Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Friday, November 16, 2018

Nuclear vital to decarbonisation, finds MIT study - World Nuclear News

Nuclear vital to decarbonisation, finds MIT study - World Nuclear News: The challenge of climate change will be more difficult and costly to solve unless nuclear energy is included in the energy mix, according to a newly released study from the Massachussetts Institute of Technology Energy Initiative.

Natural Gas Prices Could Rise Much Higher This Winter - The United States Natural Gas ETF, LP (NYSEARCA:UNG) | Seeking Alpha

Natural Gas Prices Could Rise Much Higher This Winter - The United States Natural Gas ETF, LP (NYSEARCA:UNG) | Seeking Alpha: Early shots of winter weather have shut the door on the injection season and opened the door to the withdrawal season for natural gas in storage. Natural gas in

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire November 16, 2018

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire
November 16, 2018

Stand Up, Testify

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held a hearing yesterday for its newest nominees, including Dr. Rita Baranwal for the position of Assistant Secretary of Nuclear Energy in DOE. Chairmain Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) has already announced she hopes to confirm Dr. Baranwal by the end of the year. Check out some highlights from Dr. Baranwal's testimony below: 
 
  • On moonshots: "A lot of the work that we have done in the nuclear industry, one might consider a moon-shot, a lofty type of goal to stride towards, and certainly the smaller reactors (also known as the microreactors) that many companies are working on to develop could be considered one of those."
     
  • On the importance of science: "[Science is] weighted very heavily [in my decision-making]. I'm a scientist and I look at the evidence."
     
  • On Yucca Mountain: "Should I be confirmed, I very much look forward to visiting Yucca Mountain."
     
  • On developing an advanced nuclear power plant: "I do [believe it is in the forseeable future] and I know companies are working on that...If I am confirmed, that will be one of my priorities, to support the advanced reactor community."
     
  • On microreactors: "I am very excited about the prospect of the application of  microreactors to support especially remote communities, both in the arctic type of area, as well as desert communities and military bases, regardless of the community."
     
  • On policy and perception: "I think at the moment that some of the biggest challenges are not necessarily technical; they're around perception and policy. So I think in collaboration, in working with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission around regulation and then working with all of [Congress] to work around policy will help address some of those challenges. The perception piece I think, the onus is on everybody in the nuclear industry to help alleviate some of the perception issues."
 

Orano prepares Fugen ATR fuel for reprocessing - World Nuclear News

Orano prepares Fugen ATR fuel for reprocessing - World Nuclear News: Orano has been contracted to carry out preparatory work for the transport of 731 used fuel assemblies from the Fugen experimental Advanced Thermal Reactor (ATR) in Japan to France for reprocessing.

Renewables experience could benefit US SMR deployment - World Nuclear News

Renewables experience could benefit US SMR deployment - World Nuclear News: Similar incentives to those used over the last decade to help deploy renewable technologies in the USA could lead to a strong return on investment if used for the deployment of small modular reactors, a new report prepared for the US Department of Energy has found.

Conference: Nuclear growth relies on good policies - World Nuclear News

Conference: Nuclear growth relies on good policies - World Nuclear News: Political support for nuclear power is crucial if this proven, sustainable and zero-carbon source of electricity is to play its part among other clean energy technologies in the fight against climate change. This was the message of ministers and industry leaders at UNECE’s 9th International Forum on Energy for Sustainable Development.

After scandal and public pressure, SC’s electric co-ops promise to change

After scandal and public pressure, SC’s electric co-ops promise to change: This week the state's co-op association unveiled to legislators a series of proposed reforms they say will keep South Carolina’s 20 co-ops from repeating a scandal.

DOE Considers Subsidies Modeled on Renewables for Small Modular Nuclear Reactors

DOE Considers Subsidies Modeled on Renewables for Small Modular Nuclear Reactors

Taking Action: Is the Bellefonte Nuclear plant worth finishing? | WHNT.com

Taking Action: Is the Bellefonte Nuclear plant worth finishing? | WHNT.com

Report: Hundreds of Pilgrim tasks downgraded - News - capecodtimes.com - Hyannis, MA

Report: Hundreds of Pilgrim tasks downgraded - News - capecodtimes.com - Hyannis, MA

APS spent millions defeating Prop 127. Is a clean energy compromise ahead? | Utility Dive

APS spent millions defeating Prop 127. Is a clean energy compromise ahead? | Utility Dive: Utility industry news, voices and jobs for energy industry professionals. Optimized for your mobile phone.

Trump's nominee for key energy panel promises to be impartial on potential coal bailout

Trump's nominee for key energy panel promises to be impartial on potential coal bailout

Advanced Nuclear Can Make Gasoline Out of Water | Energy Central

Advanced Nuclear Can Make Gasoline Out of Water | Energy Central

What advanced nuclear reactor designs are likely to be successful and why? | Energy Central

What advanced nuclear reactor designs are likely to be successful and why? | Energy Central

Vista forum discusses public health risks of San Onofre nuclear storage facility   – The Coast News Group

Vista forum discusses public health risks of San Onofre nuclear storage facility   – The Coast News Group

PRISM selected for US test reactor programme - World Nuclear News

PRISM selected for US test reactor programme - World Nuclear News: Idaho National Laboratory has selected GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy's PRISM technology to support the US Department of Energy's Versatile Test Reactor programme. The project is looking at what would be needed to establish a reactor-based fast-spectrum neutron irradiation capability for the USA by 2026.

