Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Friday, October 5, 2018

UK decommissioning research centre opens - World Nuclear News

UK decommissioning research centre opens - World Nuclear News: The Centre for Innovative Nuclear Decommissioning Engineering has officially opened in Workington with the aim of innovating and delivering future engineering leaders, supporting the UK's nuclear decommissioning programme in west Cumbria.

Improvements seen in Hungary's regulatory framework - World Nuclear News

Improvements seen in Hungary's regulatory framework - World Nuclear News: Hungary has made "significant improvements" to its regulatory framework for nuclear and radiation safety since 2015, an International Atomic Energy Agency follow-up mission has concluded.

Russia and India sign action plan on new projects - World Nuclear News

Russia and India sign action plan on new projects - World Nuclear News: Russia and India have agreed to work together to increase the level of Indian localisation in a project to build six nuclear units at a new site in India. The Action Plan for Prioritisation and Implementation of Cooperation Areas in the Nuclear Field was signed today on the sidelines of the 19th India-Russia Bilateral Summit in New Delhi.

Conference: Nuclear gains ground in political debate - World Nuclear News

Conference: Nuclear gains ground in political debate - World Nuclear News: Russian Energy Week, a Moscow-based annual conference and exhibition traditionally devoted to hydrocarbons, has for the second time included a session about the nuclear power industry. Claire-Louise Isted, editor of World Nuclear News, reports here on the increasing prominence of the world's best hope against climate change.

France no longer ties Fessenheim shutdown to start-up of new nuclear reactor | Reuters

France no longer ties Fessenheim shutdown to start-up of new nuclear reactor | Reuters: French Ecology Minister Francois de Rugy said on Thursday the closure of the country's oldest nuclear plant at Fessenheim was not conditional on the start-up of a new reactor that utility EDF is building, and that it would be decommissioned by 2022.

REFILE-EDF says Meuse river flow could restrict output at Chooz nuclear plant | Agricultural Commodities | Reuters

REFILE-EDF says Meuse river flow could restrict output at Chooz nuclear plant | Agricultural Commodities | Reuters: (Fixes headline)

Opinion | America’s Military-Industrial Base Is at Risk - The New York Times

Opinion | America’s Military-Industrial Base Is at Risk - The New York Times

Declining Commercial Nuclear Industry Creates Risk for Navy Carriers, Subs - USNI News

Declining Commercial Nuclear Industry Creates Risk for Navy Carriers, Subs - USNI News

Nuclear power plant Columbia Generating Station sets electricity record | Tri-City Herald

Nuclear power plant Columbia Generating Station sets electricity record | Tri-City Herald

INL awards contracts for test reactor research - KIFI

INL awards contracts for test reactor research - KIFI: The Idaho National Laboratory has launched an effort to develop the instruments and tools needed to develop a proposed fast spectrum test reactor.

INL awards contracts for test reactor research - KIFI

INL awards contracts for test reactor research - KIFI

U.S. indicts Russians in hacking of nuclear company Westinghouse | Reuters

U.S. indicts Russians in hacking of nuclear company Westinghouse | Reuters: The United States on Thursday charged seven Russian intelligence officers with conspiring to hack computers and steal data from the nuclear energy company Westinghouse Electric Co as well as anti-doping watchdogs, sporting federations and an international agency probing the use of chemical weapons.

Regulators: Brunswick Nuclear reactors shut down, safe | Essex Caller

Regulators: Brunswick Nuclear reactors shut down, safe | Essex Caller: By Travis Fain, WRAL statehouse reporter — The Brunswick Nuclear Plant near Southport remains shut down and difficult to reach but poses no threat,

KHNP gets US standard design accreditation for nuclear power plant design - Korea IT Times

KHNP gets US standard design accreditation for nuclear power plant design - Korea IT Times: The U.S. nuclear regulatory authority said that the design of the Korea-type nuclear power plant APR1400 is safe. As a result, Korea's nuclear power plant is expected to be more competitive in U.S. exports.Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power Corporation (KHNP) announced on Oct. 4 that it received a st

General Atomics Joins the Nuclear Energy Institute in Support of a Department of Defense Micro-Reactor Program

General Atomics Joins the Nuclear Energy Institute in Support of a Department of Defense Micro-Reactor Program: GA micro-reactor will build on decades of work on small reactors and advanced materials

NRC Names New Senior Resident Inspector at Pilgrim Nuclear Plant

NRC Names New Senior Resident Inspector at Pilgrim Nuclear Plant

Improvements seen in Hungary's regulatory framework - World Nuclear News

Improvements seen in Hungary's regulatory framework - World Nuclear News: Hungary has made "significant improvements" to its regulatory framework for nuclear and radiation safety since 2015, an International Atomic Energy Agency follow-up mission has concluded.

Plymouth: NRC Appoints New Senior Resident Inspector at Pilgrim

Plymouth: NRC Appoints New Senior Resident Inspector at Pilgrim: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has just appointed a new Senior Resident Inspector at Pilgrim Nuclear […]

County judge candidates: Nuclear waste resolution reflects community sentiments - Midland Reporter-Telegram

County judge candidates: Nuclear waste resolution reflects community sentiments - Midland Reporter-Telegram: Midland County judge candidates Steven Schafersman and Terry Johnson seem to agree with a nuclear waste transportation resolution passed by the Commissioners' Court.

