exercise participants, but also many other agencies that would have a role in a real event.
In addition to the NRC, FEMA and DOE, federal agencies participating include the Departments of Agriculture, Health and Human Services, Labor, the Interior, Transportation, Veterans Affairs and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Southern Exposure 2015 will begin on Tuesday, July 21, with activities much like the exercises the NRC regularly sees. On Wednesday, July 22, the NRC will be joined by those other federal agencies in a broad response to the simulated events at the Robinson plant. The NRC and the other federal agencies will work closely with state and local officials and Duke Energy’s plant operators and managers to achieve the objectives of the exercise.
Victor McCree, the Regional Administrator for Region II, will serve as the NRC’s Site Team Director for Southern Exposure 2015, leading the NRC team in South Carolina. The NRC will also support the exercise with staff in the regional office in Atlanta and headquarters in Rockville, Md.
While McCree has participated in countless exercises, he acknowledges this one is unique. It’s a rare opportunity, he said, to work with so many organizations across federal, state and local governments as well as the private sector.
People living and traveling near the Robinson plant during the exercise may hear and see actions associated with the simulated response. These could include response vehicles, field monitoring teams and low-flying aircraft, but the exercise should not affect normal traffic or other activities in the area.
While the likelihood of a severe nuclear accident in this country is low, the Southern Exposure 2015 exercise is designed to allow all the organizations involved, federal, state and local, to address the simulated accident’s effects on the economy, environment and public health – and be better prepared to respond if the events were real.

Kyushu Electric finishes loading fuel into nuclear reactor



Kyushu Electric finishes loading fuel into nuclear reactor

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/07/10/national/kyushu-electric-finishes-loading-fuel-nuclear-reactor/#.VaAhoPnlxbJ 

Rosatom Eyes 30 Foreign Nuclear Unit Construction Sites in Near Future

Rosatom Eyes 30 Foreign Nuclear Unit Construction Sites in Near Future


http://sputniknews.com/world/20150710/1024447768.html

IAEA Bullish On Long-Term Role For Nuclear, Report Shows

IAEA Bullish On Long-Term Role For Nuclear, Report Shows



http://www.nucnet.org/all-the-news/2015/07/10/iaea-bullish-on-long-term-role-for-nuclear-report-shows

Slow N-screenings pass just 5 reactors

Slow N-screenings pass just 5 reactors



http://the-japan-news.com/news/article/0002276652

Environmentalists, company, duel over earthquake safety at California's Diablo Canyon reactors

Environmentalists, company, duel over earthquake safety at California's Diablo Canyon reactors



http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/26d4ba46b55f4c4c87d7f6d243cb5dfa/CA--Nuclear-Reactors-Earthquakes

Vermont Yankee: Three parties granted motion to intervene


Vermont Yankee: Three parties granted motion to intervene



http://www.reformer.com/latestnews/ci_28458325/vermont-yankee-three-parties-granted-motion-intervene

Letter: Palisades confident that reactor vessel meets NRC requirements

Letter: Palisades confident that reactor vessel meets NRC requirements



http://www.mlive.com/opinion/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2015/07/letter_palisades_confident_tha.html

ANS Update: Friday Nuclear Matinee – Race for Atomic Power

Friday Nuclear Matinee – Race for Atomic Power

By Will Davis on Jul 10, 2015 10:51 am

This week’s feature is a half hour documentary on the history of the National Reactor Testing Station, or NRTS (now part of Idaho National Laboratory) which has seen 52 different Continue Reading →
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share on Twitter Like Friday Nuclear Matinee – Race for Atomic Power on Facebook

Opinion | Letters Let’s do this right

Let’s do this right


http://www.timesargus.com/article/20150710/OPINION02/707109941

License Renewal Hearings Spark Debate Over the Future of Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant

License Renewal Hearings Spark Debate Over the Future of Diablo Canyon Nuclear Plant



http://www.kqed.org/a/forum/R201507100900

Nuclear regulators OK power sale

Nuclear regulators OK power sale

http://www.reflector.com/daily-reflector/nrc-approves-license-transfer-ncempa-sale-2929915

SA and Russia sign energy agreements

SA and Russia sign energy agreements



http://www.cbn.co.za/services/power-solutions-energy-efficiency/item/3190-sa-and-russia-sign-energy-agreements