NRC Expects Full Report on SONGS Canister before Thanksgiving | San Clemente Times

NRC Expects Full Report on SONGS Canister before Thanksgiving | San Clemente Times

New Digital Safety System Controller Approved for Nuclear Plants

New Digital Safety System Controller Approved for Nuclear Plants

Environmentalists Warm to Nuclear Amid Climate Change Threat | Politics | US News

Environmentalists Warm to Nuclear Amid Climate Change Threat | Politics | US News

Nuclear power: Negotiations with Nigeria advancing, says Rosatom – Punch Newspapers

Nuclear power: Negotiations with Nigeria advancing, says Rosatom – Punch Newspapers

Chinese nuclear power giant eyes commercialization of 3rd-generation units - CGTN

Chinese nuclear power giant eyes commercialization of 3rd-generation units - CGTN

FOUR-POWER PRIORITY: Mass Production of Modular Nuclear Reactors To Industrialize Developing Countries Until Fusion Power Comes Online

FOUR-POWER PRIORITY: Mass Production of Modular Nuclear Reactors To Industrialize Developing Countries Until Fusion Power Comes Online

Global Nuclear Power Industry, Global Industry Analysts | Benzinga

Global Nuclear Power Industry, Global Industry Analysts | Benzinga: NEW YORK, Nov. 15, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- This report analyzes the worldwide markets for Nuclear Power in TeraWatt-hours (TWh).Read the full report: ...

Advanced Nuclear Technology: Future of Nuclear Energy - Nanalyze

Advanced Nuclear Technology: Future of Nuclear Energy - Nanalyze: Forget about post-apocalyptic futures caused by a nuclear meltdown. Advanced nuclear technology promises cheaper and safer energy for the planet.

Spain to nix nuclear and coal power by 2030 – EURACTIV.com

Spain to nix nuclear and coal power by 2030 – EURACTIV.com

Alabama Radiation Alarm: Troubled Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant Under Investigation

Alabama Radiation Alarm: Troubled Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant Under Investigation

Taking Action: Is the Bellefonte Nuclear plant worth finishing? | WHNT.com

Taking Action: Is the Bellefonte Nuclear plant worth finishing? | WHNT.com

What Khashoggi killing means for US-Saudi nuclear power policy | TheHill

What Khashoggi killing means for US-Saudi nuclear power policy | TheHill

Environmentalists must embrace nuclear power to stem climate change | New Scientist

Environmentalists must embrace nuclear power to stem climate change | New Scientist

Why the security of nuclear materials should be focus of US-Russia nuclear relations - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

Why the security of nuclear materials should be focus of US-Russia nuclear relations - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists: The Trump administration’s decision to withdraw from the INF Treaty following years of Russian noncompliance is the most recent upset in a series of escalating tensions between the two superpowers. The political status of Ukraine and Crimea, Russian disinformation campaigns in the 2016 election cycle, and continued uncertainty surrounding the extension of New START have … Continued

Will disruptive technology cause nuclear war?


Will disruptive technology cause nuclear war?



https://thebulletin.org/2018/11/will-disruptive-technology-cause-nuclear-war/?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=Bulletin%20Newsletter&utm_campaign=DisruptiveTechNuclearWar

Thursday, November 15, 2018

Nuclear Reactors 633 - U.S. Department Of Energy Distributes 18 Million Dollars to Nuclear Research Projects - Part 2 of 2 Parts | Nucleotidings

Nuclear Reactors 633 - U.S. Department Of Energy Distributes 18 Million Dollars to Nuclear Research Projects - Part 2 of 2 Parts | Nucleotidings

Climate Change Demands World Revisits Nuclear | RealClearEnergy

Climate Change Demands World Revisits Nuclear | RealClearEnergy: Climate Change Demands World Revisits Nuclear | RealClearEnergy

