Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Saturday, January 16, 2016

Too Many "Think Tanks" Are Just Kool-Aid Fueled Group-Think

 

Too Many "Think Tanks" Are Just Kool-Aid Fueled Group-Think

http://www.zerohedge.com/news/2016-01-16/too-many-think-tanks-are-just-kool-aid-fueled-group-think

Europeans ask Russia to develop nuclear weapon against asteroids

EuropeEuropeans ask Russia to develop nuclear weapon against asteroids  ans ask Russia to develop nuclear weapon against asteroids

More:
http://tass.ru/en/science/850092

Europeans ask Russia to develop nuclear weapon against asteroids

More:
http://tass.ru/en/science/85009
http://tass.ru/en/science/850092

Should you be afraid of cyberattacks on nuclear power plants?

Should you be afraid of cyberattacks on nuclear power plants?


https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-switch/wp/2016/01/15/should-you-be-afraid-of-cyberattacks-on-nuclear-power-plants/

Indian Point files suit against state over certificate


Indian Point files suit against state over certificate

http://www.lohud.com/story/news/local/indian-point/2016/01/15/1-15-2016-indian-point-suit-new-york/78863880/

Renewables Attracted Record $329BN of Investment in 2015 - Renewable Energy World

Renewables Attracted Record $329BN of Investment in 2015 - Renewable Energy World

Renewables Attracted Record $329BN of Investment in 2015

Renewables Attracted Record $329BN of Investment in 2015

Jessica Shankleman
January 14, 2016 | Post Your Comment
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The slump in oil prices that’s brought upheaval and cost-cutting to the traditional energy industry spared renewables such as solar and wind, which raked in a record $329.3 billion of investm Full Article http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/articles/2016/01/as-oil-crashed-renewables-attracted-record-329-billion.html?cmpid=renewablesolar01162016&eid=288118515&bid=1278728

Geeks are the New Guardians of Our Civil Liberties | MIT Technology Review

Geeks are the New Guardians of Our Civil Liberties | MIT Technology Review

Streetbook | MIT Technology Review

Streetbook | MIT Technology Review

Taiwan elects first female president, who vows to defend island’s sovereignty - The Washington Post

Taiwan elects first female president, who vows to defend island’s sovereignty - The Washington Post

This young prince could be the next Saudi king - The Washington Post

This young prince could be the next Saudi king - The Washington Post

Brazilians panic as mosquito-borne virus is linked to brain damage in thousands of babies - The Washington Post

Brazilians panic as mosquito-borne virus is linked to brain damage in thousands of babies - The Washington Post

Friday, January 15, 2016

Obama administration will announce halt on new coal leases


Obama administration will announce halt on new coal leases

http://fuelfix.com/blog/2016/01/14/obama-administration-will-announce-halt-on-new-coal-leases/

Proof of concept achieved for sealed source radwaste disposal method


Proof of concept achieved for sealed source radwaste disposal method

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has announced that successful tests of a "promising technology" for moving and storing low-level radioactive sealed sources are "paving the way" for a new disposal method for dealing with small volumes of radioactive waste around the world. The proof of concept for the technology was tested in Croatia late last year without the use of actual radioactive material, the IAEA said on 11 January.

http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/WR-Proof-of-concept-achieved-for-sealed-source-radwaste-disposal-method-15011601.html

CNNC to construct prototype floating plant

CNNC to construct prototype floating plant
A demonstration floating nuclear power plant based on China National Nuclear Corporation's ACP100S small reactor will be built by 2019, the company announced today. The move comes just days after China General Nuclear said it will build a prototype offshore plant by 2020.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-CNNC-to-construct-prototype-floating-plant-1501164.html

House Bill Directs DOE to Collaborate With Advanced Reactor Developers

House Bill Directs DOE to Collaborate With Advanced Reactor Developers


http://www.nei.org/News-Media/News/News-Archives/House-Bill-Directs-DOE-to-Collaborate-With-Advance

Extended Power Uprate Project Completed at Peach Bottom Nuclear Plant

Extended Power Uprate Project Completed at Peach Bottom Nuclear Plant


http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pe/2016/01/extended-power-uprate-project-completed-at-peach-bottom-nuclear-plant.html

Georgia Power CEO stresses significance of Plant Vogtle expansion


Georgia Power CEO stresses significance of Plant Vogtle expansion

http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/metro/2016-01-14/georgia-power-ceo-stresses-significance-plant-vogtle-expansion

Wisconsin Assembly Approves Bill To Lift Nuclear Construction Barriers - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Wisconsin Assembly Approves Bill To Lift Nuclear Construction Barriers - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Duxbury: Many Questions Surrounding Pilgrim Nuclear Power Plant Closure, Presentation Tonight

Duxbury: Many Questions Surrounding Pilgrim Nuclear Power Plant Closure, Presentation Tonight

Energy Department Announces New Investments in Advanced Nuclear Power Reactors to Help Meet America’s Carbon Emission Reduction Goal

Energy Department Announces New Investments in Advanced Nuclear Power Reactors to Help Meet America’s Carbon Emission Reduction Goal

