Crime, War and Mischief Are the Internet Norms By Llewellyn King

https://whchronicle.com/?p=3322

TVA - TVA Submits Early Site Permit Application For Clinch River SMRs

TVA - TVA Submits Early Site Permit Application For Clinch River SMRs

Plan To Save Clinton's Nuclear Power Plant Moving Forward

http://foxillinois.com/news/local/plan-to-save-clintons-nuclear-power-plant-moving-forward-05-14-2016

The US is badly underinvesting in electricity infrastructure

The US is badly underinvesting in electricity infrastructure

http://www.vox.com/2016/5/12/11665236/electricity-infrastructure-investments

DOE, NRC set workshop dates for SMRs, Advanced Reactors

DOE, NRC set workshop dates for SMRs, Advanced Reactors

https://neutronbytes.com/2016/05/13/doe-nrc-set-workshop-dates-for-smrs-advanced-reactors/

Senate Passes $37.5 Billion Spending Bill for Energy and Water Programs

http://www.powermag.com/senate-passes-37-5-billion-spending-bill-for-energy-and-water-programs/

TVA submits application for smaller nuclear reactor in Oak Ridge

http://www.wbir.com/news/local/tva-submits-application-for-smaller-nuclear-reactor-in-oak-ridge/189989869

Senate Passes Pro-Nuclear Appropriations Bill

http://www.nei.org/News-Media/News/News-Archives/Senate-Passes-Pro-Nuclear-Appropriations-Bill

Study sees flaws in Obama MOX decision

http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/metro/2016-05-10/study-sees-flaws-obama-mox-decision

EIA sees strong growth in nuclear generation to 2040

http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/EE-EIA-sees-strong-growth-in-nuclear-generation-to-2040-1205164.html

Australia Should Cash In On A Single Global Nuclear Repository

Australia Should Cash In On A Single Global Nuclear Repository

Australia is thinking about building a deep geologic nuclear repository that would take nuclear waste from the whole world, or at least from those countries that have no viable option for their nuclear waste. Such a facility could generate a profit exceeding $100 billion over the life of the project, while saving the world over $400 billion. Non-proliferation and better environmental protection are important benefits. This is a very big deal. And also a very good idea.http://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesconca/#22cf918b2059

www.forbes.com/sites/jamesconca

Power hungry

Power hungry

The Hinkley Point nuclear shambles highlights the flaws of British energy policy

http://www.economist.com/news/britain/21698673-hinkley-point-nuclear-shambles-highlights-flaws-british-energy-policy-power-hungry

Secret Chinese plans to take over nuclear power station

Beijing prepares for Hinkley Point rescue bid

http://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/secret-china-plans-to-take-over-nuclear-power-station-z7qjn0cqk

Bangladesh to commission nuclear power plant in 2022 -

 Bangladesh to commission nuclear power plant in 2022 -

Bangladesh to commission nuclear power plant in 2022 - See more at: http://newsnextbd.com/bangladesh-to-commission-nuclear-power-plant-in-2022/#sthash.DYZs9Hys.dpuf

http://newsnextbd.com/bangladesh-to-commission-nuclear-power-plant-in-2022/

Areva to decontaminate 1,345MW Grafenrheinfeld nuclear power plant in Germany

http://nuclear.energy-business-review.com/news/areva-to-decontaminate-1345mw-grafenrheinfeld-nuclear-power-plant-in-germany-130516-4893165

Energy legislation needed to save nuclear power

http://www.clintondailyjournal.com/v2_news_articles.php?heading=0&page=88&story_id=5953

Clinton Journal Energy legislation needed to save nuclear power

Clinton Journal Energy legislation needed to save nuclear power

Premier Calls for More China-France Nuclear Power Projects

Premier Calls for More China-France Nuclear Power Projects
http://english.cri.cn/12394/2016/05/13/3941s927524.htm

Nebraska Utility Head Recommends Closing Nuclear Power Plant

http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/nebraska-utility-head-recommends-closing-nuclear-power-plant-39071354

Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Electricity Generation in 2015 Were Lowest Since 1993

Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Electricity Generation in 2015 Were Lowest Since 1993
http://www.theenergycollective.com/todayinenergy/2378091/carbon-dioxide-emissions-from-electricity-generation-in-2015-were-lowest-since-1993?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The+Energy+Collective+%28all+posts%29