Nuclear Science for Sustainable Agriculture: The IAEA-FAO Partnership

Nuclear Science for Sustainable Agriculture: The IAEA-FAO Partnership

,
Maria Helena Semedo, Deputy Director-General for Climate and Natural Resources at the Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nations (FAO) will be a speaker at next week's IAEA Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Science and Technology. (Photo: FAO)
Interview with Maria Helena Semedo, Deputy Director-General for Climate and Natural Resources at the Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nations (FAO), and a speaker at next week’s IAEA Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Science and Technology.
Q: The FAO/IAEA Joint Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture is a good example of how partnerships between two international organizations can contribute to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Agenda by 2030.   In your opinion, what has made this partnership successful and what is its most important impact?
A: Indeed, the partnership between FAO and IAEA is a unique example of interagency cooperation. The Joint Programme of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture was established almost 55 years ago! The main factors for its success were and still are the combination of complementary mandates and common goals, a joint programming, co-funding and coordinated management. Thanks to the connection of both organizations’ strengths, we are able to respond efficiently to the needs of our Member countries and the global community.
Over the past 55 years, the FAO/IAEA partnership has achieved significant successes with socio-economic impacts at country, regional and global levels; contributing to food security, poverty alleviation, and livelihoods. Let me give you some concrete examples:
In 2015, the Dominican Republic reported the presence of the Mediterranean fruit fly. Trade partners immediately banned the export of most fruits and vegetables, which caused a loss of US $40 million and put around 30.000 jobs at risk. Thanks to technical assistance from the Joint FAO/IAEA Division, the Dominican Republic was freed from the medfly infestation. The eradication was possible due to the division’s work on improving the sterile insect technique, to sterilize male insect to control or eradicate invasive insect pests. It is a cost-effective and environment friendly.
In Pakistan, farmers have rapidly adopted mutant cotton varieties. These varieties are more resistant to pests and diseases and are able to withstand high temperatures and heavy rains. It is estimated, that 15-25 percent of the total cotton area of the country is currently planted with mutant varieties, and this proportion is expected to increase to 30-40 percent in the next few years. This positively affects millions of stakeholders directly or indirectly related to cotton industry. Pakistan’s Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology estimates that while the cotton mutant variety alone created and additional income of US $486 million between 1986 and 2004, the 43 mutant varieties for all crops had an economic impact on the national economy that, as of April 2018, amounted to US $6 billion.
Q: You will be a speaker at the upcoming IAEA Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Science and Technology: Addressing Current and Emerging Development Challenges.   Why are conferences like this important? What takeaways would you like to see?
A: I am very honored to represent FAO at the IAEA Ministerial Conference. The Conference is taking place at a time when governments, international organizations and other stakeholders are seeking innovative solutions to address some of the most pressing global challenges related to food insecurity and malnutrition, population growth and urbanization, the depletion of our natural resources, climate change and political turmoil.
Intergovernmental meetings, particularly those with a Ministerial segment, provide the opportunity to bring different sectors together for a high-level dialogue; to build and strengthen a common vision; to explore avenues for partnerships; and to achieve the level of commitment and political will needed to bring about the necessary transformation.
In relation to the theme of this Ministerial Conference, I believe that sustainable agriculture and food systems are central for economic growth, poverty alleviation and resilience to shocks such as natural disasters and climate change. This is particularly true for most low and low-middle income countries, where agriculture is the largest employer of the poor. The Conference outcomes will certainly benefit the long-lasting strategic partnership between FAO and IAEA to foster sustainable, resilient and inclusive food and agriculture systems. I am confident that the IAEA Ministerial Conference will reaffirm the commitments of IAEA, FAO and their Member States to strengthen international cooperation in the use of science and innovation to address global development challenges, paving the way for concrete avenues and coordinated actions to enhance and implement peaceful applications of nuclear science and technology.
Q: What role do you think science and technology in general, and nuclear science and technology in particular, can play in addressing current and emerging development challenges?
A: Today we face complex and interconnected challenges that threaten global food security and socio-economic wellbeing in many countries. Recent FAO estimates indicate that the number of undernourished people has reached 821 million, rising for the third consecutive year. At the same time, 2 billion people suffer from malnutrition and around 672 million adults are obese. We need a holistic approach and transformative actions that embrace the three dimensions of sustainable development and address root causes to leave no one behind.
When the international community adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, it was a clear sign that business as usual is no longer an option, that we need transformation. We have reached an inflection point in agriculture and food systems. Today, it is fundamental that we produce and consume food in a way that preserves the environment, and our biodiversity. We have to implement sustainable practices that provide healthy and nutritious food, ecosystem services and climate-change resilience.
Science and innovation are essential to meet this daunting challenge. However, we not only need to focus on technological solutions, but also on transforming social, economic, institutional, and policy processes. Science and technology can provide innovative and practical solutions to achieve food security, secure livelihoods, enhance our collective well-being, and boost economic growth, while preserving natural resources and protecting the environment. It comes with an urgent need to increase private and public investments in agricultural science and technology research.
Nuclear science and technology add value to conventional approaches by addressing a range of development challenges. Nuclear science and technology with competitive and comparative advantages will continue finding innovative approaches and scalable sustainable solutions to developing more efficient and resilient production systems, building more resilient rural communities, and supporting economic growth in Member countries.
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Genusa To Supply Fuel For Olkiluoto Units 1 And 2 - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Genusa To Supply Fuel For Olkiluoto Units 1 And 2 - 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.

PG&E Struggling in Face of Wildfire Dangers - Power Engineering

PG&E Struggling in Face of Wildfire Dangers - Power Engineering

Fishermen Sue Oil Companies Over Rising Ocean Temperatures - Scientific American

Fishermen Sue Oil Companies Over Rising Ocean Temperatures - Scientific American: Scientific American is the essential guide to the most awe-inspiring advances in science and technology, explaining how they change our understanding of the world and shape our lives.

Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant under investigation by NRC | al.com

Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant under investigation by NRC | al.com

Nuclear News Roundup Nov 15, 2018 | Nucleotidings

Nuclear News Roundup Nov 15, 2018 | Nucleotidings

Nuclear Fusion 52 - Chinese Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak Achieves Breakthrough Tempurature | Nucleotidings

Nuclear Fusion 52 - Chinese Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak Achieves Breakthrough Tempurature | Nucleotidings

US could lose in war with China or Russia, panel warns

US could lose in war with China or Russia, panel warns

Friday Matinee: Building Yankee Rowe | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Friday Matinee: Building Yankee Rowe | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Friday Nuclear Matinee- Navigating Nuclear Virtual Field Trip | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Friday Nuclear Matinee- Navigating Nuclear Virtual Field Trip | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Nuclear Plant Construction Delay and Cost 3 | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Nuclear Plant Construction Delay and Cost 3 | ANS Nuclear Cafe

The Mother of Radiation: Marie Curie | ANS Nuclear Cafe

The Mother of Radiation: Marie Curie | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Union of Concerned Scientists Acknowledges Importance of Nuclear Power in Carbon Emission Reduction | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Union of Concerned Scientists Acknowledges Importance of Nuclear Power in Carbon Emission Reduction | ANS Nuclear Cafe

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Accepts MELTAC Nplus S for Use in U.S. Nuclear Power Plants | Business Wire

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Accepts MELTAC Nplus S for Use in U.S. Nuclear Power Plants | Business Wire: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO:6503) announced today that it has obtained acceptance from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for the

Nuclear Regulatory Commission conducts investigation at Browns Ferry plant

Nuclear Regulatory Commission conducts investigation at Browns Ferry plant

Fukushima Update 11/15/2018

Fukushima Update 11/15/2018 –

Another Japanese high court rejects an antinuclear lawsuit to stop Ikata unit #3… Tepco plans to test for the amount of corium remaining in the three damaged reactors next year…  The IAEA tells Japan to move quickly to stop the ever-growing buildup of waste water at F. Daiichi… Fukushima has held a two day event in Tokyo to tout its home-grown produce… Fukushima marathons promote prefectural reconstruction… Minamisoma tree-planting will be expanded to all of Fukushima Prefecture.

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

French government delays energy bill on changes to power plants | Agricultural Commodities | Reuters

French government delays energy bill on changes to power plants | Agricultural Commodities | Reuters: The French government has postponed a bill on the timetable for the opening and closing of power plants, government spokesman Benjamin Griveaux said on Thursday.

US energy secretary In Prague to lobby for nuclear industry - ABC News

US energy secretary In Prague to lobby for nuclear industry - ABC News

Work underway on massive fans for nuclear waste repository

Work underway on massive fans for nuclear waste repository: CARLSBAD, N.M. – The U.S. Energy Department says a New York-based company is building several massive fans to be used in a new multimillion-dollar...

Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant under investigation by NRC | al.com

Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant under investigation by NRC | al.com: The north Alabama plant has come under scrutiny over concerns of high radiation readings in water near the plant.

Analyst: SCANA should look at selling N.C. gas subsidiary | The State

Analyst: SCANA should look at selling N.C. gas subsidiary | The State: Should a SCANA-Dominion merger fall through, other suitors are waiting in the wings, a financial analyst told the S.C. Public Service Commission on the ninth day of hearings into its failed nuclear project.

Legislators set criteria for evaluating potential bids for buying Santee Cooper | News | postandcourier.com

Legislators set criteria for evaluating potential bids for buying Santee Cooper | News | postandcourier.com

SCANA attorney takes blame for deletions to SC nuke report | Myrtle Beach Sun News

SCANA attorney takes blame for deletions to SC nuke report | Myrtle Beach Sun News: Lawyers for environmental groups and the state’s utility watchdog grilled an attorney involved in hiring a consultant to study problems at V.C. Summer during a hearing into SCE&G’s failed nuclear project.

Knoxville AMS Corp. gets $2.8 million for nuclear research

Knoxville AMS Corp. gets $2.8 million for nuclear research

International Atomic Energy Agency presses for cleanup of Fukushima nuclear plant - Portland Press Herald

International Atomic Energy Agency presses for cleanup of Fukushima nuclear plant - Portland Press Herald: More than seven years since the meltdowns, officials fail to agree on a solution for the radioactive waste.

GE Hitachi awarded subcontract for work supporting proposed Versatile Test Reactor at INL | Local News | postregister.com

GE Hitachi awarded subcontract for work supporting proposed Versatile Test Reactor at INL | Local News | postregister.com

RWE Underlines Targets as Profit Rattled by Green Revolution - Bloomberg

RWE Underlines Targets as Profit Rattled by Green Revolution - Bloomberg: RWE AG stuck to its full year earnings and dividend targets even after reporting weaker profit as the utility adapts to Germany’s shift away from nuclear and coal-fired plants.