January 15, 2016 - 9:01am
WASHINGTON – In support of the Administration’s goal to produce more carbon-free energy, today the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the selection of two companies, X-energy and Southern Company, to further develop advanced nuclear reactor designs. These awards, with a multi-year cost share of up to $80 million for both companies, will support work to address key technical challenges to the design, construction, and operation of next generation nuclear reactors.
“In order to ensure that nuclear energy remains a key source for US electricity generation well into the future, it is critically important that we invest in these technologies today,” said Secretary Moniz. “Public-private partnerships to develop advanced nuclear capabilities will enable low-carbon nuclear energy to power America for years to come.”
Nuclear power is a critical energy source that provides almost 20 percent of the electricity generated in the United States, and over 60 percent of the nation’s carbon free electricity. These awards provide an example of the public-private partnerships envisioned under the recently launched Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) initiative. Announced at the White House last fall, GAIN provides the nuclear energy community with access to the technical, regulatory, and financial support necessary to accelerate the commercialization of advanced nuclear energy systems.
Following a competitive process, DOE will fund cost-shared research and development activities with industry to support these two companies with performance-based advanced reactor concepts for further development in the areas of safety, operations, and economics. The projects announced today will allow industry led teams, which include participants from universities and national laboratories, to further nuclear energy technology, and will enable companies to further develop their advanced reactor designs with potential for demonstration in the 2035 timeframe. Initially, DOE’s investment will be $6 million for each project and both companies will provide cost-share. The possible multi-year cost-share value for this research is up to $80 million.
The two advanced nuclear power projects receiving awards today are:
  • X-energy – partnering with BWX Technology, Oregon State University, Teledyne-Brown Engineering, SGL Group, Idaho National Laboratory, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory to solve design and fuel development challenges of the Xe-100 Pebble Bed Advanced Reactor.  This type of reactor has next generation design and the most advanced safety features and it is also smaller than traditional nuclear reactors.  These factors would potentially enable such a reactor to serve a wider array of communities – particularly densely populated areas – while ensuring public safety.
  • Southern Company Services – partnering with TerraPower, Electric Power Research Institute, Vanderbilt University, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory to perform integrated effects tests and materials suitability studies to support development of the Molten Chloride Fast Reactor.  The MCFR is also a next generation design with the most advanced safety features that enable its potential use across the country.
Find more information about the Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Energy visit: http://www.energy.gov/ne/office-nuclear-energy

Report highlights Washington's potential for nuclear power


Report highlights Washington's potential for nuclear power


http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/Report-highlights-Washington-s-potential-for-6758928.php

Chinese nuclear company plans marine reactor by 2020

Chinese nuclear company plans marine reactor by 2020 - See more at: http://news.asiaone.com/news/asia/chinese-nuclear-company-plans-marine-reactor-2020#sthash.70CEYPP3.dpuf
Chinese nuclear company plans marine reactor by 2020 

http://news.asiaone.com/news/asia/chinese-nuclear-company-plans-marine-reactor-2020

China's CNOOC and CGN to cooperate on offshore oil, nuclear power

China's CNOOC and CGN to cooperate on offshore oil, nuclear power


http://www.reuters.com/article/china-cnooc-nuclear-idUSL3N14Z1R7

Nuclear Power Plants from All Over the World Are Vulnerable to Cyberattacks


Nuclear Power Plants from All Over the World Are Vulnerable to Cyberattacks

http://news.softpedia.com/news/nuclear-power-plants-from-all-over-the-world-are-vulnerable-to-cyberattacks-498955.shtml

DOE Funds Advanced Pebble-Bed and Molten-Salt Nuclear Reactor Development

DOE Funds Advanced Pebble-Bed and Molten-Salt Nuclear Reactor Development


http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/DOE-Funds-Advanced-Pebble-Bed-and-Molten-Salt-Nuclear-Reactor-Development

ANS Nuclear Cafe Update: Friday Nuclear Matinee- Meet ANS Member Sam Brinton

Friday Nuclear Matinee- Meet ANS Member Sam Brinton

By ansnuclearcafe on Jan 15, 2016 09:08 am

ANS member Sam Brinton talks about his passion, nuclear waste policy and changing the outdated images of nuclear advocates. http://archive.thenewsstar.com/videonetwork/4692183524001/One-Nation-Sam-Brinton
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New Report and Maps: Rising Seas Threaten Land Home to Half a Billion -

New Report and Maps: Rising Seas Threaten Land Home to Half a Billion - See more at: http://sealevel.climatecentral.org/news/global-mapping-choices#sthash.DV1Tcb9B.dpuf
New Report and Maps: Rising Seas Threaten Land Home to Half a Billion
http://sealevel.climatecentral.org/news/global-mapping-choices

Thursday, January 14, 2016

Nuclear Weapons 185 - U.S. Pentagon Planning for the Use of Nuclear Weapons | Nucleotidings

Nuclear Weapons 185 - U.S. Pentagon Planning for the Use of Nuclear Weapons | Nucleotidings

Obama Touts Costly Green Energy As Wave Of The Future | The Daily Caller

Obama Touts Costly Green Energy As Wave Of The Future | The Daily Caller

There is a new form of climate denialism to look out for – so don't celebrate yet | Naomi Oreskes | Opinion | The Guardian

There is a new form of climate denialism to look out for – so don't celebrate yet | Naomi Oreskes | Opinion | The Guardian

Reliable partnership between natural gas and renewable energy - Atomic Insights

Reliable partnership between natural gas and renewable energy - Atomic Insights

Another 6.7 Earthquake Warns that Japan is No Place for Nuclear | Mining Awareness Plus

Another 6.7 Earthquake Warns that Japan is No Place for Nuclear | Mining Awareness Plus

Cheap Oil Means the State of the Union Is … Not Great | Foreign Policy

Cheap Oil Means the State of the Union Is … Not Great | Foreign Policy

Will the U.S. Government Stop Selling Fossil Fuels? - Scientific American

Will the U.S. Government Stop Selling Fossil Fuels? - Scientific American

$380 Billion In Upstream Projects Delayed As Oil Keeps Tanking | OilPrice.com

$380 Billion In Upstream Projects Delayed As Oil Keeps Tanking | OilPrice.com

Forget $20 - Oil Prices At $8 Per Barrel In Canada | OilPrice.com

Forget $20 - Oil Prices At $8 Per Barrel In Canada | OilPrice.com

20 Nations’ Nuclear Facilities Said to Be Vulnerable to Cyberattack - The New York Times

20 Nations’ Nuclear Facilities Said to Be Vulnerable to Cyberattack - The New York Times

Press Release-16-003: NRC Co-Sponsoring Workshop Feb. 2-4 at NIST in Gaithersburg, Md., on Using Robot Technologies at Nuclear Power Plants. - ML16014A166.pdf