The Real Oil Limits Story; What Other Researchers Missed

The Real Oil Limits Story; What Other Researchers Missed
http://www.theenergycollective.com/gail-tverberg/2378092/the-real-oil-limits-story-what-other-researchers-missed?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The+Energy+Collective+%28all+posts%29

2040 energy picture sees 3-way tie in electric generation

http://www.eenews.net/stories/1060037115

Full nuclear cycle could be created in Ukrainian power sector – minister

http://en.interfax.com.ua/news/economic/343110.html

Feds seek transportation services for nuke waste repository

The U.S. Department of Energy has started the search for contractors that can provide transportation services for the federal government's only underground nuclear waste repository. … Continue Reading http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2016/05/feds-seek-transportation-services-for-nuke-waste-repository.html?cmpid=EnlWeeklyPowerMay132016&eid=288118515&bid=1404119

Report: Renewables Will be No. 1 in Global Power Generation in 24 years By 2040, renewables will overtake coal to become the leading source of power generation worldwide, according to a report released Wednesday by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Meanwhile, coal will continue to be the dominant source of electricity for another 24 years, the report found. http://www.power-eng.com/articles/2016/05/report-renewables-will-be-no-1-in-global-power-generation-in-24-years.html?cmpid=enl-poe-weekly-may-13-2016&cmpid=enl_PE_Weekly_2016-05-13&eid=288118515&bid=1404063

Small, Modular Nuclear Plants Get Their First Chance in the U.S.

Small, Modular Nuclear Plants Get Their First Chance in the U.S.

Small, Modular Nuclear Plants Get Their First Chance in the U.S.

Small, Modular Nuclear Plants Get Their First Chance in the U.S.

https://www.technologyreview.com/s/601426/small-modular-nuclear-plants-get-their-first-chance-in-the-us/

China and Pakistan join hands to block India's entry into Nuclear Suppliers Group

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/China-and-Pakistan-join-hands-to-block-Indias-entry-into-Nuclear-Suppliers-Group/articleshow/52243719.cms

EIA sees strong growth in nuclear generation to 2040

EIA sees strong growth in nuclear generation to 2040

8 Countries that Produce The Most Nuclear Power in The World 0

 

8 Countries that Produce The Most Nuclear Power in The World

0

http://www.techinsider.net/8-countries-that-produce-the-most-nuclear-power-in-the-world/1129464.html

EDF to propose deal for six nuclear reactors in India by end of 2016

http://www.firstpost.com/world/edf-to-propose-deal-for-six-nuclear-reactors-in-india-by-end-of-2016-277887

North Korea, nuclear power and the future Are there any prospects for denuclearisation on the Korean Peninsula?

North Korea, nuclear power and the future

Are there any prospects for denuclearisation on the Korean Peninsula?
- See more at: http://www.policyforum.net/north-korea-nuclear-power-future/#sthash.zvEDovkQ.dpuf

http://www.policyforum.net/north-korea-nuclear-power-future/

Bid to stop heavy water purchase from Iran blocked in U.S. Senate

http://af.reuters.com/article/commoditiesNews/idAFL2N1880YM

Oldest nuclear power plant in NJ will close

http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/new-jersey/93626-oldest-nuclear-power-plant-in-nj-will-close

ANS Nuclear Cafe 5/12

Scientists Develop 3-D ‘X-ray’ for Nuclear Fuel By ansnuclearcafe on May 12, 2016 09:57 am By Nora Heikkinen Dentists who want to see what is happening behind your teeth, enamel and gums can capture a complete set of dental X-rays in just a few minutes. Continue Reading → Read in browser » The Atomic City By ansnuclearcafe on May 11, 2016 10:38 am By Will Davis In 1959, a small community in Ohio completed a lobbying effort to bring a modern marvel to town—a nuclear power plant. Piqua, a town of less than Continue Reading → Read in browser »

More to read: Nuclear Upended: Innovation Bootcamp Another Japanese Plant Cleared to Restart 2016 ANS Student Conference… Tours, Keynote Speakers and ANS Support ANS Nuclear Cafe Friday Matinee – April 29 Why Do I Attend ANS National Meetings? Where Do I Start?