Fuel Loading Completed at Russian Floating Nuclear Plant - Power Engineering

Fuel Loading Completed at Russian Floating Nuclear Plant - Power Engineering

Is the global nuclear industry Russia's latest power play?

Is the global nuclear industry Russia's latest power play?

TASS: Business & Economy - Russia to build six nuclear power units at a new site in India

TASS: Business & Economy - Russia to build six nuclear power units at a new site in India

Conference: Nuclear gains ground in political debate - World Nuclear News

Conference: Nuclear gains ground in political debate - World Nuclear News: Russian Energy Week, a Moscow-based annual conference and exhibition traditionally devoted to hydrocarbons, has for the second time included a session about the nuclear power industry. Claire-Louise Isted, editor of World Nuclear News, reports here on the increasing prominence of the world's best hope against climate change.

India Russia relations: India, Russia sign civil nuclear Action Plan for second plant; third country project

India Russia relations: India, Russia sign civil nuclear Action Plan for second plant; third country project

'We can’t prevail against a nuclear power': Hamas' Gaza chief says he doesn't want war with Israel - Israel News - Haaretz.com

'We can’t prevail against a nuclear power': Hamas' Gaza chief says he doesn't want war with Israel - Israel News - Haaretz.com

Nuclear Power Plant and Equipment Market to Reach $49.04 Bn, Globally, By 2025 At 3.7% CAGR, Says AMR

Nuclear Power Plant and Equipment Market to Reach $49.04 Bn, Globally, By 2025 At 3.7% CAGR, Says AMR: PORTLAND, Oregon, October 5, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Increased adoption of cleaner alternatives for energy production coupled with rising demand for electricity...

Earth's First Nuclear Reactor Is 1.7 Billion Years Old And Was Made Naturally

Earth's First Nuclear Reactor Is 1.7 Billion Years Old And Was Made Naturally: Planets can 'discover' nuclear power on their own, naturally, without any intelligence. Earth did it 1.7 billion years before humans.

US indicts seven Russians for hacking nuclear power firm Westinghouse - France 24

US indicts seven Russians for hacking nuclear power firm Westinghouse - France 24: The United States on Thursday indicted seven Russian intelligence officers for conspiring to hack computers and steal data, including attempts to break into the computer networks of the nuclear power company Westinghouse Electric Co.

U.S. Indicts Russians In Conspiracy To Hack Nuclear Energy Company, Doping Watchdogs | HuffPost

U.S. Indicts Russians In Conspiracy To Hack Nuclear Energy Company, Doping Watchdogs | HuffPost

US indicts 7 Russians for hacking nuclear power company | ABS-CBN News

US indicts 7 Russians for hacking nuclear power company | ABS-CBN News: WASHINGTON - The United States on Thursday indicted seven Russian intelligence officers for conspiring to hack computers and steal data, including attempts to break into the computer networks of the nuclear power company Westinghouse Electric Co.

US charges Russian GRU officers with hacking athletes, nuclear power company - CNET

US charges Russian GRU officers with hacking athletes, nuclear power company - CNET: The intelligence officers also allegedly targeted antidoping and anti-chemical weapons bodies.

Nuclear power plant Columbia Generating Station sets electricity record | Tri-City Herald

Nuclear power plant Columbia Generating Station sets electricity record | Tri-City Herald

Nuclear Power Roundup: New Milestones Reached on Several Reactors

Nuclear Power Roundup: New Milestones Reached on Several Reactors

Russian hackers indicted for targeting nuclear firm Westinghouse Electric | Utility Dive

Russian hackers indicted for targeting nuclear firm Westinghouse Electric | Utility Dive: Utility industry news, voices and jobs for energy industry professionals. Optimized for your mobile phone.

Washington-Moscow nuclear verification: Tensions and solutions - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

Washington-Moscow nuclear verification: Tensions and solutions - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists: The outlook for further US-Russian arms control is not bright today, but both sides should develop new verification techniques in case unexpected breakthroughs occur.

For a Second Time, Iran Fires Missiles At IS Targets in Syria


For a Second Time, Iran Fires Missiles At IS Targets in Syria

By By Farzin Nadimi,   /  October 4, 2018 10:00 AM

Tehran likely used the attack to demonstrate its unhindered regional reach, while flashing its enhanced deterrent posture through the testing of new military hardware. In the early hours of Monday, October 1, according to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Iran launched six surface-to-surface missiles across Iraq at “takfiri” (apostate) targets in Syria east of
Keep reading →https://breakingenergy.com/2018/10/04/for-a-second-time-iran-fires-missiles-at-is-targets-in-syria/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy+Newsletters+Master+List&utm_campaign=d27b4df4c1-MAILCHIMP_BD_DAILY&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_88392479a3-d27b4df4c1-411632309

Thursday, October 4, 2018

Be Like Marie: Why Women are the Breakthrough Nuclear Needs — Environmental Progress

Be Like Marie: Why Women are the Breakthrough Nuclear Needs — Environmental Progress: Nuclear power is in trouble. What should be done? The conventional wisdom holds that a techno-fix, like a radically new design, or new construction techniques, will save nuclear. But such a view assumes that nuclear’s underlying problems are technical. They’re not. Public acceptance remains the main

How Nations Go Nuclear: An Interview With M.I.T.'s Vipin Narang


How Nations Go Nuclear: An Interview With M.I.T.'s Vipin Narang


http://environmentalprogress.org/big-news/2018/8/28/vipin-narang-interview

Nuclear Power Roundup: New Milestones Reached on Several Reactors

Nuclear Power Roundup: New Milestones Reached on Several Reactors

Fukushima Update 9/4/18

Fukushima Update 9/4/18 –

Tepco says as much as 80% of the treated water stored at F. Daiichi exceeds Japan’s release limits, which are by-far the most restrictive in the world.