Press Release-16-003: NRC Co-Sponsoring Workshop Feb. 2-4 at NIST in Gaithersburg, Md., on Using Robot Technologies at Nuclear Power Plants. - ML16014A166.pdf

Warming May Mean Major Thaw for Alaskan Permafrost

Warming May Mean Major Thaw for Alaskan Permafrost


http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/warming-may-mean-major-thaw-for-alaskan-permafrost/

Is this the end of Moscow-Ankara nuclear cooperation?

Is this the end of Moscow-Ankara nuclear cooperation?


http://thebulletin.org/end-moscow-ankara-nuclear-cooperation9059

Russian equipment plays vital role in ITER's thermonuclear reactor | Russia Beyond the Headlines

Russian equipment plays vital role in ITER's thermonuclear reactor | Russia Beyond the Headlines

Facing increasing electricity demand, China struggles with vexing nuclear energy choice

Facing increasing electricity demand, China struggles with vexing nuclear energy choice


http://www.dailyjournal.net/view/story/29c0f3b6d5724a1998f3ab6ed2846bd6/US--China-Nuclear-Waste

Expert: nuclear submarine can deter U.S. from using nuclear strike against China first - China Military Online

Expert: nuclear submarine can deter U.S. from using nuclear strike against China first - China Military Online

US House advances tighter sanctions on North Korea

US House advances tighter sanctions on North Korea Washington (AFP) Jan 12, 2016 - US lawmakers voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to impose stricter economic sanctions on North Korea, seeking to punish the rebellious Asian nation for its latest test of a nuclear bomb last week. By a nearly unanimous vote of 418 to 2, the House of Representatives passed the North Korea Sanctions Enforcement Act, which would heap additional financial pressure on the already-sanctioned hermit regi ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_House_advances_tighter_sanctions_on_North_Korea_999.html

Iran expects nuclear deal implementation by Sunday: official

Iran expects nuclear deal implementation by Sunday: official Tehran (AFP) Jan 13, 2016 - The final implementation of Iran's nuclear deal with world powers is expected by Sunday, the country's deputy foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said, quoted by state media. A report by the International Atomic Energy Agency, concluding that Iran had fulfilled its obligations under the agreement, will come out on Friday, broadcaster IRIB cited Araghchi as saying, paving the way for sanctions to ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Iran_expects_nuclear_deal_implementation_by_Sunday_official_999.html

Ice sheets may be hiding vast reservoirs of powerful greenhouse gas

Ice sheets may be hiding vast reservoirs of powerful greenhouse gas Oslo, Norway (SPX) Jan 14, 2016 - The study indicates that under the frigid weight of Barents Sea Ice sheet, which covered northern Eurasia some 22 000 years ago, significant amounts of methane may have been stored as hydrates in the ground. As the ice sheet retreated, the methane rich hydrates melted, releasing the climate gas into the ocean and atmosphere for millennia. "Creation of gas hydrates requires high pressure; w ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Ice_sheets_may_be_hiding_vast_reservoirs_of_powerful_greenhouse_gas_999.html

GE to move headquarters to Boston for tech gains

GE to move headquarters to Boston for tech gains New York Jan 13, 2016 - US industrial conglomerate General Electric said Wednesday it was moving its corporate headquarters to Boston to gain a technology edge from the city's concentrated pool of talent. "Greater Boston is home to 55 colleges and universities. Massachusetts spends more on research and development than any other region in the world, and Boston attracts a diverse, technologically-fluent workforce fo ... morehttp://www.energy-daily.com/reports/GE_to_move_headquarters_to_Boston_for_tech_gains_999.html

Pickering NPP Given Regional Nod For Extended Life - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Pickering NPP Given Regional Nod For Extended Life - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Year 2015 At Vogtle, By The Numbers - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Year 2015 At Vogtle, By The Numbers - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Taiwan: Polls harken end of nuclear power | News | Eco-Business | Asia Pacific

Taiwan: Polls harken end of nuclear power | News | Eco-Business | Asia Pacific

Siting for new nuclear power unit in Bulgaria expected to get nod this summer: official | Shanghai Daily

Siting for new nuclear power unit in Bulgaria expected to get nod this summer: official | Shanghai Daily

Russian floating nuclear power plant's port to cost $78.5 million - Bellona.org

Russian floating nuclear power plant's port to cost $78.5 million - Bellona.org

PILGRIM NUCLEAR POWER STATION: Inspections focus on plant's corrective action plan - News - Wicked Local Plymouth - Plymouth, MA

PILGRIM NUCLEAR POWER STATION: Inspections focus on plant's corrective action plan - News - Wicked Local Plymouth - Plymouth, MA

How the EPA may force Wisconsin onto more nuclear power « Hot Air

How the EPA may force Wisconsin onto more nuclear power « Hot Air

TASS: Business & Economy - Share of nuclear power plants generation in Russia’s energy balance rose to 18.6% in 2015

TASS: Business & Economy - Share of nuclear power plants generation in Russia’s energy balance rose to 18.6% in 2015

Chinese experts unveil first 3D printed nuclear fuel element, could be widely used in 10 years

Chinese experts unveil first 3D printed nuclear fuel element, could be widely used in 10 years



http://www.3ders.org/articles/20160114-chinese-first-3d-printed-nuclear-fuel-element-could-be-widely-used-in-10-years.html