E.ON says sold German nuclear power forward at below-market levels | Agricultural Commodities | Reuters

E.ON says sold German nuclear power forward at below-market levels | Agricultural Commodities | Reuters: German utility E.ON said on Wednesday it sold forward the bulk of its nuclear generation volumes for 2018 and the coming years at prices well below the current wholesale market.

US To Pay Contractor $1.1M For SC Nuclear Facility Work - Law360

US To Pay Contractor $1.1M For SC Nuclear Facility Work - Law360: The National Nuclear Security Administration must pay at least $1.1 million in withheld cash to the company tasked with designing, building and running a now-canceled nuclear fuel facility in South Carolina, the U.S. Court of Federal Claims said Friday.

Governor, cabinet could decide on South Florida power plants | Miami Herald

Governor, cabinet could decide on South Florida power plants | Miami Herald: Gov. Rick Scott and the state Cabinet next week could sign off on a Florida Power & Light plan to build a power plant in Broward County and will take up a dispute about a nuclear project at Turkey Point.

Closing nuclear plants risks rise in greenhouse gas emissions, report warns | Environment | The Guardian

Closing nuclear plants risks rise in greenhouse gas emissions, report warns | Environment | The Guardian: Fresh division among environmentalists over nuclear energy, the single largest source of low-carbon electricity

IPCC warns world must reach zero GHG emissions by 2075 — Electric Vehicles will play a crucial role | The Energy Collective Daily

IPCC warns world must reach zero GHG emissions by 2075 — Electric Vehicles will play a crucial role | The Energy Collective Daily

Link to The Energy Collective Network

Ukraine, USA extend nuclear safety cooperation - World Nuclear News

Ukraine, USA extend nuclear safety cooperation - World Nuclear News: Ukraine and the USA have agreed to extend by five years an existing agreement on cooperation in improving nuclear safety and the regulation of civil nuclear facilities in Ukraine.

Japan and USA enhance cooperation in nuclear energy - World Nuclear News

Japan and USA enhance cooperation in nuclear energy - World Nuclear News: A memorandum of cooperation has been signed between Japan and the USA to "promote the global leadership role" of the two countries in civil nuclear energy.

PRISM selected for US test reactor programme - World Nuclear News

PRISM selected for US test reactor programme - World Nuclear News: Idaho National Laboratory has selected GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy's PRISM technology to support the US Department of Energy's Versatile Test Reactor programme. The project is looking at what would be needed to establish a reactor-based fast-spectrum neutron irradiation capability for the USA by 2026.

UK HPR1000 moves to next design assessment stage


UK HPR1000 moves to next design assessment stage


http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/Articles/UK-HPR1000-moves-to-next-step-of-design-assessment

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

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=35cfb8c935-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_04_02_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_49b872540e-35cfb8c935-44370641

The Breakthrough Institute - How to Make Nuclear Innovative

The Breakthrough Institute - How to Make Nuclear Innovative

The Breakthrough Institute - How to Make Nuclear Cheap

The Breakthrough Institute - How to Make Nuclear Cheap

A New Day for Nuclear Advocacy…and Environmentalism?

 

A New Day for Nuclear Advocacy…and Environmentalism?

Union of Concerned Scientists Becomes First Major Environmental Group to Publicly Back Policy Support for Nuclear Energy


https://thebreakthrough.org/index.php/voices/ted-nordhaus/a-new-day-for-nuclear-advocacy...and-environmentalism?utm_source=Breakthrough+Newsletter&utm_campaign=35cfb8c935-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_04_02_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_49b872540e-35cfb8c935-44370641

UPDATE 2-Strike cuts French electricity output by 5.5 GW -RTE | Reuters

UPDATE 2-Strike cuts French electricity output by 5.5 GW -RTE | Reuters: (Adds more detail)

GE Hitachi awarded INL subcontract - KIFI

GE Hitachi awarded INL subcontract - KIFI

The Day - Nuclear waste dilemma - News from southeastern Connecticut

The Day - Nuclear waste dilemma - News from southeastern Connecticut: Congress should finally act on a permanent solution for the high-level nuclear waste piling up at plants and the sites of former plants.

Navy opens facility for submarine-launched ballistic missile research - UPI.com

Navy opens facility for submarine-launched ballistic missile research - UPI.com: The Navy has opened a new Missile Support Facility in Dahlgren, Va., that will focus sub-launched ballistic missiles and the Columbia-class nuclear submarine program.

Governor, cabinet could decide on South Florida power plants | Miami Herald

Governor, cabinet could decide on South Florida power plants | Miami Herald

At least 500 MOX workers to be laid off at start of 2019 | News | aikenstandard.com

At least 500 MOX workers to be laid off at start of 2019 | News | aikenstandard.com

Knoxville AMS Corp. gets $2.8 million for nuclear research

Knoxville AMS Corp. gets $2.8 million for nuclear research: AMS Corp. is one of 11 firms to share $18 million for nuclear research.