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

Arguments on nuclear power have moved on from ‘do we have it, do we not’ – Richard Harrington MP | PoliticsHome.com

Arguments on nuclear power have moved on from ‘do we have it, do we not’ – Richard Harrington MP | PoliticsHome.com

Energy crisis, nuclear safety and the security of Pakistan - Daily Times

Energy crisis, nuclear safety and the security of Pakistan - Daily Times: Speaking in the favour of the peaceful use of nuclear energy, on 8 December 1953, President Eisenhower highlighted the significance of nuclear energy to the world by maintaining that, “It is not enough to take this weapon out of the hands of soldiers. It must be put into the hands of those who will know …

UPDATE 4-South Africa's Zuma fired me for blocking Russian nuclear power deal - Nene | Reuters

UPDATE 4-South Africa's Zuma fired me for blocking Russian nuclear power deal - Nene | Reuters: South Africa's Finance Minister Nhlanhla Nene told a judicial corruption inquiry on Wednesday that he was fired by former president Jacob Zuma for refusing to approve a $100 billion nuclear power deal with Russia in 2015.

Nuclear option should stay - Letters | The Star Online

Nuclear option should stay - Letters | The Star Online

Three Mile Island employees worry about future if nuclear plant closes | Press & Journal

Three Mile Island employees worry about future if nuclear plant closes | Press & Journal

Nigeria’s nuclear power programme gets Rosatom approval – Punch Newspapers

Nigeria’s nuclear power programme gets Rosatom approval – Punch Newspapers

Asbestos found at San Onofre Units 2 and 3; nuclear plant officials say issue 'not unexpected' - The San Diego Union-Tribune

Asbestos found at San Onofre Units 2 and 3; nuclear plant officials say issue 'not unexpected' - The San Diego Union-Tribune: The nuclear plant's operator, Southern California Edison, says the discovery of asbestos does not pose any serious harm to workers or the general public.

Nuclear Plant Construction Delay and Cost 2 | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Nuclear Plant Construction Delay and Cost 2 | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Advanced Nuclear Advances and Retreats | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Advanced Nuclear Advances and Retreats | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Nuclear Energy Leadership Bill Next Step Towards Brighter Future


Nuclear Energy Leadership Bill Next Step Towards Brighter Future

http://ansnuclearcafe.org/2018/09/27/nuclear-energy-leadership-bill-next-step-towards-brighter-future/#sthash.uaYFQw8u.dpbs

Navigating Nuclear with Bob Fine and Dr. Eric Loewen

Navigating Nuclear with Bob Fine and Dr. Eric Loewen



http://ansnuclearcafe.org/2018/10/03/navigating-nuclear-with-eric-loewen-bob-fine/

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire October 4, 2018

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire
October 4, 2018

Dr. Rita Baranwal to be Nominated for Assistant Sec. of Nuclear Energy

Yesterday afternoon, President Trump announced his intent to nominate Dr. Rita Baranwal for Assistant Secretary of Energy (Nuclear Energy) at the Department of Energy. 
 
Dr. Baranwal is currently the Director of the Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) initiative. She has also served as Director of Technology Development & Application at Westinghouse and was a manager in Materials Technology at Bechtel Bettis, Inc., where she led Research and Development in nuclear fuel materials for U.S. naval reactors. 

CNL launches Centre for Reactor Sustainability - World Nuclear News

CNL launches Centre for Reactor Sustainability - World Nuclear News: Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) has launched the Centre for Reactor Sustainability, bringing together its broad research capabilities to support the sustainable, long-term operations of the world's nuclear power reactors.

IAEA assesses operational safety of Torness plant - World Nuclear News

IAEA assesses operational safety of Torness plant - World Nuclear News: The managers of the Torness nuclear power plant in the UK are committed to improving the operational safety and reliability of the two-unit plant, a team of experts led by the International Atomic Energy Agency has concluded.

Head of local DOE program nominated to lead Office of Nuclear energy


Head of local DOE program nominated to lead Office of Nuclear energy

https://www.postregister.com/news/government/head-of-local-doe-program-nominated-to-lead-office-of/article_56a42a2a-1a91-5ef1-a114-8779d1ca38ca.html

Farewell to Leon Lederman


 

Farewell to Leon Lederman, Chair Emeritus of the Bulletin's Board of Sponsors
 
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Leon Lederman, Nobel Laureate, Director Emeritus of Fermilab, and Chair Emeritus of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists’ Board of Sponsors.

Lederman’s scientific accomplishments are well-known: work in founding the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), where he was director from 1978 to 1989; the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1988; the National Medal of Science; the Enrico Fermi Prize; and many others. What is perhaps less well-known was his accessibility to young scientists, a remarkable sense of humor, and a deep, abiding passion for communicating the joy of science to the wider public and to students everywhere.

“Leon had an uncanny ability to focus in on the most important aspects of any issue, and he brought that ability to the Bulletin’s Board of Sponsors, where he served for many years before becoming board chair in 2001,” said Rachel Bronson, president and CEO of the organization. “His presence in our community will be greatly missed.”