CGN to build floating reactor

CGN to build floating reactor


http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-CGN-to-build-floating-reactor-1301164.html

Door cracks open to U.S. nuclear waste storage in Great Lakes basin


Door cracks open to U.S. nuclear waste storage in Great Lakes basin

http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2016/01/wisconsin_nuclear_waste_storag.html

Audit: Network of U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission not optimized against cyberthreats


Audit: Network of U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission not optimized against cyberthreats


http://www.scmagazine.com/audit-network-of-us-nuclear-regulatory-commission-not-optimized-against-cyberthreats/article/464944/

Dominion Virginia Power targeting $9.5B of capital investments through 2020

Dominion Virginia Power targeting $9.5B of capital investments through 2020
https://www.snl.com/Interactivex/article.aspx?CdId=A-35045654-12845

Column: Former Energy Secretary backs MOX, pans WIPP plan

Column: Former Energy Secretary backs MOX, pans WIPP plan


http://www.aikenstandard.com/article/20160114/AIK02/160119733/1018/former-energy-secretary-backs-mox-pans-wipp-plan

ANS Nuclear Cafe Update: Nuclear Power Reactor Technology, 1950-1953 (Part II)

Nuclear Power Reactor Technology, 1950-1953 (Part II)

By ansnuclearcafe on Jan 12, 2016 02:21 pm

By Will Davis In the previous installment, we looked at the first of four projects to study nuclear power plants in the 1950–1953 time frame, as part of a group Continue Reading →
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share on Twitter Like Nuclear Power Reactor Technology, 1950-1953 (Part II) on Facebook

Fukushima Update 1/14/2016

Fukushima Update 1/14/2016

Fukushima Daiichi is becoming a popular tourist spot… Tokyo to further increase efforts for repopulation… Fukushima appeals to a third party over a financial dispute with Tepco… Stray cat rescue inside the evacuation zone continues despite the prefecture closing the abandoned-pet shelter… Fukui residents to file another lawsuit to bar Takahama station restarts… Solidification of high level nuclear waste will resume at Tokai station.

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

China faces nuclear energy choice: reprocess or not? - StarTribune.com

China faces nuclear energy choice: reprocess or not? - StarTribune.com

The molten salt reactor’s come-back | SFEN, Société Française d'Énergie Nucléaire

The molten salt reactor’s come-back | SFEN, Société Française d'Énergie Nucléaire

Nuclear commission risks being hacked because of organizational issues: watchdog report - Washington Times

Nuclear commission risks being hacked because of organizational issues: watchdog report - Washington Times

Vogtle expansion project achieves major milestones in 2015

Vogtle expansion project achieves major milestones in 2015

Iran Measures Up To The Nuclear Deal - Forbes

Iran Measures Up To The Nuclear Deal - Forbes

Policy: Reassess New Mexico's nuclear-waste repository

Policy: Reassess New Mexico's nuclear-waste repository


http://www.nature.com/news/policy-reassess-new-mexico-s-nuclear-waste-repository-1.19135

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

New study reveals Fukushima radiation reached U.S. coast far sooner than previously believed, as cesium levels reach record high off Western shores

New study reveals Fukushima radiation reached U.S. coast far sooner than previously believed, as cesium levels reach record high off Western shores

A Rolodex for the Nuclear Age - The New Yorker

A Rolodex for the Nuclear Age - The New Yorker

What Joe Romm Gets Wrong About James Hansen & Nuclear Energy

What Joe Romm Gets Wrong About James Hansen & Nuclear Energy


http://neinuclearnotes.blogspot.com/2016/01/what-joe-romm-gets-wrong-about-james.html

More nuclear power would help cut carbon pollution | Opinion | host.madison.com

More nuclear power would help cut carbon pollution | Opinion | host.madison.com

Can the nuclear industry save itself by going small? | TVO.org

Can the nuclear industry save itself by going small? | TVO.org

Russia Won't Attend Nuclear Security Summit In Washington

Russia Won't Attend Nuclear Security Summit In Washington


http://www.rferl.org/content/russia-not-attending--nuclear-summit/27485448.html

Scanning ultrasound removes amyloid-β and restores memory in an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model

Scanning ultrasound removes amyloid-β and restores memory in an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model


http://stm.sciencemag.org/content/7/278/278ra33

Scanning ultrasound removes amyloid-β and restores memory in an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model | Science Translational Medicine

Scanning ultrasound removes amyloid-β and restores memory in an Alzheimer’s disease mouse model | Science Translational Medicine

Nuclear Power Reactor Technology, 1950-1953 (Part II)

Nuclear Power Reactor Technology, 1950-1953 (Part II)


http://ansnuclearcafe.org/2016/01/12/nuclear-power-reactor-technology-1950-1953-part-ii/

Bernie's Big Nuclear Mistake - Mixed Reactions: Nuclear Energy in the Media - Pro-Nuclear Power Blogs - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Bernie's Big Nuclear Mistake - Mixed Reactions: Nuclear Energy in the Media - Pro-Nuclear Power Blogs - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Why Saudi Arabia Won't Cut Its Oil Production - Forbes

Why Saudi Arabia Won't Cut Its Oil Production - Forbes

Global glut of crude oil is forcing prices to the floor

Global glut of crude oil is forcing prices to the floor

Sale of the century? | The Economist

Sale of the century? | The Economist

Cost Of French Repository Could Be From €20bn To €30bn, Says Andra

Cost Of French Repository Could Be From €20bn To €30bn, Says Andra

EC Says It Has Doubts Over Hungary’s Proposals For Paks 2 Nuclear Project


EC Says It Has Doubts Over Hungary’s Proposals For Paks 2 Nuclear Project


http://www.nucnet.org/all-the-news/2016/01/13/ec-says-it-has-doubts-over-hungary-s-proposals-for-paks-2-nuclear-project