S. Africa, Russia enhance nuclear cooperation


 http://www.shanghaidaily.com/article/article_xinhua.aspx?id=291734

Kyushu Electric Starts Refueling of Nuclear Reactor, Moves Closer to Restart, an Industrial Info News Alert

Kyushu Electric Starts Refueling of Nuclear Reactor, Moves Closer to Restart, an Industrial Info News Alert



http://www.powerengineeringint.com/marketwired/2015/07/9/kyushu-electric-starts-refueling-of-nuclear-reactor-moves-closer-to-restart-an-industrial-info-new.html

Weinstein: Allow private facilities to store used nuclear fuel

Weinstein: Allow private facilities to store used nuclear fuel


http://www.houstonchronicle.com/opinion/outlook/article/Weinstein-Allow-private-facilities-to-store-used-6376198.php

Nuclear Is Not Dead, Uranium Supply Deficit Could Be On The Horizon

Nuclear Is Not Dead, Uranium Supply Deficit Could Be On The Horizon



http://oilprice.com/Alternative-Energy/Nuclear-Power/Nuclear-Is-Not-Dead-Uranium-Supply-Deficit-Could-Be-On-The-Horizon.html

Areva aware 'as early as 2006' of serious fault in nuclear reactor destined for UK

Areva aware 'as early as 2006' of serious fault in nuclear reactor destined for UK

French state-owned nuclear giant Areva has been aware for almost a decade of critical anomalies in its new generation EPR plant in Flamanville, the same model sold to Britain



http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/earth/energy/nuclearpower/11727000/Areva-aware-as-early-as-2006-of-serious-fault-in-nuclear-reactor-destined-for-UK.html

Evacuation Plans Limited for Towns Around Local Nuclear Power Plants

Evacuation Plans Limited for Towns Around Local Nuclear Power Plants



http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/investigations/Evacuation-Plans-Limited-for-Towns-Around-Local-Nuclear-Power-Plants-312899421.html

A Radical Vatican? By Naomi Klein

A Radical Vatican?

By



http://www.newyorker.com/news/news-desk/a-visit-to-the-vatican?%20mbid=nl_071015_Daily&CNDID=20985530&mbid=nl_071015_Daily&CNDID=20985530&spMailingID=7895017&spUserID=Nzk3OTExODQwMDIS1&spJobID=721271857&spReportId=NzIxMjcxODU3S0

Note from Editor of Utility Dive

Dear readers,

What's it like to actually go off the grid?

New advancements in distributed energy have made it easier than ever for consumers to reduce and hypothetically even eliminate their need for the centralized electric system, sparking concern and debate throughout the industry. But while the policy battles and corporate rivalries in distributed energy get coverage, less attention is paid to how these technologies are impacting everyday people on the ground.

Utility Dive's new series, "Diary of a Grid Defector," hopes to change that. Each month, Utility Dive writer Robert Walton will report on his adventures setting up an off-grid cabin and exploring developments in distributed energy in upstate New York. We hope his experiences will give our readers an insightful, first-hand look at what life is like at the edge of the electricity system—and how the revolution in distributed energy technologies is changing it. You can find the first installment in today's edition of Utility Dive.

We would love to hear your feedback. Did you find Robert's dispatch interesting? Useful? Or maybe you simply have a tip for his new, off-grid lifestyle. Whatever it may be, send us an email at utility.dive.editors@industrydive.com .

As always, thank you for relying on Utility Dive to keep you up to date on the latest developments in the electric power industry. Have a great Friday and a lovely weekend.

Gavin Bade
Editor, Utility Dive
Twitter | E-mail

Thursday, July 9, 2015

How to engage the population with climate change? Frame it as a public health issue

How to engage the population with climate change? Frame it as a public health issue


http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/07/150709092957.htm

California Utilities on Data Sharing: Yes, No, and Let’s Talk About It


California Utilities on Data Sharing: Yes, No, and Let’s Talk About It

California Utilities on Data Sharing: Yes, No, and Let’s Talk About It

Utilities will share some info that companies want. But they’re holding back on real-time, sensitive grid data.


http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/california-utilities-on-data-sharing-yes-no-and-lets-talk-about-it

Rising fossil fuel energy costs spell trouble for global food security

Rising fossil fuel energy costs spell trouble for global food security
Corvallis OR (SPX) Jul 07, 2015 - Ongoing efforts to feed a growing global population are threatened by rising fossil-fuel energy costs and breakdowns in transportation infrastructure. Without new ways to preserve, store, and transport food products, the likelihood of shortages looms in the future. In an analysis of food preservation and transportation trends published in this week's issue of the journal BioScience, scient ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Record_breaking_heavy_rainfall_events_increased_under_global_warming_999.html