Ft. Calhoun Closure Recommended

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For Additional Information: Jodi Baker, 402-636-3592 Mike Jones, 402-636-3749

May 12, 2016

Planning for future, OPPD management recommends ceasing operations at Fort Calhoun Station
Upon decision, utility proposes no general rate increase for five years and takes major step to be 20% below the regional average
Continued operation of Fort Calhoun Station (FCS) is not in the long-term financial best interests of OPPD or its customer-owners. That’s what President and CEO Tim Burke told the board of directors at today’s monthly meeting, making a recommendation from senior management that the utility will cease the generation of electricity at FCS by the end of 2016 and begin decommissioning.
The recommendation came after a thorough review of OPPD’s resource planning efforts. The board will review the recommendation and is anticipated to vote on it at the June 16 board meeting. If the recommendation is approved, OPPD proposes no general rate increases through 2021.
Chairman Mick Mines asked for potential scenarios regarding the future resource portfolio at the April 14 board meeting and directed senior management to provide a recommendation at the May board meeting.
The request was prompted, in part, by dynamic and rapid changes that are taking place in the industry. The request also builds on the success of the 2014 resource generation plan that led to a bold reform of OPPD’s generation portfolio. OPPD’s mission is to provide affordable, reliable and environmentally sensitive energy services to our customers.
“The economic analysis clearly shows that continued operation of Fort Calhoun Nuclear Station is not financially sustainable,” Burke told the board. “The analysis considered market conditions, economies of scale and the proposed Clean Power Plan.”
Larger and multi-unit nuclear plants can spread many costs across more megawatts produced. At 478.1 megawatts, FCS is the smallest rated unit in North America, based on accredited capability.
Noting a trend in the industry, Burke said that slow revenue growth, market conditions and increasing regulatory and operational costs have led to the recent early retirement of several

other U.S. nuclear generating stations. Since 2013, seven other nuclear units have been slated for decommissioning.
Difficult Recommendation
“While the recommendation to cease operations at Fort Calhoun Nuclear Station was a difficult one, it was a determination that had to be made in order to fulfill the district’s mission and our responsibility to our customer-owners,” Burke added. “This recommendation is not reflective of employee or Exelon performance.”
If this recommendation is approved, senior management acknowledges it would have far- reaching impact for OPPD employees, their families, long-term contractors and the communities surrounding the plant.
“OPPD would make every effort to absorb as many employees as possible into other areas of the district, based on qualifications and open positions,” Burke said. “Retraining would be made available in cases where there would be strong potential for success.
“OPPD’s committed to treating employees fairly and with honesty and transparency as we would work through this very difficult process,” Burke said.
Strategic Directives
The recommendation aligns with the strategic directives established by the OPPD Board of Directors in collaboration with senior managers in July 2015. The strategic directives provide clear direction for long-term performance.
Customer-owners want affordable rates, and the board has directed senior management to drive those rates to 20 percent below the regional average. Continued operations of FCS, with its high operating costs, would impede OPPD from moving toward its goal of being 20 percent below the regional average.
Customer-owners have also told OPPD they want an integrated resource portfolio that ensures reliable, competitive, cost-effective and environmentally sensitive energy.
“We have determined that reliability would remain strong without Fort Calhoun Nuclear Station generation,” Burke said. “OPPD would continue to have enough power to meet the needs of customers.”
Safety Paramount
Burke told the board that the safe and efficient oversight of FCS remains OPPD’s highest priority, as the safety of our employees and the public is paramount.

“Decommissioning takes years, and staffing reductions would take place in a thoughtful and phased manner,” he said. “We are assessing positions that would need to be retained to ensure public safety and site security if we move forward in this process.”
OPPD will continue to look at resource options, including the possibility of constructing or purchasing additional generation of many types (natural gas, wind, solar) as necessary.
The board anticipates that it will vote on the recommendation at the June 16 meeting.
OPPDListens.com has more information, and it will be updated as more details become available.
OPPD’s Mission:
Provide affordable, reliable and environmentally sensitive energy services to our customers

 

Más dinero para la nuclear

http://www.energias-renovables.com/articulo/mas-dinero-para-la-nuclear-20160511

 

Rejuvenating an Aging Fleet, Jumpstarting Modulars

NRC Head on the Future of Nuclear Power

http://tdworld.com/news/rejuvenating-aging-fleet-jumpstarting-modulars-0

Fukushima Update 5/12/16

Fukushima Update 5/12/16 –

The lull in Fukushima reporting continues… Another smaller Japanese nuke to be scrapped.