New IAEA Safety Report Aims at Strengthening Radiation Protection of Mobile Workers

New IAEA Safety Report Aims at Strengthening Radiation Protection of Mobile Workers

(Photo: P. Pavlicek/IAEA)
The transient workforce of nuclear professionals who offer their services internationally and are therefore exposed to radiation at several different facilities sometimes do not get screened or tracked for cumulative radiation exposure. Regulations require nuclear facilities to track exposure for regular employees and stipulate that they cannot continue to work once they have reached the threshold set for the facility. But mobile workers could fall outside of these boundaries, moving from place to place, and can be at risk of overexposure.
Radiation Protection of Itinerant Workers’, issued last month as part of the IAEA’s Safety Report series, provides comprehensive and up-to-date information on safety rules, procedures and applicable measures for these mobile workers.
“This Safety Report takes into account the substantial changes in requirements and practices in occupational radiation protection that have occurred over the past decade,” said Jizeng Ma, Head of the Occupational Radiation Protection Unit at the IAEA. “Before developing these safety guidelines, we had to get enough good examples to assess the levels of radiation exposure that these workers could face and this specific report provides clearly defined safety guidance that regulatory authorities need to follow for the ‘mobile workers’ who carry out specific tasks in the nuclear sector or in medical sectors.”
Radiation protection for all workers
 Services provided by this group of workers include maintenance tasks, where contracted workers may be required to work at a facility, during normal operations, shutdown or the maintenance of a section of the plant. The same contract workers could then also be deployed to another plant or power station. Safety procedures should be applied to them across all nuclear facilities. Contracted workers also provide specialized services, for instance, in the removal of scale and sediment from within pipes and vessels, the transport of radioactive waste, or the loading or changing of radioactive sources at irradiation facilities. These services also require enhanced levels of radiation protection for mobile workers while performing these tasks.
In addition, the report stresses the importance of a robust safety culture at all levels of an organisation. ‘Safety culture’ is about the characteristics and attitudes in individuals and organizations that help to ensure utmost attention is given to protection and safety issues.
“It also highlights the importance of radiation dose tracking, ensuring health surveillance, and training in the safety measures to be implemented,” Ma said. The IAEA encourages all Member States to have a national dose registry system in line with the IAEA Safety Standards.
The objectives of this publication includes the need for communication and cooperation, as well as allocating clearly defined responsibilities among the management of nuclear facilities and activities, regulatory authorities, operators and itinerant workers.
The IAEA continues to strengthen and promote high levels of radiation safety standards in all areas of nuclear science and technology and protect human health and the environment against dangerous levels of ionizing radiation.

SNL: NRC rejects Sanders' request to stop exemptions for decommissioning nukes | SNL

SNL: NRC rejects Sanders' request to stop exemptions for decommissioning nukes | SNL

Nuclear Renaissance Has Analysts Bullish On Uranium | OilPrice.com

Nuclear Renaissance Has Analysts Bullish On Uranium | OilPrice.com

Terrestrial Energy Gets CAD$10M in Series A Funding

Terrestrial Energy Gets CAD$10M in Series A Funding


http://neutronbytes.com/2016/01/12/terrestrial-energy-gets-cad10m-in-series-a-funding/

2015 – What a difference a year makes…

2015 – What a difference a year makes…


http://nuclearmatters.co.uk/2016/01/2015-what-a-difference-a-year-makes/

U.S. Nuclear Plants on Pace to Complete Post-Fukushima Enhancements: NRC Chief

U.S. Nuclear Plants on Pace to Complete Post-Fukushima Enhancements: NRC Chief


http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/us-nuclear-plants-on-pace-to-complete-post-fukushima-enhancements-nrc-chief-300203487.html


US nuclear plants making progress on safety upgrades: NRC chairman



http://www.platts.com/latest-news/electric-power/washington/us-nuclear-plants-making-progress-on-safety-upgrades-21749188?hootpostid=b45fb9225437760880c1e2f2f8a7a2c2

Mr. Moniz’s Nuclear Warning

Mr. Moniz’s Nuclear Warning

The keeper of America’s arsenal sends an S.O.S. about its deterioration.


http://www.wsj.com/articles/mr-monizs-nuclear-warning-1452644053

Teen hacker compromises CIA spy chief accounts

Teen hacker compromises CIA spy chief accounts

A teenage hacker has claimed responsibility for breaking into James Clapper's phone, email and his wife's accounts.


http://www.zdnet.com/article/teen-hacker-compromises-cia-spy-chief-accounts/?tag=nl.e566&s_cid=e566&ttag=e566&ftag=TRE49e8aa0

CGN to build floating reactor

CGN to build floating reactor
China General Nuclear expects to complete construction of a demonstration small modular offshore multi-purpose reactor by 2020, the company announced yesterday.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-CGN-to-build-floating-reactor-1301164.html

NASA Study Concludes When Civilization Will End, And It's Not Looking Good for Us

NASA Study Concludes When Civilization Will End, And It's Not Looking Good for Us


http://mic.com/articles/85541/nasa-study-concludes-when-civilization-will-end-and-it-s-not-looking-good-for-us#.ZNZWVOTjR

There Is a New Climate Change Disaster Looming in Northern Canada

There Is a New Climate Change Disaster Looming in Northern Canada


http://www.vice.com/read/this-is-the-looming-climate-change-disaster-in-canadas-north-that-no-one-is-talking-about