The Future of Gas-Fired Generation in North America

The Future of Gas-Fired Generation in North America



http://www.power-eng.com/articles/print/volume-119/issue-7/features/the-future-of-gas-fired-generation-in-north-america.html

Irradiation testing to begin on metallic nuclear fuel

Irradiation testing to begin on metallic nuclear fuel



http://www.power-eng.com/articles/2015/07/irradiation-testing-to-begin-on-metallic-nuclear-fuel.html

Breast Cancer Deaths Near Bradwell Nuclear Power Station, Essex, UK, 1995 to 2001

Breast Cancer Deaths Near Bradwell Nuclear Power Station, Essex, UK, 1995 to 2001


https://miningawareness.wordpress.com/2015/07/09/breast-cancer-deaths-near-bradwell-nuclear-power-station-essex-uk-1995-to-2001/

Noose Tightening On Coal Industry

Noose Tightening On Coal Industry



http://oilprice.com/Energy/Coal/Noose-Tightening-On-Coal-Industry.html

Dirty Energy vs. Clean Power The Past Battles the Future at Seneca Lake

Dirty Energy vs. Clean Power
The Past Battles the Future at Seneca Lake
By Ellen Cantarow
Let’s amend the famous line from Joni Mitchell’s “Yellow Taxi” to fit this moment in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. There, Big Energy seems determined to turn paradise, if not into a parking lot, then into a massive storage area for fracked natural gas. But there’s one way in which that song doesn’t quite match reality. Mitchell famously wrote, “Don't it always seem to go that you don't know what you've got till it's gone.” As part of a growing global struggle between Big Energy and a movement focused on creating a fossil-fuel-free future, however, the residents of the Finger Lakes seem to know just what they’ve got and they’re determined not to let it go. As a result, a local struggle against a corporation determined to bring in those fracked fuels catches a changing mood not just in the United States but across the world when it comes to protecting the planet, one place at a time, if necessary.
It’s difficult to imagine a more picturesque landscape, a more tranquil locale, a more bucolic garden spot than the Finger Lakes region. Each year, it draws tens of thousands of tourists to gaze at the waterfalls in Watkins Glen, to kayak and canoe in its deep waters, to dine in its farm-to-table restaurants and enjoy the homespun hospitality of its bed and breakfasts. Lush vineyards rustle on tree-studded hillsides. Wine Enthusiast magazine gave it top honors last year, calling it “one of the most vibrant and promising wine regions of the world.” There are fruit and vegetable farms and sugar maples, too. In 2013, the state’s maple syrup production ranked second only to Vermont’s.
The eleven Finger Lakes are among the wonders of the natural world. At 38 miles in length, Seneca Lake is the second longest of them, its 4.2 trillion gallons of water provide drinking water for 100,000 people. Its shallows are home to warm-water fish like smallmouth bass and yellow perch. Its deep waters play host to lake trout and Atlantic salmon and have created a unique microclimate in the surrounding region, neither too cold in winter nor too warm in summer, allowing agriculture to flourish.
Perhaps inspired by the ecological marvel that is their home, many of the Finger Lakes vineyards and vegetable farms rely on sustainable production methods. At the same time, wineries, hundreds of businesses, and individual families have begun converting from the use of fossil fuels to alternative energies. Tompkins County, adjacent to Seneca Lake, has even developed a solar energy program that has inspired similar efforts in counties across the state. A regional wind farm is scheduled to start operating in 2016. Clean and green seems to be the ethos of the region, but all that could change fast -- and soon.
Click here to read more of this dispatch.http://www.tomdispatch.com/post/176021/tomgram%3A_ellen_cantarow%2C_paradise_lost_--_or_found/#more

Global powers to up pressure on Iran for nuclear deal

Global powers to up pressure on Iran for nuclear deal
Vienna (AFP) July 8, 2015 - European ministers were flying back to Vienna late Wednesday aiming to up the pressure on Iran to end a standoff over a nuclear deal in time to send it to US lawmakers. German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier arrived ahead of his French and British counterparts, Laurent Fabius and Philip Hammond, who were also due to return to the Austrian capital during the night. In a high-stak ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Global_powers_to_up_pressure_on_Iran_for_nuclear_deal_999.html

