Saturday, December 3, 2016

By Nick Cunningham for the Oilprice.com. – December 1

Oil prices surged more than 8 percent on Wednesday as OPEC shocked the world and reached an agreement to cut production. If OPEC members succeed in implementing the deal, set to take effect in January, it could erase the global surplus in an instant. “The sentiment generally is optimistic and positive,” Saudi Arabia’s Oil Minister Khalid al-Falih said before the final meeting on Wednesday. “Any production-restraint agreement has to be distributed in an equitable way. We are getting close.” Oil prices skyrocketed on his comments and on the news that a deal was within reach. Still, there was a lot of confusion right down to the last minute, with some news outlets reporting a deal had been reached while others said that the details had not actually been agreed to, just the broader outline. Iraq in particular was a question mark, with reports saying that Iraqi officials were still disputing the “secondary sources” data well into the afternoon on Wednesday, even as oil prices were posting huge gains. Negotiations dragged on through the day, with only snippets of details emerging from reporters in Vienna. Read on...http://www.theenergycollective.com/staffjam/2394216/the-opec-deal-here-are-the-details

Want to Minimize Radiation from Power Generation? Build More Nuclear

Want to Minimize Radiation from Power Generation? Build More Nuclear

By Milton Caplan, nuclear industry advisor to utilities, governments and companies on new build nuclear projects and investments in uranium. – November 28

Yes, you read that right. For years, there have been efforts to demonstrate that people who live near nuclear plants or work at nuclear plants are getting sick from all that darn radiation they are receiving. Over the years these stories have been debunked as study after study has shown that there is no impact from radiation from living near or working at a nuclear plant. But now a study has been done that shows that of most of the options to generate electricity, nuclear actually releases the least amount of radiation. This is documented in UNSCEAR’s, the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation, most recent report to the United Nations General Assembly, on its study to consider the amount of radiation released from the life cycle of different types of electricity generation. Read on... http://www.theenergycollective.com/mzconsulting/2393871/want-to-minimize-radiation-from-power-generation-build-more-nuclear

Friday, December 2, 2016

Must We Now Rethink the Hillary Question? Absolutely, Not

Illinois passes Future Energy Jobs Bill

Illinois passes Future Energy Jobs Bill
Legislators in the US state of Illinois yesterday passed a bill recognising the contribution of nuclear energy to the state's clean energy efforts and ensuring the continued operation of the state's nuclear power plants. The Future Energy Jobs Bill will also advance renewable energy and expand energy efficiency initiatives. http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-Illinois-passes-Future-Energy-Jobs-Bill-0212167.html

NEI: Illinois Joins New York in Recognizing Value of Nuclear Power Plants

Nuclear Energy Institute
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 01, 2016

Contact: media@nei.org, 202.739.8000 or 703.644.8805 (after hours and weekends)

Illinois Joins New York in Recognizing Value of Nuclear Power Plants

Future Energy Jobs Bill Levels Field, Keeps Top Carbon-Free Energy Source

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Legislators in Illinois today passed the Future Energy Jobs Bill, a measure that will ensure the continued operation of the Clinton and Quad Cities nuclear power plants in that state. The two power stations employ 4,200 workers and have a combined generating capacity of more than 2,800 megawatts of electricity. In addition to provisions preserving the nuclear energy facilities to support cleaner air, the measure advances renewable energy development and expands energy efficiency initiatives. The action in Illinois comes after the New York Public Service Commission last August adopted a Clean Energy Standard that recognizes the economic and environmental benefits of commercial nuclear energy in that state. Following is a statement from Maria Korsnick, the Nuclear Energy Institute’s chief operating officer.
“This is a remarkable moment for the people of Illinois and for thousands of nuclear energy industry employees. Gov. Bruce Rauner and members of the Illinois General Assembly deserve immense credit for recognizing the unique value of the state’s nuclear power plants and their important role in its critical infrastructure.
“The Future Energy Jobs Bill, now headed to the governor’s desk, preserves more than $1.2 billion in annual economic activity across Illinois, including 4,200 direct jobs at Clinton and Quad Cities and thousands more jobs that the plants support.
“Despite characterizations by opposition that this legislation constitutes a bailout, to the contrary, it is an investment in Illinois’ clean energy future. The bill levels the playing field for nuclear energy with other carbon-free energy sources. The clean energy benefits from this action are significant. Between them, the Clinton and Quad Cities facilities prevent the emission of more than 20 million metric tons of carbon dioxide a year – the equivalent of taking nearly 5 million cars off the road.
“All the better, the Future Energy Jobs Bill protects ratepayers. Lawmakers are expanding clean energy at a cost well below 25 cents per month for typical residential customers. The long-term savings from not having to replace the electricity supply that Clinton and Quad Cities reliably generate is substantial. In New York, where Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the state Public Service Commission earlier this year acted to preserve upstate nuclear energy facilities, a Brattle Group study showed that the savings to customers from the plants’ continued operation was nearly $2 billion annually through 2024.
“Again, our thanks to Gov. Rauner and members of the Illinois General Assembly. Approval of this legislation is a tremendous achievement, and we look forward to the governor swiftly signing the Future Energy Jobs Bill into law.” http://www.nei.org/News-Media/Media-Room/News-Releases/Illinois-Joins-New-York-in-Recognizing-Value-of-Nu