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

Delivering the Nuclear Promise: Training Team Update with Randy Edington

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQNavDSDwV0&feature=em-uploademail

TVA rejects preliminary offer on Alabama nuclear site - Birmingham Business Journal

TVA rejects preliminary offer on Alabama nuclear site - Birmingham Business Journal

NEA head highlights challenges facing nuclear power

NEA head highlights challenges facing nuclear power

What role will Australia have on the nuclear world stage?

What role will Australia have on the nuclear world stage?

Nevada firm offers $38 million for abandoned TVA nuclear plant | Times Free Press

Nevada firm offers $38 million for abandoned TVA nuclear plant | Times Free Press

Study sees flaws in Obama MOX decision | The Augusta Chronicle

Study sees flaws in Obama MOX decision | The Augusta Chronicle

MSNBC: 'Clinton Cash' Documentary 'Devastating,' 'Powerfully Connects the Dots' - Breitbart

MSNBC: 'Clinton Cash' Documentary 'Devastating,' 'Powerfully Connects the Dots' - Breitbart

Nuclear power phobia does harm to planet

http://blog.timesunion.com/opinion/nuclear-power-phobia-does-harm-to-planet/35198/

What to expect from Energy Storage Update USA 2016

Announcement in Linked:Energy (Energy industry expertise)

What to expect from Energy Storage Update USA 2016 Michael Tingle Renewable Energy/Air Compliance /Construction Monitoring Sales Specialist / Community Chair Linked Energy Dear Colleague, Advanced energy storage systems market is expected to grow from an estimated USD 12.89 Billion in 2015 to USD 15.96 Billion by 2020. For this reason, Energy Storage Update USA (15-16 June) will unite 200+ leading utilities, financiers, developers and vendors to tackle utility-scale deployment. Want to know how to make storage technologies bankable? Check the latest program to find out here at http://1.energystorageupdate.com/LP=11787 You will receive unprecedented insight on the latest developments from: * Donna L. Nelson, Chairman, Public Utility Commission of Texas * Lorraine Akiba, Commissioner, Hawaii Public Utilities Commission * Griffin Reilly, Manager - Reforming the Energy Vision (REV) Demonstration Projects, Con Edison * Lori Atwater, Program Manager, Energy Efficiency, Southern California Edison * Charles Post, Principal - Energy Storage, Pacific Gas, and Electric * Rich Barone, Manager Demand Response, Hawaiian Electric * Nathan Bruner, Clean Transportation Business Development Manager, San Diego Gas & Electric * Mark Frigo, Vice President, Head of Energy Storage, E.ON- Europe * Rao Konidena, Principal Advisor, Policy Studies, Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) * Jigar Shah, Co-Founder, Generate Capital * Gordon Mackay, Director, Global Industrial Group, Citi Bank * Craig O'Connor, Director of Business Development – Renewable Energy & High Technology Project & Structured Finance Division, Export-Import Bank of the United States * Michael Foster, Strategic Procurement Lead, Sempra U.S. Gas & Power * Paul Breslow, Open Innovation, EDF Renewables * Roger Lin, Director, Product Marketing, NEC Energy Solutions This is the US’s greatest energy storage event for networking, winning contracts and understanding the steps you must take to achieve large-scale commercial deployment. To join this international gathering, you can sign up here http://bit.ly/24K8U8x For more information, please contact: Iulia-Lorena Rus Senior Industry Analyst Energy Storage Update P: +44 (0) 20 7375 7564 E: iulia@energystorageupdate.com Regards, Michael Tingle Community Chair: Linked Energy Respond Now View

Russia to test-fire massive nuclear missile: Report

Russia to test-fire massive nuclear missile: Report

http://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2016/05/11/465010/Russia-nuclear-missile-ICBM-Sarmat

Toshiba posts US$4.4 billion full-year loss on nuclear writedown

Toshiba said on Thursday that it suffered a $4.4 billion full-year net loss as the troubled conglome
http://enews.shafaqna.com/EN/AL/2272367

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/business/international/toshiba-posts-us-4-4/2779042.html

Plan for nuclear waste storage

http://blog.timesunion.com/opinion/plan-for-nuclear-waste-storage/35232/

North Korea to expand economic, nuclear capabilities

North Korea to expand economic, nuclear capabilities

http://presstv.ir/Detail/2016/05/09/464665/North-Korea-Congress-Kim-Jongun-byungjin/

ENEC To Host Public Forums On Nuclear Energy In Abu Dhabi And The Western Region Next Week