Lederman served as Chair, and then Co-Chair, of the Bulletin’s Board of Sponsors from 2001 to 2015; he was elected Chair Emeritus in 2015. He passed away at his home in Rexburg, Idaho and is survived by his wife of 37 years, Ellen, as well as three children, Rena, Jesse, and Rachel, with his first wife, Florence Gordon.
 
 

Bringing 21st-Century Innovation to the U.S. Nuclear Industry

Bringing 21st-Century Innovation to the U.S. Nuclear Industry: In just the past decade, nuclear physicists and entrepreneurs have developed innovate commercial reactor designs that are smaller, cheaper and safer than current technology.

How to Jump-Start a Micro Nuclear Reactor Industry in the US


How to Jump-Start a Micro Nuclear Reactor Industry in the US

Small and micro reactors could revitalize America’s nuclear sector—with some policy changes—argues a new paper from The Breakthrough Institute, the R Street Institute and Clearpath.

https://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/how-to-jumpstart-a-micro-nuclear-reactor-industry-in-the-us?utm_source=Breakthrough+Newsletter&utm_campaign=03273c06c2-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_04_02_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_49b872540e-03273c06c2-44370641#gs.HWXDzpE

RIP Transatomic Power Long Live the Advanced Nuclear Industry

 

RIP Transatomic Power

Long Live the Advanced Nuclear Industry


https://thebreakthrough.org/index.php/voices/ted-nordhaus/rip-transatomic-power?utm_source=Breakthrough+Newsletter&utm_campaign=03273c06c2-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_04_02_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_49b872540e-03273c06c2-44370641

Planting the Seeds of a Distributed Nuclear Revolution

 

Planting the Seeds of a Distributed Nuclear Revolution


The Case for Expedited Licensing and Commercialization of Micronuclear Reactors


https://thebreakthrough.org/index.php/issues/nuclear/planting-the-seeds-of-a-distributed-nuclear-revolution?utm_source=Breakthrough+Newsletter&utm_campaign=03273c06c2-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_04_02_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_49b872540e-03273c06c2-44370641

Jacobs secures Dounreay decommissioning work - World Nuclear News

Jacobs secures Dounreay decommissioning work - World Nuclear News: USA-based Jacobs Engineering Group has been awarded two four-year framework agreements by the UK's Dounreay Site Restoration Limited to provide design and engineering services, and safety case production and peer review services.

IAEA completes Luxembourg waste management review - World Nuclear News

IAEA completes Luxembourg waste management review - World Nuclear News: Luxembourg's programme for managing its small amount of radioactive waste shows a commitment to safety and a pragmatic approach to waste management, but could be further enhanced by strengthening the national regulatory framework, a team of International Atomic Energy Agency experts has found.

Centrus to prepare Oak Ridge facility for demolition - World Nuclear News

Centrus to prepare Oak Ridge facility for demolition - World Nuclear News: Centrus Energy Corp has been awarded a USD15 million work authorisation by the US Department of Energy for decontamination and decommissioning to prepare the K-1600 facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, for demolition.

Russia loads fuel into floating power plant - World Nuclear News

Russia loads fuel into floating power plant - World Nuclear News: Russia yesterday completed loading fuel into the two reactors of its first floating nuclear power plant, Akademik Lomonosov.

Exelon Applauds Ruling Affirming Zero Emissions Credit Plan - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Exelon Applauds Ruling Affirming Zero Emissions Credit Plan - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers: The latest nuclear news in Nuclear Power Industry about utilities, companies, suppliers in the nuclear energy market.

ASN Widens Probe Of Flamanville 3 Welding - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

ASN Widens Probe Of Flamanville 3 Welding - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers: The latest nuclear news in Nuclear Power Industry about utilities, companies, suppliers in the nuclear energy market.

US AP1000 project owners set new risk terms; NuScale SMR enters manufacturing phase

 

US AP1000 project owners set new risk terms; NuScale SMR enters manufacturing phase


https://analysis.nuclearenergyinsider.com/us-ap1000-project-owners-set-new-risk-terms-nuscale-smr-enters-manufacturing-phase?utm_campaign=NEI%2003OCT18%20Newsletter%20Version%20B&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&elqTrackId=205a997abcbb4944907df6cd7d67181f&elq=c09cda9dffd14eb19c2f1cdd46c1ca77&elqaid=39890&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=21698

Infographics: US decommissioning market takes off as closures mount

 

Infographics: US decommissioning market takes off as closures mount

https://analysis.nuclearenergyinsider.com/infographics-us-decommissioning-market-takes-closures-mount?utm_campaign=NEI%2003OCT18%20Newsletter%20Version%20B&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&elqTrackId=5a6a7ab5436f4d62911afcb8b81cf044&elq=c09cda9dffd14eb19c2f1cdd46c1ca77&elqaid=39890&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=21698

Florida decommissioning cost drop signals nuclear industry progress


Florida decommissioning cost drop signals nuclear industry progress


https://analysis.nuclearenergyinsider.com/florida-decommissioning-cost-drop-signals-nuclear-industry-progress?utm_campaign=NEI%2003OCT18%20Newsletter%20Version%20B&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&elqTrackId=fb2cdf00ff5d45fdb3c1a2263ccc8b8f&elq=c09cda9dffd14eb19c2f1cdd46c1ca77&elqaid=39890&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=21698