Team selected for US deep borehole field test

Team selected for US deep borehole field test

Wall Street Manipulating Markets Like China | Fiorenzo Arcadi | LinkedIn

Wall Street Manipulating Markets Like China | Fiorenzo Arcadi | LinkedIn

10 Key Energy Trends To Watch For In 2016

10 Key Energy Trends To Watch For In 2016

The Geopolitics of Cheap Oil

The Geopolitics of Cheap Oil

Unfolding Trends in the Oil Trading Industry | KPMG | GLOBAL

Unfolding Trends in the Oil Trading Industry | KPMG | GLOBAL

As oil plunges, energy companies cut jobs, postpone projects

As oil plunges, energy companies cut jobs, postpone projects

$subtitles.get($x) The world's biggest oil companies are slashing jobs and backing off major investments as the price of crude falls to new lows — and there may be more pain to come. … Continue Reading http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2016/01/as-oil-plunges-energy-companies-cut-jobs-postpone-projects.html?cmpid=EnlDailyPetroJanuary132016&eid=288118515&bid=1276060

South Korea, Japan Should Host US THAAD Missiles: Cohen

South Korea, Japan Should Host US THAAD Missiles: Cohen Washington DC (Sputnik) Jan 13, 2016 - South Korea and Japan should reconsider deploying US anti-missile batteries on their soil in response to North Korea's recent nuclear test, former US Defense Secretary William Cohen said at a US-China defense forum. "I would hope also that we would consider and have the South Koreans and the Japanese consider having THAAD [Terminal High Altitude Area Defense] on their territory," Cohen sta ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/South_Korea_Japan_Should_Host_US_THAAD_Missiles_Cohen_999.html

Iran to sell heavy water to US under nuclear deal

Iran to sell heavy water to US under nuclear deal Tehran (AFP) Jan 12, 2016 - Iran will sell part of its stock of heavy water to the United States under its nuclear deal with world powers, its deputy atomic chief said Tuesday. Ali Asghar Zarean also denied reports Iran had dismantled the core of its Arak nuclear reactor, a key step in the deal that is to see sanctions lifted in exchange for limits on Tehran's nuclear programme. "Iran will sell 40 tonnes of its exc ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Iran_to_sell_heavy_water_to_US_under_nuclear_deal_999.html

US set for 80-year lifespans; South Africa invites new plant bids | Nuclear Energy Insider

US set for 80-year lifespans; South Africa invites new plant bids | Nuclear Energy Insider

US funding package supports rising SMR activity | Nuclear Energy Insider

US funding package supports rising SMR activity | Nuclear Energy Insider

Ocean current in Gulf of Mexico linked to red tide

Ocean current in Gulf of Mexico linked to red tide Miami FL (SPX) Jan 13, 2016 - A new study found that a major ocean current in the Gulf of Mexico plays an important role in sustaining Florida red tide blooms. The University of Miami (UM) Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science research team suggest that the position of the Loop Current can serve as an indicator of whether the algal bloom will be sustained, and provide warning of possible hazardous red tide cond ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Ocean_current_in_Gulf_of_Mexico_linked_to_red_tide_999.html

Mountains west of Boulder continue to lose ice as climate warms

Mountains west of Boulder continue to lose ice as climate warms Boulder CO (SPX) Jan 13, 2016 - New research led by the University of Colorado Boulder indicates an ongoing loss of ice on Niwot Ridge and the adjacent Green Lakes Valley in the high mountains west of Boulder is likely to progress as the climate continues to warm. The study area encompasses the Niwot Ridge Long-Term Ecological Research (LTER) site, thousands of acres of alpine tundra, subalpine forest, talus slopes, glac ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Mountains_west_of_Boulder_continue_to_lose_ice_as_climate_warms_999.html

Clouds, like blankets, trap heat and are melting the Greenland Ice Sheet

Clouds, like blankets, trap heat and are melting the Greenland Ice Sheet Madison WI (SPX) Jan 13, 2016 - The Greenland Ice Sheet is the second largest ice sheet in the world and it's melting rapidly, likely driving almost a third of global sea level rise. A new study shows clouds are playing a larger role in that process than scientists previously believed. "Over the next 80 years, we could be dealing with another foot of sea level rise around the world," says Tristan L'Ecuyer, professor in t ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Clouds_like_blankets_trap_heat_and_are_melting_the_Greenland_Ice_Sheet_999.html


 Greenland ice sheet melts more when it's cloudy Leuven, Belgium (SPX) Jan 13, 2016 - Clouds play a bigger role in the melting of the Greenland ice sheet than was previously assumed. Compared to clear skies, clouds enhance the meltwater runoff by a third. Those are the findings of an international study that was coordinated by KU Leuven and published in Nature Communications. Greenland's ice sheet is the second largest ice mass in the world - the largest is Antarctica. The ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Greenland_ice_sheet_melts_more_when_its_cloudy_999.html

N. Korean Nuclear Test is Unacceptable Challenge- Park Geun Hye | MENAFN.COM

N. Korean Nuclear Test is Unacceptable Challenge- Park Geun Hye | MENAFN.COM

Japanese fishermen seek compensation for cancer caused by US nuclear tests | South China Morning Post

Japanese fishermen seek compensation for cancer caused by US nuclear tests | South China Morning Post

China could become a major nuclear power sooner rather than later | World Finance

China could become a major nuclear power sooner rather than later | World Finance

Committee Approves Bipartisan Nuclear Energy Bill | Democrats -Committee on Science, Space and Technology, U.S. House of Representatives

Committee Approves Bipartisan Nuclear Energy Bill | Democrats -Committee on Science, Space and Technology, U.S. House of Representatives

Nuclear Radiation, Kierkegaard, and the Philosophy of Denial

Nuclear Radiation, Kierkegaard, and the Philosophy of Denial

Russia to skip Nuclear Security Summit scheduled for 2016 in Washington - The Washington Post