The Energy Collective Daily: Why You Should Care about Low Carbon Fuels and Vehicle Initiatives

Why You Should Care about Low Carbon Fuels and Vehicle Initiatives | The Energy Collective Daily

Fermi 2 extension put on hold by feds - The Blade

Grand Gulf Nuclear, Source Of 20% Of Mississippi's Power, Gets License Renewed Until 2044

Creation of Philippine Nuclear Regulatory Commission underway – Update Philippines

Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists: Nuclear Roundup December 2, 2016

Nuclear Roundup

December 2, 2016

A compilation of quality nuclear policy news published on the Web, around the world.

Iran Nuclear Deal

Senate Votes to Extend Iran Sanctions Authority

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-12-02/shredding-iran-nuclear-deal-could-prove-harder-than-trump-thinks

Iran says U.S. extension of sanctions act violates nuclear deal

http://www.reuters.com/article/us-iran-nuclear-usa-idUSKBN13R0MO

Trump team eyes proposed new non-nuclear sanctions on Iran: FT

http://www.rawstory.com/2016/12/trump-team-eyes-proposed-new-non-nuclear-sanctions-on-iran-ft/

Iran’s nuclear deal just the tip of the iceberg for Trump

http://thehill.com/blogs/pundits-blog/international-affairs/308263-irans-nuclear-deal-just-the-tip-of-the-iceberg-for

Shredding Iran Nuclear Deal Could Prove Harder Than Trump Thinks

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-12-02/shredding-iran-nuclear-deal-could-prove-harder-than-trump-thinks

Heinonen: Concerns about a Reduction of Transparency in IAEA Reporting on Iran’s Nuclear Program

http://www.defenddemocracy.org/content/uploads/documents/112816_IAEA_Memo_Olli_.pdf

US

FY2017 NDAA Bill Conference Report

https://armedservices.house.gov/hearings-and-legislation/ndaa-national-defense-authorization-act

No one can stop President Trump from using nuclear weapons. That’s by design.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2016/12/01/no-one-can-stop-president-trump-from-using-nuclear-weapons-thats-by-design/?utm_term=.c1a66e778212

Donald Trump to face questions about modernizing America’s nuclear arsenal

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/donald-trump-to-face-questions-about-modernizing-americas-nuclear-arsenal/

Moniz: A comprehensive nuclear test ban

http://science.sciencemag.org/content/354/6316/1081

This Is Life at a Post-War Nuclear Weapons Factory

http://kcts9.org/programs/battle-ready-earthfix/life-post-war-nuclear-weapons-factory

DOE project to evaluate safety of transporting used nuclear fuel

http://phys.org/news/2016-12-doe-safety-nuclear-fuel.html

Ex-defense secretary to speak at nuclear ‘boot camp’

http://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/ex-defense-secretary-to-speak-at-nuclear-boot-camp/article_a3e956bd-2bb8-5b1f-95b9-87eed416700a.html

International

Who killed the US-Russia plutonium agreement, and does it really matter?

http://thebulletin.org/who-killed-us-russia-plutonium-agreement-and-does-it-really-matter10221

Russia sets out its policy on terrorism, nuclear war & global ties in new Foreign Policy Concept

https://www.rt.com/news/368927-russia-foreign-policy-concept/

UK launches nuclear skills Strategic Plan

http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NP-UK-launches-nuclear-skills-Strategic-Plan-01121601.html

General Interest

After 60 years, is nuclear fusion finally poised to deliver?