 ENEC To Host Public Forums On Nuclear Energy In Abu Dhabi And The Western Region Next Week

http://www.abudhabicityguide.com/news/news-details.asp?newsid=21126

Malawi: Chinese Miner Warned On Malawi Uranium Mine At Kayerekela

http://allafrica.com/stories/201605120359.html

EU reminds Armenia on Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (exclusive)

http://en.trend.az/azerbaijan/politics/2532280.html

By David Earl

Bio

Fort Calhoun nuclear plant's future in question as OPPD studies costs

http://www.ketv.com/news/fort-calhoun-nuclear-plants-future-in-question-as-oppd-studies-costs/39499588

Energizing U.S. Foreign Policy

Energizing U.S. Foreign Policy Richard D. Kauzlarich

How America can use natural gas and oil exports as a diplomatic force multiplier.

http://www.the-american-interest.com/2016/05/10/energizing-u-s-foreign-policy/

SCE&G's share of nuke expansion project rises to $7.2B

SCE&G's share of nuke expansion project rises to $7.2B
https://www.snl.com/Interactivex/article.aspx?CdId=A-36434218-13101

An alternative energy company says it wants to buy TVA's unfinished Bellefonte Nuclear Plant for $38 million cash

http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/382e3bc32a47464ab611d6a239b2dc7a/AL--TVA-Nuclear-Bellefonte

NuScale to Hold UK Supplier Day on July 13th in Sheffield

http://www.theenergycollective.com/dan-yurman/2377932/nuscale-to-hold-uk-supplier-day-on-july-13th-in-sheffield?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The+Energy+Collective+%28all+posts%29

DOE Releases Draft Request for Proposal and Announces Pre-Solicitation Conference for Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) Transportation Services Procurement

DOE Releases Draft Request for Proposal and Announces Pre-Solicitation Conference for Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) Transportation Services Procurement

May 11, 2016 - 4:00pm

Media Contact

• Bill Taylor, (575) 234-7591 bill.taylor@cbfo.doe.gov

Cincinnati -- The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Environmental Management Consolidated Business Center (EMCBC) today issued a Draft Request for Proposal (RFP) for Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) Transportation Services. An Indefinite-Delivery Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) contract, utilizing Firm-Fixed Price (FFP) task orders, that may include a separate Contract Line Item Number (CLIN) (within Task Orders) for specified cost reimbursable (no fee) items such as State permits and Use fees, New Mexico Gross Receipts Tax, fuel, and safe driving bonus is anticipated. The Draft RFP is established as a total Small Business set-aside with a five year ordering period. The current WIPP Transportation Services contracts held by CAST Specialty Transportation, Inc. and Visionary Solutions, LLC will expire on January 12, 2017 and July 27, 2017, respectively.
The purpose of the Draft RFP is to solicit input from interested parties to assist DOE in developing a Final RFP for this procurement. DOE invites all interested parties to thoroughly examine the Draft RFP and the accompanying procurement website in their entirety and to submit comments to DOE.
Additionally, a pre-solicitation conference, site tour, and one-on-one sessions with interested parties are anticipated to be held during the week of May 30, 2016. Registration information is available via the procurement website.
The WIPP Transportation Services are for providing facilities, personnel, and equipment to operate a local terminal and transportation and maintenance services necessary to support the WIPP. This includes, but is not limited to, carrier services for the safe transport of contact-handled (CH) and remote-handled (RH) transuranic (TRU) wastes and mixed hazardous constituents, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and asbestos, between various DOE sites across the country and other defense-related TRU waste generator sites to the WIPP site, near Carlsbad, New Mexico.
Additional information is available via the procurement website at: https://www.emcbc.doe.gov/SEB/wipp_transportation_services/index.php

How much should consumers pay for San Onofre nuclear shutdown? Settlement talks reopened

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/settlement-715488-edison-billion.html

California Regulators Reopen San Onofre Settlement

http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pe/2016/05/california-regulators-reopen-san-onofre-settlement.html

California regulators reopen San Onofre case over secret settlement talks

http://www.utilitydive.com/news/california-regulators-reopen-san-onofre-case-over-secret-settlement-talks/419010/

California PUC’s big scandal over San Onofre closure heats up | Fresno Bee

California PUC’s big scandal over San Onofre closure heats up | Fresno Bee

Staff at Barakah nuclear power plant being trained to tackle disasters | The National

Staff at Barakah nuclear power plant being trained to tackle disasters | The National

SLOW BUILD The United States’ newest nuclear power plant has taken 43 years to build