Ahead of Three Mile Island closing, nuclear safety advocates call attention to waste | PennLive.com

Ahead of Three Mile Island closing, nuclear safety advocates call attention to waste | PennLive.com

IIAEA Mission Sees Significant Improvements in Hungary’s Regulatory Framework

IAEA Mission Sees Significant Improvements in Hungary’s Regulatory Framework

42/2018
Budapest, Hungary
An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts said Hungary has made significant improvements to its regulatory framework for nuclear and radiation safety since 2015.
The Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) team concluded on 1 October an eight-day follow-up mission to review Hungary’s implementation of recommendations and suggestions made during a 2015 visit. The mission was conducted at the request of the Government of Hungary and hosted by the Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority (HAEA), in coordination with the Office of the Chief Medical Officer and the Baranya County Government Office.
IRRS missions are designed to strengthen the effectiveness of the national nuclear regulatory infrastructure, using IAEA safety standards and international good practices, while recognizing the responsibility of each country to ensure nuclear and radiation safety.
Hungary generates half its electricity at four reactors at the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, located 130 km south of the capital, Budapest. Hungary is planning to build another two reactors at Paks, and operates two research reactors for training and research as well as isotope production.
The scope of the 2015 and the 2018 IRRS missions covered all regulated facilities and activities.
The IRRS team observed that Hungary has been successful in addressing the findings identified during the 2015 mission related to the complex distribution of regulatory responsibilities.
"Hungary has gone through a significant transition during which they were successful in addressing many of the recommendations and suggestions identified during the initial mission,” said team leader Michael Johnson, Deputy Executive Director for Reactor and Preparedness Programs at the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission. "While additional work remains to ensure effective implementation, Hungary has demonstrated its dedication to continuous improvement and focus on safety.”
The team found that since 2015, the HAEA has taken positive steps to, among others:
  • Ensure the effective independence of the regulatory body
  • Simplify the distribution of roles and responsibilities of the different regulatory authorities
  • Maintain regulatory stability and ensure effective knowledge transfer throughout the redistribution of regulatory responsibilities
“HAEA would like to thank the independent experts and the IAEA for their participation in this review mission,” said Gyula Fichtinger, Director General of HAEA. “I would like to reassure them of our commitment to incorporate the recommendations and suggestions into our activities and continue to improve in line with internationally recognized good practices.”
“The mission demonstrated that Hungary continues to place appropriate focus on implementing a framework that provides for effective protection of public health and safety,” said Greg Rzentkowski, Director, Division of Nuclear Installation Safety. “The progress achieved to date significantly enhanced regulatory effectiveness and transparency.”
The 11-member IRRS team comprised senior regulatory experts from Finland, France, Greece, Pakistan, Slovenia, the United States as well as four IAEA staff members.
The final mission report will be provided to the Government in about three months. The Government plans to make the report public.

NRC Makes Public White Paper Suggesting Requirement to Evaluate Information Received from Third Parties - Lexology

NRC Makes Public White Paper Suggesting Requirement to Evaluate Information Received from Third Parties - Lexology: In late September, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) made public a White Paper that it had initially issued internally to the Office of…

NRC issues draft safety evaluation for nuclear plant | Local News | newburyportnews.com

NRC issues draft safety evaluation for nuclear plant | Local News | newburyportnews.com

US Congressmen Reportedly Wary of Saudi Arabia's Nuclear Ambitions - Sputnik International

US Congressmen Reportedly Wary of Saudi Arabia's Nuclear Ambitions - Sputnik International: US lawmakers have warned that Saudi Arabia’s pursuit of nuclear capabilities has the potential to evolve into an “arms race” in the Middle East.

Russian expert says 'no doubt' Putin has nuclear missiles in Crimea | Daily Mail Online

Russian expert says 'no doubt' Putin has nuclear missiles in Crimea | Daily Mail Online

U.S. uranium imports continue as domestic production remains at historical lows | AJOT.COM

U.S. uranium imports continue as domestic production remains at historical lows | AJOT.COM: During 2017, owners and operators of U.S. nuclear power plants purchased 40 million pounds of uranium from foreign suppliers. Canada, Australia, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan represented the top five countries of origin and together accounted for 84% of total U.S. uranium purchases in 2017.

DOJ charges 7 Russian intelligence operatives with hacking

DOJ charges 7 Russian intelligence operatives with hacking: Three of the seven defendants in the indictment announced Thursday were previously charged by special counsel Robert Mueller, a Justice Department official said.

Nuclear campaigners drop Hinkley C mud legal challenge - BBC News

Nuclear campaigners drop Hinkley C mud legal challenge - BBC News

Congressional candidates address nuclear waste transport - Midland Reporter-Telegram

Congressional candidates address nuclear waste transport - Midland Reporter-Telegram

Sandoval details his opposition to DOE plan to store plutonium in Nevada - The Nevada Independent

Sandoval details his opposition to DOE plan to store plutonium in Nevada - The Nevada Independent

4 Ways To Lower Nuclear Plant Construction Costs, According To MIT

4 Ways To Lower Nuclear Plant Construction Costs, According To MIT: Having discovered surprising reasons why nuclear power plants are more expensive in the West, a new MIT study offers a prescription for lowering those costs.