In Tehran, frustration overcomes hope for nuclear deal
Tehran (AFP) July 8, 2015 - Hope among Iranians for a lasting deal over their country's nuclear programme gave way to frustration Wednesday as negotiations with world powers overran yet another deadline to seal a final accord. The deal, which has been under negotiation for over 20 months, was originally meant to be struck by July 1. But the deadline has been extended twice, and marathon discussions in Vienna are expect ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/In_Tehran_frustration_overcomes_hope_for_nuclear_deal_999.html

Coal Production Using Mountaintop Removal Mining Decreases by 62% Since 2008

Posted: 09 Jul 2015 04:00 AM PDT
Coal production from mines with mountaintop removal permits has declined since 2008, more than the downward trend in total U.S. coal production. Production decreased about 15% from 2008 to 2014. Surface production decreased about 21%, and mountaintop removal decreased 62% over this period.read morehttp://www.theenergycollective.com/todayinenergy/2247165/coal-production-using-mountaintop-removal-mining-decreases-62-2008

Record-breaking heavy rainfall events increased under global warming

Record-breaking heavy rainfall events increased under global warming
Potsdam, Germany (SPX) Jul 09, 2015 - Heavy rainfall events setting ever new records have been increasing strikingly in the past thirty years. While before 1980, multi-decadal fluctuations in extreme rainfall events are explained by natural variability, a team of scientists of the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research detected a clear upward trend in the past few decades towards more unprecedented daily rainfall events. ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Record_breaking_heavy_rainfall_events_increased_under_global_warming_999.html

Volcanic eruptions are important for world climate

SHAKE AND BLOW
Volcanic eruptions are important for world climate
Copenhagen, Denmark (SPX) Jul 09, 2015 - Large volcanic eruptions release huge clouds of ash and acid into the atmosphere. These clouds spread across the globe and block out the Sun, resulting in a colder climate for decades afterwards. Climate researchers have known this for a long time, but new research from the Niels Bohr Institute shows that the effects of volcanic eruptions are greater than previously thought and that they have in ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Volcanic_eruptions_are_important_for_world_climate_999.html

Volcanic eruptions that changed human history
Reno NV (SPX) Jul 09, 2015 - It is well known that large volcanic eruptions contribute to climate variability. However, quantifying these contributions has proven challenging due to inconsistencies in both historic atmospheric data observed in ice cores and corresponding temperature variations seen in climate proxies such as tree rings. Published in the journal Nature, a new study led by scientists from the Desert Res ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Volcanic_eruptions_that_changed_human_history_999.html

Timeline links volcanic eruptions to centuries of cold temp extremes
New Haven CT (SPX) Jul 09, 2015 - A new study reorders the timing and reveals the climate impact of nearly 300 major volcanic eruptions worldwide, dating back to the early Roman period. The analysis, published in the journal Nature, resolves longstanding inconsistencies between historic atmospheric sulfate data taken from ice cores and corresponding temperature data derived from tree rings and other sources. The new chrono ... more  http://www.terradaily.com/reports/New_timeline_links_volcanic_eruptions_to_centuries_of_cold_temperature_extremes_999.html

Siting agreement amended for US deconversion plant

Siting agreement amended for US deconversion plant
International Isotopes has amended its project participation agreement with New Mexico's Lea County to reflect the delay in constructing its planned facility to deconvert depleted uranium hexafluoride.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/WR-Siting-agreement-amended-for-US-deconversion-plant-0907154.html

Russia completes design papers for Fukushima tritium removal

Russia completes design papers for Fukushima tritium removal
Russia's Atomproekt has completed the draft design and working documents for a demonstration unit to separate tritium from contaminated water at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan. Construction of the facility is expected to start early next year.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/RS-Russia-completes-design-papers-for-tritium-removal-at-Fukushima-09071501.html

Battle heats up over U.S. plutonium cleanup program

Battle heats up over U.S. plutonium cleanup program



http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/07/07/usa-russia-plutonium-idUSL1N0ZM1IA20150707

Amid accounting probe, Toshiba may sell Westinghouse shares: sources


Amid accounting probe, Toshiba may sell Westinghouse shares: sources


http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/07/09/us-toshiba-accounting-divestiture-idUSKCN0PI2UA20150709