October MOX meeting with Trump, Energy Department was 'very lively' | News | aikenstandard.com

October MOX meeting with Trump, Energy Department was 'very lively' | News | aikenstandard.com

No health risk from Woolsey fire that burned nuclear cleanup site, state officials say - Los Angeles Times

No health risk from Woolsey fire that burned nuclear cleanup site, state officials say - Los Angeles Times: State regulators and outside experts are tamping down concerns from advocacy groups about the Woolsey Fire, which burned part of the Santa Susana Field Laboratory nuclear cleanup site, saying it likely posed no risk to the public beyond what is normal for wildfire smoke.

Oregon State University expert in nuclear power available to discuss Union of Concerned Scientists calls for policy to preserve nuclear power

Oregon State University expert in nuclear power available to discuss Union of Concerned Scientists calls for policy to preserve nuclear power

Nuclear power remains important option to meet challenges of energy demand, climate change: India - The Economic Times

Nuclear power remains important option to meet challenges of energy demand, climate change: India - The Economic Times: Sandeep Kumar Bayyapu stressed on the need of the IAEA to continue its programmes of support to member states who are embarking on or expanding their nuclear energy programmes.

India Advocates for Nuclear Power at UN With Climate Change Case

India Advocates for Nuclear Power at UN With Climate Change Case: India’s UN Mission told the United Nations General Assembly on Friday that it believed nuclear energy is vital for meeting the challenge of climate change and that they are intent on doing it as sustainably as possible.

Georgia’s nuclear project causes uncertainty for investors | Bond Buyer

Georgia’s nuclear project causes uncertainty for investors | Bond Buyer: Potential federal oversight of public utilities, rising costs, and lawsuits create volatility for utility market investors, Fiera Capital says.

Report: New England's Nuclear Plants Will Be Key To Fighting Climate Change | New Hampshire Public Radio

Report: New England's Nuclear Plants Will Be Key To Fighting Climate Change | New Hampshire Public Radio: A new report suggests New Hampshire's Seabrook Nuclear Power Plant will be essential to curbing the effects of climate change in the coming years. Seabrook

TVA Extends Deadline for Bellefonte Nuclear Plant Deal

TVA Extends Deadline for Bellefonte Nuclear Plant Deal

Lawyer and nuclear engineer Rick Jacobi: Yes, nuclear power is the better option - Longmont Times-Call

Lawyer and nuclear engineer Rick Jacobi: Yes, nuclear power is the better option - Longmont Times-Call

GE Hitachi and PRISM Selected for U.S. Department of Energy’s Versatile Test Reactor Program

GE Hitachi and PRISM Selected for U.S. Department of Energy’s Versatile Test Reactor Program

Midland City Council join stand against high-level nuclear waste

Midland City Council join stand against high-level nuclear waste: Tuesday morning, Midland City City Council held a special meeting and passed a resolution opposing proposals for two facilities to serve as interim storage for high-level nuclear waste.

Union of Concerned Scientists For Nukes! - Hit & Run : Reason.com

Union of Concerned Scientists For Nukes! - Hit & Run : Reason.com: Union of Concerned Scientists finally recognizes that it can't achieve its energy and climate goals without nuclear power.

Lightbridge Reports Financial Results for the Third Quarter of 2018 and Provides Business Update on Enfission and Other Developments Nasdaq:LTBR

Lightbridge Reports Financial Results for the Third Quarter of 2018 and Provides Business Update on Enfission and Other Developments Nasdaq:LTBR

Environmental Groups: State Should Review Oyster Creek Sale | Jersey Shore Online

Environmental Groups: State Should Review Oyster Creek Sale | Jersey Shore Online: With the impending license transfer of the Oyster Creek Generating Station to Holtec International Inc., further review is being urged by both local and state organizations.

GE Hitachi awarded subcontract for work supporting proposed Versatile Test Reactor at INL | Local News | postregister.com

GE Hitachi awarded subcontract for work supporting proposed Versatile Test Reactor at INL | Local News | postregister.com

U.S. Advanced Nuclear Technology Projects to Receive $18 million from the U.S. Department of Energy | Department of Energy

U.S. Advanced Nuclear Technology Projects to Receive $18 million from the U.S. Department of Energy | Department of Energy: U.S. Advanced Nuclear Technology Projects to Receive $18 million from the U.S. Department of Energy

Uranium Leaking into Water from South Carolina Fuel Plant

Uranium Leaking into Water from South Carolina Fuel Plant: Federal regulators say tests shows uranium levels exceeding safe drinking water standards have been found at two locations at a nuclear fuel plant that

Transmission and Distribution Evolution: Not Quite “Airplanes to Flying Cars,” But Close


Transmission and Distribution Evolution: Not Quite “Airplanes to Flying Cars,” But Close


https://www.elp.com/Electric-Light-Power-Newsletter/articles/2018/11/transmission-and-distribution-evolution-not-quite-airplanes-to-flying-cars-but-close.html?cmpid=enl_elp_electric_light__power_executive_digest_e-newsletter_2018-11-14&pwhid=1e90004a8e081f3272fb5f8e0e9a20316c85258cc50faf993491663afd10a38f41b62c13180d825ec81f1c72848099c33ec83965e1b8e8ff4a01aa5c32296aec&eid=288118515&bid=2301824