A Tough Regulatory Road Ahead for Nuclear Power – InsideSources

A Tough Regulatory Road Ahead for Nuclear Power – InsideSources: Forty five years ago, it looked like nuclear energy would power America's future. In a 1973 report, the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission predicted that 1000

New Submarine USS Indiana Commissioned at Port Canaveral | Military.com

New Submarine USS Indiana Commissioned at Port Canaveral | Military.com

Trump signs bill to speed up nuclear reactor development | Government | postregister.com

Trump signs bill to speed up nuclear reactor development | Government | postregister.com

NRC review of Oyster Creek sale may be sped up | Breaking News | pressofatlanticcity.com

NRC review of Oyster Creek sale may be sped up | Breaking News | pressofatlanticcity.com: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has begun reviewing a license transfer application for the closed Oyster Creek nuclear plant, an NRC spokesman said Tuesday.

Declining Commercial Nuclear Industry Creates Risk for Navy Carriers, Subs - USNI News

Declining Commercial Nuclear Industry Creates Risk for Navy Carriers, Subs - USNI News

Talouselämä: Start-up of Fennovoima’s nuclear power plant to be delayed at least two years

Talouselämä: Start-up of Fennovoima’s nuclear power plant to be delayed at least two years: The Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) on Monday said it will not be able to conduct a safety assessment of the nuclear power plant until 2020, three years behind the original schedule.

Nuclear, wind energy a growing part of energy mix, Xcel says | Jamestown Sun

Nuclear, wind energy a growing part of energy mix, Xcel says | Jamestown Sun: WELCH, Minn. — Xcel Energy aims to grow the share of carbon-free energy in its overall generating mix in the next decade, and Prairie Island nuclear plant will continue to play a key role for years to come.

Work of Nuclear Reactor in Belgium Over Poor Concrete Quality - Operator - Sputnik International

Work of Nuclear Reactor in Belgium Over Poor Concrete Quality - Operator - Sputnik International: BRUSSELS (Sputnik) - A degradation in concrete quality was discovered at Tihange 2 nuclear power unit in southern Belgium, which was temporarily stopped in September for repairs and maintenance, Engie's Belgian subsidiary Electrabel, the operator of all nuclear power plants in the country, said the VRT broadcaster on Wednesday.

South Africa's Zuma Fired Me for Blocking Russian Nuclear Power Deal: Nene | World News | US News

South Africa's Zuma Fired Me for Blocking Russian Nuclear Power Deal: Nene | World News | US News

Behind the Great Plant Vogtle Rebellion of 2018

Behind the Great Plant Vogtle Rebellion of 2018

Georgia PSC candidates diverge over nuclear energy options. | The Telegraph

Georgia PSC candidates diverge over nuclear energy options. | The Telegraph

A Tale Of Two Power Plants: One Nuclear Plant Gets the Go Ahead While One Coal Plant Gets The Axe

A Tale Of Two Power Plants: One Nuclear Plant Gets the Go Ahead While One Coal Plant Gets The Axe: Recent decisions about the future of two large power plants could have striking implications for the Trump Administration’s efforts to bolster nuclear and coal-fired power.

Nuclear plant shutdowns closer, FirstEnergy Solutions mum on retention bonuses | cleveland.com

Nuclear plant shutdowns closer, FirstEnergy Solutions mum on retention bonuses | cleveland.com

Skyline of Bohunice nuclear power plant has changed - spectator.sme.sk

Skyline of Bohunice nuclear power plant has changed - spectator.sme.sk: All four cooling towers of the defunct V1 nuclear power plant were demolished.

A Tough Regulatory Road Ahead for Nuclear Power – InsideSources

A Tough Regulatory Road Ahead for Nuclear Power – InsideSources: Forty five years ago, it looked like nuclear energy would power America's future. In a 1973 report, the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission predicted that 1000

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire October 3, 2018

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire
October 3, 2018

EPA Looking at Radiation Regulation?

The internet erupted this morning with stories about how the EPA is moving to revise radiation standards. The reality seems a bit more cloudy, as best described here
 
The Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works is hosting a hearing today on  Oversight of the Environmental Protection Agency's Implementation of Sound and Transparent Science in Regulation.
 
Expect the hearing to substantially discuss low-dose radiation standards. The lead witness will be Dr. Edward J. Calabrese of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst School of Public Health and Health Sciences, a toxicologist who has said loosening limits on radiation exposure would save billions of dollars and have a positive impact on human health. 
 
The hearing comes in the wake of Congress passing H.R. 589, which includes provisions directing DOE to re-start a low-dose radiation research program. 

Tuesday, October 2, 2018

Can Coal, Nuclear Power Plants Be Saved? | RealClearEnergy

Can Coal, Nuclear Power Plants Be Saved? | RealClearEnergy: Can Coal, Nuclear Power Plants Be Saved? | RealClearEnergy