Russia to skip Nuclear Security Summit scheduled for 2016 in Washington - The Washington Post

In fast U-turn, Davos forum cancels invitation to North Korea | Reuters

In fast U-turn, Davos forum cancels invitation to North Korea | Reuters

Solar Jobs Continue to Outpace US Economy - Renewable Energy World

Solar Jobs Continue to Outpace US Economy - Renewable Energy World

Climate change is one of President Obama's signature issues. But how has he fared over his seven years in office? | MIT Technology Review

Climate change is one of President Obama's signature issues. But how has he fared over his seven years in office? | MIT Technology Review

Advanced Nuclear Startup Terrestrial Energy Lands Initial Funding

Advanced Nuclear Startup Terrestrial Energy Lands Initial Funding

Canadian startup becomes first advanced reactor developer to land significant outside backing.

http://www.technologyreview.com/news/545406/advanced-nuclear-startup-terrestrial-energy-lands-initial-funding/?utm_campaign=newsletters&utm_source=newsletter-daily-all&utm_medium=email&utm_content=20160113

Tuesday, January 12, 2016

EDF Slumps on Report It Underestimated Cost of Waste Storage


EDF Slumps on Report It Underestimated Cost of Waste Storage

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-01-12/edf-drops-on-report-it-underestimated-nuclear-waste-storage-cost

As I See It: NuScale nuclear technology is safe, sustainable

As I See It: NuScale nuclear technology is safe, sustainable


http://www.gazettetimes.com/news/opinion/as-i-see-it/article_c88074dc-f801-514d-9794-aba177010e10.html

A Roadmap for U.S. Nuclear Energy Innovation | Issues in Science and Technology

A Roadmap for U.S. Nuclear Energy Innovation | Issues in Science and Technology

The 2016 State of the Union and Nuclear Energy Policy

The 2016 State of the Union and Nuclear Energy Policy


http://neinuclearnotes.blogspot.com/2016/01/the-2016-state-of-union-and-nuclear.html

Panel approves nuclear energy research bill

Panel approves nuclear energy research bill


http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/265571-committee-signs-off-on-nuclear-energy-research-bill

Obama Looks to the Future on Climate Change - Scientific American

Obama Looks to the Future on Climate Change - Scientific American

As U.S. Modernizes Nuclear Weapons, ‘Smaller’ Leaves Some Uneasy - The New York Times

As U.S. Modernizes Nuclear Weapons, ‘Smaller’ Leaves Some Uneasy - The New York Times

IAEA Starts Assessment of Japan's Efforts on Safe Use of Nuclear Plants

IAEA Starts Assessment of Japan's Efforts on Safe Use of Nuclear Plants Tokyo (Sputnik) Jan 12, 2016 - A group of experts of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) began on Monday its planned assessment of the Japanese government's efforts to ensure safe use of nuclear power plants. "This mission will assess the new regulatory framework established in Japan after the Fukushima Daiichi accident," Philippe Jamet, the IAEA delegation's head, told reporters. According to Jamet, the mi ... more http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/IAEA_Starts_Assessment_of_Japans_Efforts_on_Safe_Use_of_Nuclear_Plants_999.html

Team selected for US deep borehole field test

Team selected for US deep borehole field test
A team led by Battelle Memorial Institute has been selected by the US Department of Energy to drill a 16,000 feet (4880 metre) test borehole into a crystalline basemat rock formation in North Dakota as part of studies into the feasibility of using boreholes for nuclear waste disposal. http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/WR-Team-selected-for-US-deep-borehole-field-test-0801168.html

French repository costs disputed

French repository costs disputed
There is disagreement between France's radioactive waste generators and the country's radioactive waste management agency on the cost of building and operating a national repository for the disposal of high- and intermediate-level waste. The French industry minister must now decide a 'reference cost'.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/WR-French-repository-costs-disputed-1201164.html

Oil & Energy Insider 12/01/2016 Energy Intelligence Report Newsletter

Greetings from London,

In this week’s newsletter, we will take a quick look at some of the critical figures and data in the energy markets this week. Oil regained a bit of lost ground on Tuesday morning, but is now dangerously close to dipping below $30 per barrel.

We will then look at some of the key market movers early this week before providing you with the latest analysis of the top news events taking place in the global energy complex over the past few days. We hope you enjoy.





Chart of the Week

 

•    U.S. coal production has
collapsed over the past decade. After hitting a high-water mark in 2008, coal production has steadily declined, with losses accelerating since 2012.
•    Coal production is estimated to have hit 900 million short tons in 2015, a massive 10 percent decline from just one year earlier. That is also the lowest level since 1986.
•    There are a variety of factors contributing to the decline. One of the most important reasons is plummeting international coal prices, which came because of too much supply.
•    But there are contributing factors unique to the United States that has also gone a long way to killing coal: cheap shale gas and stricter environmental regulations.
•    Central Appalachia is bearing the brunt of the losses due to higher operating costs relative to other regions, especially the Powder River Basin.
•    Coal exports likely won’t be a savior for struggling mining companies. U.S. coal exports to China and Europe actually declined in 2015 because of weak demand.

Market Movers

•    Arch Coal (NYSE: ACI) filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Monday. The company hopes to get rid of $4.5 billion in debt that it cannot pay. Over
one-quarter of U.S. coal production is in bankruptcy at this point.
•    BP (NYSE: BP)
announced plans to slash another 4,000 jobs, or 5 percent of its payroll. That will take its upstream workforce down below 20,000 by the end of the year. It also plans on selling of an additional $3 to $5 billion in assets in 2016.
•    Whiting Petroleum (NYSE: WLL) and Newfield Exploration (NYSE: NFX) received a
credit upgrade from Wells Fargo on Monday. Wells Fargo says that the market is near a bottom, and that Newfield is “a best of breed defensive name, while Whiting is the higher risk/reward name that has more upside to a potential crude price recovery.” 