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/dec/02/after-60-years-is-nuclear-fusion-finally-poised-to-deliver

Nuking Hurricanes: The Surprising History of a Really Bad Idea

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2016/11/hurricanes-weather-history-nuclear-weapons/

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Clinton nuclear plant has history of cost, job uncertainty - News - The State Journal-Register - Springfield, IL

NRC Approves Riverstone Holding Acquisition Of Susquehanna NPP - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Michigan nuclear power plant's license extension on hold - Washington Times

Nuclear power benefits millions | Opinions and Editorials | aikenstandard.com

3 Fast Facts On CCPI Pushing For Bataan Nuclear Plant Revival | International Business Times Philippines

Trump: Bad News for U.S. Nuclear Power?

Daily Caller News Foundation Nuclear Power Is ‘Most Sustainable Energy Source,’ According To UN Official

Nuclear Power Is ‘Most Sustainable Energy Source,’ According To UN Official

http://dailycaller.com/2016/12/01/nuclear-power-is-most-sustainable-energy-source-according-to-un-official/

Diamond battery made from nuclear waste could last more than 5,000 YEARS | Daily Mail Online

Russia invents method of producing nuclear fuel - 抓站 News - SINA English

Expert: Obama fails to progress towards world free of nuclear arms | Prague Monitor

New powerful 'diamond' battery made from nuclear waste developed | Daily Mail Online

Cuomo's nuclear subsidy plan faces another legal challenge

Cuomo's nuclear subsidy plan faces another legal challenge
https://newsdesk.moreover.com/click/?p=Q1QyL2E9Mjg3OTUwNzQ3NzMmcD0xNGUmdj0xJng9U1FCVDVTa2x3MmVvY01zY2tDYldXQSZ1MT1ORCZ1Mj1nMTA2Ng&a=28795074773&f=TmV3cw&s=ZXhwb3J0&u=amtvYmxpY2hAYW5zLm9yZw&cn=QW1lcmljYW4gTnVjbGVhciBTb2NpZXR5&ci=416&i=0&e=UE9MSVRJQ08gUHJv&d=1104&t=3&k=189032&ck=2796619de5274051e03690ebff81a17d

Girl's death reveals risks of obsolete Detroit power lines

The electrocution of a 12-year-old Detroit girl has exposed a new risk in a city that's turning the corner nearly two years after emerging from bankruptcy: miles of obsolete power lines that could fall from poles and turn deadly. … Continue Reading http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2016/12/power-cable-girl-s-death-reveals-risks-of-obsolete-detroit-power-lines.html?cmpid=enl_PennEnergy_PennEnergyWeeklyPowerUpdates_2016-12-02&email_address=micheletkearney@gmail.com&eid=288118515&bid=1603128

Obama's dirty secret: the fossil fuel projects the US littered around the world

Through the Export-Import Bank, the Obama administration has spent nearly $34bn on dirty energy plants in countries from India to Australia to South Africa
by Sonali Prasad, Jason Burke, Michael Slezak and Oliver Milman

https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/dec/01/obama-fossil-fuels-us-export-import-bank-energy-projects?utm_source=MIT+TR+Newsletters&utm_campaign=36119f8317-newsletters-the-download&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_997ed6f472-36119f8317-153856085&goal=0_997ed6f472-36119f8317-153856085&mc_cid=36119f8317&mc_eid=e25735476a

The Paris Motor Show Confirms It: The Future Is Electric

Any automaker worth its salt is showing off a battery-powered car.

https://www.technologyreview.com/s/602512/the-paris-motor-show-confirms-it-the-future-is-electric/?utm_source=MIT+TR+Newsletters&utm_campaign=36119f8317-newsletters-the-download&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_997ed6f472-36119f8317-153856085&goal=0_997ed6f472-36119f8317-153856085&mc_cid=36119f8317&mc_eid=e25735476a

US DOE sells depleted uranium for laser enrichment

http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/UF-US-DOE-sells-depleted-uranium-for-laser-enrichment-1111167.html

Iraq Can’t Commit To OPEC’s Oil Output Deal

By By Bilal Wahab, / Thursday, December 1, 2016 10:00 AM

Despite pressure from OPEC to cap its oil production, the Iraqi government can neither afford a production cut nor enforce it upon the Kurdistan Regional Government. Under tremendous fiscal pressure, OPEC members may cut a deal in Vienna this week that would cap oil production in order to raise global prices. The deal is being

Keep reading →http://breakingenergy.com/2016/12/01/iraq-cant-commit-to-opecs-oil-output-deal/?utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=38594903&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_D_xdaHi_zIX1jcF4BOWavAOn7uGDxp-ID8ZMVqrph-T6UQxPNTunU3KurQMPi4YDMcXltd5U_Gw5L3gVdJL8osiJQew&_hsmi=38594903

Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists Friday, December 2, 2016

Friday, December 2, 2016

OPLAN 2045: Preparing for nuclear disarmament

James E. Doyle

With the nuclear-weapon states and their allies headed away from the increased security a world without nuclear weapons would bring, it is time to act to create a multilateral plan for verifiable nuclear disarmament by the year 2045, 100 years after the first use of nuclear weapons.