Statement by IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano

Statement by IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano

Vienna, Austria
Yukiya Amano
The Agency implements safeguards in accordance with its rights and obligations deriving from the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreements and the Additional Protocols concluded between the Agency and States, relevant IAEA Board of Governors and UN Security Council decisions and resolutions, and based on the Agency’s established safeguards practices. It should be noted that under the existing verification framework the Agency sends inspectors to sites and locations only when needed.
The Agency uses all safeguards relevant information available to it but it does not take any information at face value. In line with established safeguards practices, all information obtained, including from third parties, is subject to rigorous review and assessed together with other available information to arrive at an independent assessment based on the Agency’s own expertise. It is not the practice of the Agency to publicly discuss issues related to any such information.
The Agency’s work related to nuclear verification is and must always be impartial, factual, and professional. In order to maintain credibility, the Agency’s independence in relation to the implementation of verification activities is of paramount importance.
The Agency’s verification activities in Iran are being carried out based on the Comprehensive Safeguards Agreement (CSA) concluded with Iran and the Additional Protocol, that Iran is provisionally implementing. In addition, the Agency is also carrying out verification and monitoring of Iran’s nuclear-related commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). These activities will continue to be carried out within the parameters of the relevant decisions and resolutions of the IAEA Board of Governors and the UN Security Council as appropriate.
As I stated in my reports to the IAEA Board of Governors, evaluations regarding the absence of undeclared nuclear material and activities for Iran remain ongoing. The Agency continues to evaluate Iran’s declarations under the Additional Protocol, and has conducted complementary accesses under the Additional Protocol to all the sites and locations in Iran which it needed to visit.

Fuel Loading Begins Of Second Floating Nuclear Station Reactor, Says Russia

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The future of nuclear energy depends on China - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

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9th Annual Internationial SMR and Advanced Reactor Summit


Nuclear Energy Insider are excited to announce that we have partnered with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) for the 9th Annual International SMR and Advanced Reactor Summit (April 2-3, the Westin Buckhead Atlanta).
The ASME will bring much desired technical expertise and industry knowledge to the event which will allow you to gain even greater insight into the exciting goings on in the industry.
Pre-order the 2019 brochure here to get it when it’s ready!
Here’s what you can expect from the 2019 summit:
  • Delve Deep: Hear from the US, Canadian and International SMR and advanced reactor projects and delve deep into the paths to worldwide deployment such as licensing updates, investment opportunities, construction and O&M innovations
  • Going Global: With more international representation than ever before at SMR 2018, the 2019 event will build on that success to give you crucial insights from projects in Canada, the UK, China, Russia, Argentina and the Middle East
  • Policy and Regulatory Insights: Understand international licensing updates, policy shifts and local/state government support for next generation nuclear so you can understand key deployment opportunities coming up in the near future

Many thanks,
Ben
Ben Moss
Project Director, Energy
Nuclear Energy Insider
+44 (0)207 375 7537
bmoss@fc-bi.com

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State Department: Don’t forget about threat of nuclear terrorism

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Editorial: Owners' recommitment to Vogtle expansion good for region, nation - Opinion - The Augusta Chronicle - Augusta, GA

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TVA names 3 top executives including COO, VP of Finance

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Entergy's last layoffs by month's end | The Brattleboro Reformer | Brattleboro Breaking News, Sports, Weather, Traffic

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Google faces Belgium lawsuit for not blurring military sites, nuclear plants on maps | Fox News

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Global Nuclear Power Plant Market 2018 New Trends - Exelon Nuclear, Rosenergoatom, Duke Energy, Entergy Corporation - Weekly Journalism

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How important is nuclear power in India's energy transition? - Opinion by Sanjay Kumar Kar | ET EnergyWorld

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4 Ways To Lower Nuclear Plant Construction Costs, According To MIT

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bne IntelliNews - Further delay to Paks nuclear power plant expansion

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Russia’s Floating Nuclear Plant Opens its Gangway for Bellona

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Nuclear power fits in best with Saudi Arabia’s plans to diversify energy sources - Saudi Gazette

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EM Update October 2, 2018


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EM Update | Vol. 10, Issue 39 | Oct. 2, 2018
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Billions needed to build small modular reactors | News | New Civil Engineer

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Agencies Collaborate to Better Monitor and Model the Environment - Eos

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Energy Journal: Going nuclear, wilderness changes and jobs | Energy Journal | trib.com

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Trump Signs Legislation to Promote Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technology | Greentech Media

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ANS Nuclear Policy Wire October 2, 2018


ANS Nuclear Policy Wire
October 2, 2018

New Fiscal Year, New NE

FY 2019 began yesterday, and the Department of Energy is fully funded for the year. Having DOE funded for the start of the fiscal year is an accomplishment in and of itself, but the appropriations also include strong support for nuclear programs:
  • The Office of Nuclear Energy has a budget of $1.33 billion, a 10% increase over FY 2018. Since FY 2015, NE's budget has risen by almost a half-billion dollars. 
     
  • The budget for Reactor Concepts R&D is increasing 37% to $324 million, with $122 million for advanced reactor technologies and $22 million for completing the federal share of two performace-based advanced reactor concepts. 
     
  • The Versatile Fast Test Reactor gets $65 million, a $30 million increase from FY 2018, to prepare for construction. Congress also just passed the Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act, which directs DOE to evaluate the need for a fast test reactor and complete work on the facility by 2025. 
 
Check out the full budget for DOE here; we've highlighted NE, NNSA, and NRC for easy reading. 


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Monday, October 1, 2018

Nuclear watchdog IAEA enters Iran's Parchin site - CNN

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America’s newest nuclear gravity bomb completes design review

America’s newest nuclear gravity bomb completes design review


https://www.defensenews.com/space/2018/10/01/americas-newest-nuclear-gravity-bomb-completes-design-review/

Trump leaves 'little rocket man' barbs at home in stately UN speech | TheHill

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Japan court rejects bid to shut down Shikoku Electric nuclear reactor | Reuters

Japan court rejects bid to shut down Shikoku Electric nuclear reactor | Reuters: A court in Japan on Friday rejected a lawsuit to prevent Shikoku Electric Power Co from restarting its only operable nuclear reactor.