The Biggest Threat To Dollar Dominance | OilPrice.com

The Biggest Threat To Dollar Dominance | OilPrice.com: Russia’s large oil companies are asking Western commodity traders to pay for their crude in Euros as Washington looks to slap more sanctions on Moscow

ANS Position Statement on Linear No Threshold Hypothesis


It is the position of the American Nuclear Society that there is
insufficient scientific evidence to support the use of the Linear No
Threshold Hypothesis (LNTH) in the projection of the health effects
of low-level radiation.
Given this situation, an independent group of reputable scientists,
medical experts and health researchers should be established
to conduct an open scientific review of all data and analyses
on the subject of LNTH. Based on the conclusions of this review
group, a separate group composed of stakeholders should make
recommendations on whether adjustments to current radiation
protection guidelines should be made immediately to reflect current
information.
In addition, it is the ANS position that new research on low-level
radiation health effects, spanning several disciplines, should
be initiated. Meritorious existing research within the disciplines
should continue to receive funding.
While this research proceeds, the ANS concurs with the Position
Statement on “Radiation Risk in Perspective” issued by the Health
Physics Society in January 1996, which states as follows:
“In accordance with the current knowledge of radiation health
risks, the Health Physics Society recommends against quantitative
estimation of health risks below an individual dose of 5 rem1
 in
one year or a lifetime dose of 10 rem in addition to background
radiation. Risk estimation in this dose range should be strictly
qualitative accentuating a range of hypothetical health outcomes
with an emphasis on the likely possibility of zero adverse health
effects. The current philosophy of radiation protection is based on
the assumption that any radiation dose, no matter how small, may
result in human effects, such as cancer and hereditary genetic
damage. There is substantial and convincing scientific evidence
for health risks at high dose. Below 10 rem (which includes
occupational and environmental exposures) risks of health effects
are either too small to be observed or are non-existent.”

Thanks,

Brett Rampal
Nuclear Team Manager
(954) 849-5281

Scientists warn 20% of US nuclear capacity at risk; Toshiba liquidates UK new build company

 

Scientists warn 20% of US nuclear capacity at risk; Toshiba liquidates UK new build company


https://analysis.nuclearenergyinsider.com/scientists-warn-20-us-nuclear-capacity-risk-toshiba-liquidates-uk-new-build-company?utm_campaign=NEI%2014NOV18%20Newsletter%20Version%20A&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&elqTrackId=36318abdb59b43b0adda379a97457470&elq=c55561d7f65e4aa585ba93af4ec7745d&elqaid=40901&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=22591

Canada targets higher nuclear returns, longer lifespans at new test facility

 

Canada targets higher nuclear returns, longer lifespans at new test facility

https://analysis.nuclearenergyinsider.com/canada-targets-higher-nuclear-returns-longer-lifespans-new-test-facility?utm_campaign=NEI%2014NOV18%20Newsletter%20Version%20A&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&elqTrackId=0d782e634e9541d384a2a43d60cb09ad&elq=c55561d7f65e4aa585ba93af4ec7745d&elqaid=40901&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=22591

NuScale-BWXT contract set to reveal full modular build payoff

 

NuScale-BWXT contract set to reveal full modular build payoff


https://analysis.nuclearenergyinsider.com/nuscale-bwxt-contract-set-reveal-full-modular-build-payoff?utm_campaign=NEI%2014NOV18%20Newsletter%20Version%20A&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&elqTrackId=d9ba22c804524f36b748a9178dac1e49&elq=c55561d7f65e4aa585ba93af4ec7745d&elqaid=40901&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=22591

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

Russia’s Rosatom to start construction of 7th power unit at Chinese nuclear power plant


Russia’s Rosatom to start construction of 7th power unit at Chinese nuclear power plant

https://www.rt.com/business/443824-rosatom-china-npp-construction/

Geoengineering: Scarier than a Zombie Apocalypse? | Union of Concerned Scientists

Geoengineering: Scarier than a Zombie Apocalypse? | Union of Concerned Scientists: Just in time for Halloween, an episode that’ll scare the daylights out of you. Frank Keutsch joins us to explain what geoengineering is, why it isn’t a magic fix for climate change, and why we still need to greatly reduce CO2 emissions.

U.S. Advanced Nuclear Technology Projects to Receive $18 million from the U.S. Department of Energy | Department of Energy

U.S. Advanced Nuclear Technology Projects to Receive $18 million from the U.S. Department of Energy | Department of Energy: U.S. Advanced Nuclear Technology Projects to Receive $18 million from the U.S. Department of Energy

Clean Energy Is Surging, but Not Fast Enough to Solve Global Warming - The New York Times

Clean Energy Is Surging, but Not Fast Enough to Solve Global Warming - The New York Times

Forget the Trump Bailout—Here’s a Real Solution for Nuclear and the Climate - Union of Concerned Scientists

Forget the Trump Bailout—Here’s a Real Solution for Nuclear and the Climate - Union of Concerned Scientists: The Trump Administration’s proposal is a bad idea predicated on a made-up problem. Here's a better approach.