Will climate-change efforts affect EU–Russian relations? (Probably not.)

Rachel S. Salzman

Given the fact that changes in the European energy market can have significant geopolitical effects, it might seem like EU emissions-cutting policies could cause serious changes in the EU–Russia relationship. From the November/December subscription journal.

It's more important than ever to stay up on the Nuclear Roundup
Sign up to receive Jodi Lieberman's Nuclear Roundup. Discover why so many readers find this daily summary of nuclear-related news simply indispensable.

New Voices of Tomorrow essay: Who killed the US-Russia plutonium agreement, and does it really matter?

Darya Dolzikova

If a nuclear security agreement dies, but it wasn’t really about the nuclear security, does it matter who killed it?

Chairman Xi abandons banning the bomb

Hua Han, Gregory Kulacki, Rajesh Rajagopalan

Greg Kulacki closes the second round of our new debate on China's role in the nuclear order by observing that Beijing's position on the UN resolution to ban nuclear weapons could be a bellwether for how China will behave in a world that's no longer ordered around the United States.

What We're Reading

Dan Drollette Jr.

This week we look at a study from the latest issue of Nature, which finds that as soil warms due to climate change, vast amounts of carbon and methane will be released into the atmosphere.

#GivingTuesday campaign a huge success

We'd like to send our warmest thanks to everyone who contributed to a successful Giving Tuesday campaign. We raised over $5,000 toward the Bulletin's Next Generation programs, made all the more special because the median average gift during the day was $50. You are making it possible for us to recruit and publish new authors and columnists--and to recognize today's emerging leaders.

If you did not get a chance to participate, you can still make a gift today and give the Next Generation of changemakers a good shot at creating a safer and healthier planet.

NEUTRINOS in a New Light
Ellen Sandor is Fermilab's 2016 artist-in-residence and a friend of the Bulletin. She and (art)n, the collaborative artists group she founded, spent months speaking with Fermilab scientists and learning about the ways they study subatomic particles called neutrinos. She created a series of new works that visualize the invisible science of particle physics. The exhibit, “NEUTRINOS in a New Light,” will be on display at the Fermilab Art Gallery from Dec. 2, 2016, through March 17, 2017.
About the Bulletin

For more than 70 years the Bulletin has engaged science leaders, policy makers, and the interested public on topics of nuclear weapons and disarmament, the changing energy landscape, climate change, and emerging technologies.

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Thursday, December 1, 2016

Donald Trump's Biggest Headache: Russia's Nuclear Weapons | The National Interest

Next Big Future: China's plans to begin converting coal plants to walk away safe pebble bed nuclear starting in the 2020s

European Union Climate Policies Aim To Cut CO2 Emissions By 40% By 2030, Lead Clean Energy Transition | CleanTechnica

President Obama Spent ‘Unprecedented’ Billions on Fossil Fuel Projects Around the World

http://www.truthdig.com/eartotheground/item/obama_spent_an_unprecedented_billions_on_fossil_20161201

The nuclear renaissance?

http://cyprus-mail.com/2016/12/01/the-nuclear-renaissance/

Electricité de France has had to shut down 18 of its 58 nuclear reactors

France’s nuclear-energy champion is in turmoil

Electricité de France has had to shut down 18 of its 58 nuclear reactors

http://www.economist.com/news/business/21711087-electricit-de-france-has-had-shut-down-18-its-58-nuclear-reactors-frances-nuclear-energy

SOUTH AFRICA PURSUES NUCLEAR POWER DESPITE RISKS

http://www.blackstarnews.com/global-politics/global-politics/south-africa-pursues-nuclear-power-despite-risks.html

African geologists warn of possible ‘Fukushima’ at site of proposed nuclear reactor

http://www.frostillustrated.com/2016/african-geologists-warn-of-possible-fukushima-at-site-of-proposed-nuclear-reactor/

UCS SCIENCE NETWORK WORKSHOP SERIES: Role of Science in the New Political Era

Join us December 7

With a Trump administration approaching, we will need to stand strong for science now more than ever—and we need you to join us.

Attend this webinar to learn why it's so critical for scientists and experts to be involved, and how: Wednesday, December 7, 1:00-2:00 p.m. EDT.

Register Today