North Korea says 'no way' will disarm unilaterally without trust | Reuters

North Korea says 'no way' will disarm unilaterally without trust | Reuters: North Korea's foreign minister told the United Nations on Saturday continued sanctions were deepening its mistrust in the United States and there was no way the country would give up its nuclear weapons unilaterally under such circumstances.

Hanford to start filling radioactive waste tunnel at risk of collapse | Tri-City Herald

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Entergy seeks to re-license two nuclear plants, amid questions over performance in power emergency | Environment | theadvocate.com

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Nuclear panel elects new leaders, but future still unclear - VTDigger

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New Mexico to monitor national labs under renewed grant | The State

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JEA and others with ties to controversial nuclear project get credit downgrades - News - The Florida Times-Union - Jacksonville, FL

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Radiation exposure from xrays, mammograms, CT and other scans - The Washington Post

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France’s nuclear clean energy is over three times faster and cheaper than Germany’s solar and wind – NextBigFuture.com

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The Middle East Nuclear Race Is Reaching A Boiling Point | OilPrice.com

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Editorial: Owners' recommitment to Vogtle expansion good for region, nation - Opinion - The Augusta Chronicle - Augusta, GA

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Letter: The Importance of Vogtle to the U.S. electricity sector - Opinion - The Augusta Chronicle - Augusta, GA

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Entergy's last layoffs by month's end | The Brattleboro Reformer | Brattleboro Breaking News, Sports, Weather, Traffic

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Entergy seeks to re-license two nuclear plants, amid questions over performance in power emergency | Environment | theadvocate.com

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Trump Signs Legislation That Will ‘Speed Up Development Of Advanced Reactors’

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IAEA Mission Says Luxembourg Committed to Safe Management of Radioactive Waste, Sees Areas for Further Enhancement

IAEA Mission Says Luxembourg Committed to Safe Management of Radioactive Waste, Sees Areas for Further Enhancement

41/2018
Luxembourg, Luxembourg
Members of the ARTEMIS team together with counterparts from the Ministry of Health of Luxembourg on 28 September 2018 (Photo: Ministry of Health of Luxembourg)
An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts said Luxembourg’s programme for managing radioactive waste demonstrated a commitment to safety, while also noting areas where it could be further enhanced, such as by strengthening the national regulatory framework.
The Integrated Review Service for Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel Management, Decommissioning and Remediation (ARTEMIS) team concluded a five-day mission to Luxembourg on 28 September. The mission was requested by the Government of Luxembourg and hosted by the Ministry of Health, with the participation of the Department of Radiation Protection (DRP), which is responsible for radioactive waste management in the country.
ARTEMIS missions provide independent expert advice from an international team of specialists convened by the IAEA. Reviews are based on the IAEA safety standards and technical guidance as well as international good practices. The mission to Luxembourg aimed to help the country meet European Union obligations that require an independent review of national programmes for the management of radioactive waste and spent fuel.
Luxembourg does not operate any nuclear power plants and has only a small amount of radioactive waste from medical and other activities. Under its waste management strategy, short-lived radioactive materials are stored in the country before regulatory clearance, while legacy waste and disused radioactive sources are stored domestically before being sent to Belgium for subsequent management under a bilateral agreement.
“Luxembourg has adopted a coherent approach to ensure a comprehensive and safe management of radioactive waste, commensurate with the very small amounts of radioactive waste in the country,” said ARTEMIS team leader Vidas Paulikas, Deputy Head for Radiation Safety of Lithuania’s State Nuclear Power Safety Inspectorate.
While the team commended authorities for their pragmatic approach to waste management, it also pointed to areas where additional work would benefit the programme. Recommendations and suggestions provided by the team included:
  • The Ministry of Health should enhance the regulatory framework for the safe predisposal management of radioactive waste, decommissioning of facilities and remediation activities in accordance with relevant IAEA safety standards.
  • The Ministry of Health should ensure the effective independence of the DRP as a regulatory authority from the operational radioactive waste management facility and activities.
  • The DRP should consider further developing the safety provisions and procedures for establishing the safety case and safety assessment for facilities and activities in the predisposal management of radioactive waste.
Predisposal refers to any radioactive waste management steps carried out prior to disposal, such as treatment, storage or transport activities.
The team comprised two experts from Lithuania and Cuba as well as three IAEA staff members.
“Even though the production of radioactive waste is very limited in Luxembourg, it has been important for us to seek confirmation that our plans and strategies for safe radioactive waste management are adequate,” said Patrick Majerus, Head of the DPR. “The recommendations will help us to further enhance compliance with international safety standards.”
Peter Johnston, Director of the IAEA’s Division of Radiation, Transport and Waste Safety, said authorities in Luxembourg were well prepared for the mission and transparent in their discussions.
“This mission provides feedback that will help further improve the development and implementation of the country’s radioactive waste management programme, including through the bilateral agreement with Belgium, and thereby further improve safety,” Johnston said.
The final mission report will be provided to the Government in about two months. The Government plans to make the report public.
About ARTEMIS
ARTEMIS is an integrated expert review service for radioactive waste and spent fuel management, decommissioning and remediation programmes. This service is intended for facility operators and organizations responsible for radioactive waste management, as well as for regulators, national policy makers and other decision makers.