Using LCOE To Find The Cheapest Energy Mix For America

Using LCOE To Find The Cheapest Energy Mix For America


http://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesconca/2015/07/09/using-lcoe-to-find-the-cheapest-energy-mix-for-america/

Report: Losing Nuclear Would Blight Economy


Report: Losing Nuclear Would Blight Economy

http://www.powermag.com/report-losing-nuclear-would-blight-economy/?hq_e=el&hq_m=3110890&hq_l=9&hq_v=30108e0773

Fukushima Update 7/9/15

Fukushima Update 7/9/15

Fuel load inside Sendai unit #1 began on Tuesday… Protesters at Sendai and in Tokyo want the fuel loading to stop… An industry minister says Nahara resident’s radiation concerns are a “psychological issue”… Tokyo lawmakers propose reconsideration of the 40-year lifetime rule for nukes… The NRA chair says slow, careful nuclear restart screenings will continue… Tepco says it will deploy water cannons for emergency use at Kashiwazaki-Kariwa station… Russia will build a new water treatment system to remove Tritium from already-treated F. Daiichi wastewaters.

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

S.Africa, Russia sign agreements on nuclear power cooperation at BRICS meeting

S.Africa, Russia sign agreements on nuclear power cooperation at BRICS meeting


http://af.reuters.com/article/energyOilNews/idAFL8N0ZO4IQ20150708

Should Nuclear Energy Try To Fight The Natural Gas Craze?

Should Nuclear Energy Try To Fight The Natural Gas Craze?


http://www.forbes.com/sites/kensilverstein/2015/07/08/should-nuclear-energy-try-to-fight-the-natural-gas-craze/

The next-gen nuclear workforce pipeline


The next-gen nuclear workforce pipeline

http://www.fierceenergy.com/story/next-gen-nuclear-workforce-pipeline/2015-07-07

The Nuclear Operations and Maintenance Efficiency Summit USA 2015 (Charlotte NC, 16th-17th November).

Hi Michele,
I saw you downloaded the nuclear obsolescence article I sent across last week – what do you think?
With over 20% of parts in NPP’s obsolete, the industry is struggling to replace key components which leads to rising costs and extended outages. With this in mind it is a key area to be discussed at The Nuclear Operations and Maintenance Efficiency Summit USA 2015 (Charlotte NC, 16th-17th November).
To find out how the meeting can improve your O&M strategy and ensure long term operational efficiency take a look at the full program here
This is the US’ only meeting to provide you with the opportunity to:
  • Reduce the impact of obsolescence within ageing nuclear plants through application of proactive obsolescence management and I&C replacement processes.
  • Hear top level speakers from Exelon, First Energy, Xcel Energy and more discuss methods of improving operational efficiency through strategic developments in inventory management, knowledge management and human performance procedures
  • Put forward and evaluate your solutions to major O&M challenges facing the industry in interactive panel discussions, Q&A sessions and over 10 hours of networking opportunities, alongside 120+ industry experts.
If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to let me know.
Many thanks,
John
John Furness
Senior Industry Analyst
Nuclear Energy Insider
+44 (0)207 375 7528
JFurness@nuclearenergyinsider.com

If China loses control, look out oil: Dan Yergin

If China loses control, look out oil: Dan Yergin


http://www.cnbc.com/id/102817605

China, the US, and the geopolitics of energy

China, the US, and the geopolitics of energy


http://www.aei.org/publication/china-the-us-and-the-geopolitics-of-energy/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=blumenthalchinaenergy

Vogtle Units 3 and 4 Construction Video Update

Vogtle Units 3 and 4 Construction Video Update



http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2015/07/08/vogtle-units-3-and-4-construction-video-update.aspx#.VZ5iHfnlxbI

Areva unit unveils used nuclear fuel storage and transport systems

Areva unit unveils used nuclear fuel storage and transport systems



http://www.power-eng.com/articles/2015/07/areva-unit-unveils-used-nuclear-fuel-storage-and-transport-systems.html

Are The E.U. And Asia Turning A Blind Eye To Russian Sanctions?