SLOW BUILD

The United States’ newest nuclear power plant has taken 43 years to build

http://qz.com/681753/the-united-states-newest-nuclear-power-plant-has-taken-43-years-to-build/

In 1964, a nuclear bomb was detonated in south Mississippi

http://www.nola.com/health/index.ssf/2016/05/obama_hiroshima_nuclear_bombin.html

Critics Worry Armed Security Makes Nuclear Plants More Dangerous

http://www.breitbart.com/california/2016/05/11/critics-worry-enhanced-security-actually-endangers-safety-nuclear-plants/

Nevada officials take up latest fed report on Yucca Mountain

https://lasvegassun.com/news/2016/may/10/nevada-officials-take-up-latest-fed-report-on-yucc/

Indian Point Says SAMA Analysis Complied With NRC Standards

Indian Point Says SAMA Analysis Complied With NRC Standards

http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2016/05/11/indian-point-says-sama-analysis-complied-with-nrc-standards-051102#.VzOc9GYQFaU

NEA head highlights challenges facing nuclear power

http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-NEA-head-highlights-challenges-facing-nuclear-power-110501.html

Leader: New Yucca Mountain report ignores impact on tribe

http://www.nevadaappeal.com/news/21966812-113/leader-new-yucca-mountain-report-ignores-impact-on

Davis-Besse nuclear reactor restarted, equipped to handle Fukushima-sized disaster

http://www.cleveland.com/business/index.ssf/2016/05/davis-besse_nuclear_reactor_re.html

Fuel loading begins at China's Changjiang 2

Fuel loading begins at China's Changjiang 2
Fuel loading operations are under way at the second unit of the Changjiang nuclear power plant, under construction on China's southern island province of Hainan. The reactor is expected to begin operating later this year.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-Fuel-loading-begins-at-Chinas-Changjiang-2-1105165.html

NEA head highlights challenges facing nuclear power

NEA head highlights challenges facing nuclear power
William Magwood, director general of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency, highlighted some of the issues hindering the prospects of nuclear power at a two-day conference that started today at the organisation's headquarters in Paris. These issues include the impact of deregulated electricity markets, the place of natural gas in the context of efforts to curb global emissions of CO2, and the myths surrounding the costs of building a nuclear power plant.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-NEA-head-highlights-challenges-facing-nuclear-power-110501.html

Sanders Wins West Virginia Primary - And No, It’s Not Inconsequential - Truthdig

Sanders Wins West Virginia Primary - And No, It’s Not Inconsequential - Truthdig

US NRC Blog Update: A Bit of NRC Myth Busting — Part II

A Bit of NRC Myth Busting — Part II

Leave a comment Posted by Moderator on May 11, 2016

Eric Stahl
Acting Public Affairs Officer
 As we said in yesterday’s Part I, we’ve taken a few of the interesting comments we’ve received on our Facebook page and posed them to our experts for their take on the question, suggestion or assertion. Here are their responses.
One user had several ideas for dealing with spent fuel including “mixing it in glass” and then burying it “in ice in Antarctica” or “blasting the glass off to Venus or Mars.”
 Mixing spent fuel with glass, a process known as “vitrification,” is one method that has been tested to treat nuclear waste in several countries. The idea supposes that mixing radioactive waste with other materials will create a more stable solution that won’t degrade over time.
In the U.S., over 50 million gallons of liquid waste from plutonium production at the Hanford site in Washington State will be vitrified and then stored onsite. DOE, who is responsible for oversight at Hanford, expects radioactivity levels in the material to greatly reduce in the future. If the country’s nuclear waste disposal policy was to turn toward vitrification, an application would need to come from the Department of Energy to the NRC. The NRC would be responsible for regulation.
However, burying vitrified spent fuel in Antarctica isn’t an option. Article V of the Antarctic Treaty of 1959, which the U.S. signed, prohibits the disposal of nuclear waste in Antarctica.
Sending vitrified spent fuel into space would be a risky and prohibitively expensive idea. According to NASA, it costs approximately $10,000 per pound to send things into orbit. Considering there’s currently more than 70,000 tons of spent fuel in the United States, shooting it into space wouldn’t be cost effective. In addition, a catastrophic accident involving a spacecraft hauling nuclear waste into space could cause radioactive material to contaminate the environment.
In any event, U.S. policy for spent fuel disposal is to place it in a deep geologic repository. Until and unless Congress changes the law, that will remain the policy.
And, finally, there are multiple comments about the wisdom and benefit of new reactor designs, especially one using fissile uranium salt.
The NRC is working to ensure we have the expertise available to review future advanced reactors (such as molten salt or high-temperature gas designs). The NRC will determine if those future designs are acceptable for U.S. use, and we’re working with the Department of Energy to inform advanced reactor designers how the review process will work. The NRC’s role, though, is regulating new designs, not initiating them.