For more detailed numbers and oil market analysis start a free trial to Oilprice Premium - Click here


Tuesday January 12, 2016

The extreme pessimism in crude oil markets continues. WTI and Brent have set new lows almost every day of 2016, now trading in the low $30s per barrel. Crude is down 15 percent on the year.

The same gloominess surrounding oversupply has not changed. What is different this time are new worries over the Chinese economy. The Shanghai Composite has crashed by more than 5 percent in a single day multiple times in the past week and a half, and is off by 20 percent since late December. Fortunately, the index stabilized on January 12, closing out the trading day pretty much flat. But the turmoil in China’s stock market is far from over.

At the same time, China’s currency is under pressure. The combined effect of a slowing economy with a weaker currency could do significant damage to China’s oil demand, which is why oil markets are so alarmed. China’s stock market is a fraction of the size of its western counterparts, but the Chinese economy is so intertwined with so many trading partners that when China sneezes, much of the world will catch a cold. The WSJ published a
nice analysis of the far-reaching of effects that China’s current economic situation is having – pushing down currencies around the world, depressing commodity prices, and slowing global trade. In other words, China’s turmoil raises the possibility of economic contagion.

With that backdrop in mind, crude oil has declined rapidly, and a price with a 2-handle is no longer a remote possibility. Goldman Sachs made the largest splash last year when it predicted $20 oil, but now other investment banks – including Morgan Stanley and Citigroup – are jumping on board with the bearish predictions. Unlike some of its peers, Morgan Stanley pinned much of the decline in recent months on the strong U.S. dollar. According to Wolfe Research, around
one-third of U.S. oil and gas producers could be forced into bankruptcy by mid-2017 if oil prices remain low.

The ruinous prices have opened up the possibility that OPEC might call an emergency meeting, as soon as the first quarter. OPEC President and Nigerian oil minister, Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu,
said on January 11 that two OPEC nations are pushing for such a meeting to take place. He declined to name the countries, but they can be surmised. OPEC is in two camps: Saudi Arabia and its Gulf State allies are satisfied with the group’s current course. Venezuela, which called for an emergency meeting last year, and other troubled members are pressing the stronger members to cut production.

Despite the push for an emergency meeting, it is unclear if it will take place. UAE’s oil minister, Suhail bin Mohammed al-Mazrouei, responded to the reports by saying there was no need for such an “artificial move” to rescue prices. “I think the strategy is working,” he added. Moreover, with tensions flaring between Saudi Arabia and Iran, is not obvious that the group can even work together. Finally, Iran has yet to ramp up production, as it is expected to do following the removal of sanctions, and OPEC won’t take any action until after that occurs. In short, no one should pin their hopes on OPEC to fix rock bottom prices.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia made news last week when its deputy crown prince suggested that Saudi Aramco could offer a limited IPO. The company’s Chairman Khalid al-Falih confirmed interest in the move on Monday, and even
revealed that upstream assets could be part of a public offering. Aramco is by far the largest oil company in the world, accounting for 10 percent of global oil production and around 260 billion barrels of oil reserves under its control. The company could be worth trillions of dollars, so even a 5 percent listing would be massive. It is too early to really speculate whether an IPO will happen; Aramco says it does not have a concrete plan in place at this point. “It will take time,” Aramco’s Chairman said.

Libya is
attempting to load crude oil at its major export terminal Ras Lanuf on the Mediterranean coast. The port has been shuttered since late 2014 and it has come under attacks from ISIS militants in recent weeks, with oil storage facilities set ablaze from machine gun fire. But a Greek tanker is hoping to load oil that is stored at the port, which if successful, would be the first oil exported from Ras Lanuf in over a year. Libya only produces around 400,000 barrels per day, down by over 1 mb/d since the Qaddafi era.

A suicide bomber
killed at least 10 people in the heart of Istanbul today, injuring more than a dozen others. The explosion hit Istanbul’s tourist district. No one has yet claimed responsibility but Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said the bomber came from Syria.

In its January
Drilling Productivity Report, the EIA expects oil production from the major U.S. shale regions to decline by 116,000 barrels per day in February, the same drop off that it projected for January. The losses will come largely from the Eagle Ford, which is expected to lose 72,000 barrels per day. The Marcellus Shale, the largest source of shale gas production, is also projected to see a decline of natural gas production by 225 million cubic feet per day.

We invite you to read several of the most recent articles we have published which may be of interest to you:


Shocking: ISIS Attacks On Libyan Oil Facilities Visible from Space
Successful Cyber Attack Ukraine Raises Fears Of Threats To Energy Infrastructure
$20 Oil Is Now A Distinct Possibility As Chinese Demand Wanes
Crashing Oil Prices And Dropping Rig Count Take Their Toll On U.S. Output
Morgan Stanley Joins The $20 Oil Club
Potentially Worth Trillions, But Is Aramco A ‘Good Deal’ For Investors?
Petro Currencies Under Fire As Oil Keeps Sliding
Was Iran’s Claim About Ramping Up Oil Production Just Hype?

That’s all from your midweek intelligence report, we hope you enjoyed it and we´ll be back on Friday, with your latest energy market update, industry intelligence and special report.

Best regards,

Evan Kelly
News Editor, Oilprice.com

P.S. – Our top analyst Jim Hyerczyk has watched oil prices move down rapidly towards the next support level, he expects that due to the huge volume of short positions, markets could be set up for a massive spike - comparable to the one that occurred a few months ago. Although Jim sees that trend for crude oil is still downwards, he notices signals of buyer interest in the futures markets. Find out all about the support levels for oil, short and long interest and the trend by
clicking here.