Are The E.U. And Asia Turning A Blind Eye To Russian Sanctions?



http://oilprice.com/Energy/Crude-Oil/Are-The-EU-And-Asia-Turning-A-Blind-Eye-To-Russian-Sanctions.html

Kazakhstan to supply India with 5,000 tonnes of uranium

Kazakhstan to supply India with 5,000 tonnes of uranium

http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Kazakhstan_to_supply_India_with_5000_tonnes_of_uranium_999.html

Japan increases limits on radiation exposure before nuke reactors restart

Japan increases limits on radiation exposure before nuke reactors restart
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Japan_Increases_Limits_on_Radiation_Exposure_Before_Nuke_Reactors_Restart_999.html

Russia Prepares Technology Details For Tritium Removal At Fukushima

Russia Prepares Technology Details For Tritium Removal At Fukushima



http://nuclearstreet.com/pro_nuclear_power_blogs/b/nucnet-communications/archive/2015/07/09/russia-prepares-technology-details-for-tritium-removal-at-fukushima.aspx

Feds to decide whether state’s last nuclear plant stays or goes


Feds to decide whether state’s last nuclear plant stays or goes



http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Feds-to-decide-whether-state-s-last-nuclear-6371664.php

EDF takeover could hit Areva order book: parliament report

EDF takeover could hit Areva order book: parliament report


http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/07/08/us-areva-m-a-edf-idUKKCN0PI0H520150708

Report: Nuclear plants significant to Arizona, US economies

Report: Nuclear plants significant to Arizona, US economies



http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/blog/energy-inc/2015/07/report-nuclear-plants-significant-to-arizona-us.html

IAEA Director General Amano Welcomes Italian, Turkish Ratification of Nuclear Security Amendment

IAEA Director General Amano Welcomes Italian, Turkish Ratification of Nuclear Security Amendment

In meetings today with IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano, the Ambassadors to the IAEA of Turkey and Italy, Ms Emine Birnur Fertekligil (left) and Mr Filippo Formica (right), delivered their countries’ instruments of ratification to the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material. (Photo D. Calma/IAEA)
IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano welcomed ratification by Italy and Turkey of the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM), calling it a key step towards reducing the risk of nuclear terrorism.
In meetings today with Director General Amano, the Ambassadors to the IAEA of Italy and Turkey, H.E. Mr Filippo Formica and H.E. Ms Emine Birnur Fertekligil, delivered their countries’ instruments of ratification. The IAEA Director General is the depositary of the Amendment, which was adopted a decade ago today but has yet to enter into force because not enough countries have become parties to it.
I encourage all countries to help strengthen nuclear security by adhering to this important Amendment... Bringing this vital instrument into force is finally within our grasp.
— IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano
“The Amendment to the CPPNM is the most important area of unfinished business in global nuclear security,” Mr Amano said. “Today’s ratification of the Amendment by Italy and Turkey brings this vital tool a step closer to coming into force.”
Two-thirds of the current 151 States Parties to the Convention must adhere to the Amendment for it to enter into force. Adherence by 15 more States Parties is still needed for that to take place. In June, the United States passed legislation to implement the Amendment but has yet to deposit its instrument of ratification. Other States Parties are also in the final stages of ratification and the IAEA is making every effort to facilitate the process.
“The Amendment would reduce the likelihood of terrorists being able to detonate a dirty bomb in a major city,” Mr Amano said. “It would also reduce the risk of a terrorist attack on a nuclear power plant that could create a massive release of radioactivity.”
The CPPNM, the only legally binding international undertaking in the area of physical protection of nuclear material, entered into force in 1987. One of 19 international counter-terrorism instruments, it focuses on the physical protection of nuclear material used for peaceful purposes during international transport.
However, the CPPNM doesn’t cover the physical protection of nuclear material in peaceful domestic use, storage or transport—or the physical protection of nuclear facilities. In 2005, the States Parties to the Convention adopted the Amendment which broadens its scope.
In addition to the obligations in the CPPNM regarding nuclear material during international transport, the Amendment makes it legally binding on States Parties to protect nuclear facilities used for peaceful purposes and nuclear material used for peaceful purposes in domestic use, storage and transport. It also provides for expanded cooperation among States on rapid measures to locate and recover stolen or smuggled nuclear material, to mitigate any radiological consequences of sabotage, and to prevent and combat related offences.
The IAEA General Conference, held every September, has called on all States Parties to the CPPNM to adhere to the Amendment as soon as possible—a message echoed by Mr Amano today.
“I encourage all countries to help strengthen nuclear security by adhering to this important Amendment,” the IAEA Director General said. “A 10-year delay is too long. Bringing this vital instrument into force is finally within our grasp.”https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/news/iaea-director-general-amano-welcomes-italian-turkish-ratification-nuclear-security-amendment