NEI Urges White House To Keep "Nuclear Energy Policy Czar"

 

NEI Urges White House To Keep "Nuclear Energy Policy Czar"

The Nuclear Energy Institute said it was urging the White House to keep the position of National Security Council Director for Nuclear Energy Policy, which is reportedly about to be eliminated.

The NEI said it sent a letter to White House National Security Advisor Susan Rice, urging her to retain the position, which has informally been known as the “nuclear energy policy czar.”

The letter was signed by the NEI, the American Nuclear Society, the U.S. Nuclear Infrastructure Council and the think tank called Third Way. On its Web site, the NEI calls the position “crucial to ... U.S. civilihttp://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2016/05/10/nei-urges-white-house-to-keep-_2200_nuclear-energy-policy-czar_2200_-051002#.VzNClGYQFaV

SCE Responds: Will Fully Participate In Re-Opened San Onofre Debate

 

SCE Responds: Will Fully Participate In Re-Opened San Onofre Debate

Southern California Edison (SCE) said Tuesday that the 2014 decision on San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station decommissioning costs was fair and legal, but that it would fully participate in the re-opened public process that revisits that decision.

On Monday, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) had, essentially, re-opened Pandora's Box, saying they were seeking public comment concerning what portion of costs ratepayers and the utilities that own the plant, Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric, should each pay for decommissioning the plant that has been shut down since January 2012. Read more or comment >>>>http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2016/05/11/sce-responds_3a00_-will-fully-participate-in-re_2d00_opened-san-onofre-debate-051101#.VzNCbGYQFaV

Exelon Again Warns Of Clinton And Quad Cities NPP Closures

Exelon Again Warns Of Clinton And Quad Cities NPP Closures

Exelon said Friday that it would move forward with early retirements of its Clinton and Quad Cities nuclear power facilities if there were no policy actions in the state of Illinois that would give the company reason to reconsider.

Market considerations could also affect, the decision, Exelon said, noting that the retirements would proceed “if adequate legislation is not passed during the spring Illinois legislative session scheduled to end on May 31 and if, for Quad Cities, adequate legislation is not passed and the plant does not clear the upcoming PJM capacity auction later this month.” Read more and comment >>>> http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2016/05/09/exelon-again-warns-of-clinton-and-quad-cities-npp-closures-050902#.VzNCT2YQFaV

 

US: Neglected nation - FT.com

US: Neglected nation - FT.com

California regulators reopen San Onofre settlement

California regulators said Monday they will re-examine a settlement that made consumers responsible for covering some $3.3 billion in costs for closing the San Onofre nuclear power plant. … Continue Reading http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2016/05/california-regulators-reopen-san-onofre-settlement.html?cmpid=EnlDailyPowerMay112016&eid=288118515&bid=1401222

When will uranium emerge from the shadow of Fukushima?

When will uranium emerge from the shadow of Fukushima?
Read more at http://www.stockhouse.com/companies/bullboard/Bullboard/t.fcu/fission-uranium-corp#Yr4b5p6gOb67o0LW.99

http://www.stockhouse.com/companies/bullboard/t.fcu/fission-energy-corp?postid=24860864

Obama to call for nuclear weapons-free planet in Hiroshima: White House

http://punjabstarnews.com/obama-to-call-for-nuclear-weapons-free-planet-in-hiroshima-white-house/

Africa going nuclear?

Africa going nuclear?
https://www.issafrica.org/iss-today/africa-going-nuclear

Russia to test-fire massive nuclear missile

Russia to test-fire massive nuclear missile
http://islamtimes.org/en/doc/news/537932/

The 'evidence is clear' - cell phone radiation causes brain cancer, scientists conclude

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/053980_cell_phones_brain_cancer_scientific_evidence.html#ixzz48Lo7XULf

http://www.naturalnews.com/053980_cell_phones_brain_cancer_scientific_evidence.html

The Continued Importance of Nuclear Deterrence: Four Anti-Nuke Myths Busted

The Continued Importance of Nuclear Deterrence: Four Anti-Nuke Myths Busted

http://www.aim.org/guest-column/the-continued-importance-of-nuclear-deterrence-four-anti-nuke-myths-busted/

E.ON would pay roughly 10 bln eur under nuclear exit plans-CFO

http://af.reuters.com/article/commoditiesNews/idAFL5N18828B

Hibakusha abroad calls for U.S. consistency on elimination of nuclear weapons

http://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20160511/p2a/00m/0na/014000c

A look at nuclear energy in today's carbon constained world

A look at nuclear energy in today's carbon constained world

NRC: Staff Must Reanalyze Indian Point Accident Impacts

https://www.rtoinsider.com/nrc-indian-point-accident-26003/

6th nuclear reactor scrapped under stricter safety rules ‹ Japan Today: Japan News and Discussion

6th nuclear reactor scrapped under stricter safety rules ‹ Japan Today: Japan News and Discussion

Bigger Guns, Bigger Problems? How High-Powered Ammunition Could Affect Nuclear Power Plants

Bigger Guns, Bigger Problems? How High-Powered Ammunition Could Affect Nuclear Power Plants

UK Nuclear Power Market Report 2016-2030 - Analysis, Technologies & Forecasts - Research and Markets | Business Wire

UK Nuclear Power Market Report 2016-2030 - Analysis, Technologies & Forecasts - Research and Markets | Business Wire

The race to make plutonium-238, the nuclear power source we need to keep exploring space | Fusion

The race to make plutonium-238, the nuclear power source we need to keep exploring space | Fusion

Australian inquiry backs nuclear power after decades-long aversion | Reuters

Australian inquiry backs nuclear power after decades-long aversion | Reuters

Amendment to key security agreement enters into force

Amendment to key security agreement enters into force

Browns Ferry water tests could prevent power rate increases - Decatur Daily: Local News

Browns Ferry water tests could prevent power rate increases - Decatur Daily: Local News

California looks to Texas to solve nuclear waste problem | McClatchy DC

California looks to Texas to solve nuclear waste problem | McClatchy DC

Nuclear energy draws renewed interest in Congress - Houston Chronicle

Nuclear energy draws renewed interest in Congress - Houston Chronicle

US NRC Blog Update: A Bit of NRC Myth Busting — Part I

A Bit of NRC Myth Busting — Part I

Leave a comment Posted by Moderator on May 10, 2016

Eric Stahl
Acting Public Affairs Officer
We’ve taken a few of the interesting comments we’ve received on our Facebook page and posed them to our experts for their take on the question, suggestion or assertion. Here are their responses.
One Facebook user suggested that nuclear waste could be “encased in thick high strength concrete, then dropped into a churning volcano. It would sink into the magma and over a time it would disperse.” (We took the liberty of cleaning up the typos.)
Spent fuel must be handled and stored with care due to its radioactivity. The only way radioactive waste becomes harmless is through decay, which can take hundreds of thousands of years. As a result, the waste must be stored and disposed of in a way that provides protection to the public for a very long time.
Dropping spent fuel into an active volcano would run counter to this idea. Radioactive material could be released into the atmosphere, causing a hazard to people and the environment.
Another Facebook user, on our post about renewing licenses for nuclear power plants beyond the original license renewal, wrote this: “Beyond 60 years They are about to blow now you idiots.”
Contrary to what Hollywood often presents in television and movies, U.S. nuclear reactors are designed with numerous safety features, including containment buildings that continue to protect people and the environment. The nuclear fuel can’t explode, and many reinforcing safety systems would prevent or control the buildup of flammable gases during an accident.
NRC inspectors spend more than 6,000 hours (on average) performing inspection-related activities at each reactor site. In addition, the NRC has a robust aging management program to ensure that the country’s oldest reactors continue to operate safely. Keep in mind that regardless of the age of any reactor, the NRC has authority to address safety issues at any time.
Another Facebook commenter had concerns about the current dry cask storage system. He writes: “All that nuclear waste is being stored in the ground in what is supposed to be 5000 year containers, what if an earthquake hit the storage facility?”
All nuclear waste storage containers, known as “casks,” that are used to store spent fuel in the United States undergo a thorough safety review by the NRC before they’re certified for use. All casks licensed by the NRC must demonstrate their ability to withstand earthquakes and other natural hazards. Once the casks are put into use, they’re continuously monitored for leaks and periodically inspected by the NRC.
Come back tomorrow for Part II!