Subcontract awarded for Versatile Test Reactor | INL

Subcontract awarded for Versatile Test Reactor | INL

Nuclear Energy Institute - New UCS Report Links Preservation of Nuclear Plants to Climate and Clean Air

Nuclear Energy Institute - New UCS Report Links Preservation of Nuclear Plants to Climate and Clean Air: What's New? A really big deal in the energy and environment D.C. scene. The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) released a report today (11/8) acknowledging the impact that nuclear plant closures . . .

IAEA Team Completes Fourth Review of Japan's Plans to Decommission Fukushima Daiichi

IAEA Team Completes Fourth Review of Japan's Plans to Decommission Fukushima Daiichi

51/2018
Tokyo, Japan
Members of the IAEA's fourth peer review mission of Japan's plans to decommission Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, during a visit to the accident-stricken site on 7 November 2018. (Photo: J. Donovan/IAEA)
An International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) team of experts today completed the fourth review mission of Japan's efforts towards the decommissioning of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (NPS). The International Peer Review of Japan's Mid-and-Long-Term Roadmap Towards the Decommissioning of TEPCO's Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station took place from 5 to 13 November 2018.
The IAEA team said Japan has made significant progress since the accident in March 2011, advancing from an emergency situation towards a stable situation now. The team said this achievement will now allow Japan to focus more resources on detailed planning and implementation of decommissioning activities of the whole site, with considerations extended up to completion.
"Given the severity of the challenges faced from the outset of the accident, one can only be impressed by the dedication and the achievements of the people involved,” said team leader Christophe Xerri, Director of the IAEA’s Division of Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Waste Technology.
“Despite these achievements, many challenges remain to be tackled in the decommissioning process, and ensuring safety in this complex situation requires sustained daily attention.”
The mission, which followed two previous reviews in 2013 and one in 2015, examined a wide variety of issues at Fukushima Daiichi. The team reviewed progress since the 2015 mission, the current situation on site and future plans in areas such as water management, removal of spent fuel assemblies and retrieval of fuel debris, management of radioactive waste, and institutional and organizational matters.
The team held extensive discussions with officials from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) and the Nuclear Damage Compensation and Decommissioning Facilitation Corporation (NDF)—the national entity responsible for the decommissioning strategy for Fukushima Daiichi NPS—as well as other authorities. The team also visited the Fukushima Daiichi site to obtain first-hand information about the conditions and progress towards decommissioning.
In its Preliminary Summary Report delivered to Japanese authorities today, the team acknowledged a number of accomplishments since the 2015 mission, including:
  • The repair of subdrains and construction of the frozen soil wall around reactor Units 1-4, which have reduced groundwater ingress into the reactor buildings.
  • The construction of storage and processing facilities for the safe management of solid radioactive wastes.
  • Improved site working conditions including a reduced need for full protective gear, and real-time radiation monitoring easily accessed by the workforce.
  • Progress towards the removal of spent fuel from Units 1-3 as well as remote investigations of fuel debris by robots.
The team encouraged Japan to continue carrying out and enhancing its strategy for safely decommissioning and managing radioactive waste, and identified water management as critical to the sustainability of the overall project.
The team said the Government of Japan, in engaging all stakeholders, should urgently decide on a disposition path for treated water containing tritium and other residual radionuclides. The treated water is accumulating in tanks on site and is expected to reach the currently planned tank capacity within three to four years. The water may require further treatment to reduce radionuclides to authorized levels before any of the five disposition paths considered by the Government (ground injection, controlled discharge into the sea, discharge as steam, discharge as hydrogen, and solidification for underground burial) can be implemented. A decision on the disposition path is needed soon to ensure a safe and sustainable decommissioning and can only be implemented after a regulatory review, with the support of a robust environmental monitoring programme and a communication plan.
In addition, the team provided advice in areas where practices could be enhanced, including:
  • The Government should further strengthen a “project oriented” approach, including the provision of resources for comprehensive and integrated planning for the completion of decommissioning.
  • TEPCO and NDF should consider more detailed, long-term planning for managing wastes arising from the decommissioning project.
  • Considering the significant challenges and length of the project, sustained stakeholder interactions, appropriate knowledge management systems and broad international cooperation should be ensured.
“Japan has laid the groundwork to effectively address the next steps in risk reduction at Fukushima Daiichi,” Xerri said. “While the international community will learn a lot from these efforts, Japan too can benefit from international experience and cooperation in support of its work towards decommissioning.”
The team comprised 13 senior experts, including nine from the IAEA and four others from Indonesia, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.
The team plans to deliver its final report to the Government by the end of January.

Iran sticking to nuclear deal conditions: IAEA

Iran sticking to nuclear deal conditions: IAEA

Yes, Nuclear is the Better Option | RealClearEnergy

Yes, Nuclear is the Better Option | RealClearEnergy: Yes, Nuclear is the Better Option | RealClearEnergy

The Day - Nuclear waste dilemma - News from southeastern Connecticut

The Day - Nuclear waste dilemma - News from southeastern Connecticut: Congress should finally act on a permanent solution for the high-level nuclear waste piling up at plants and the sites of former plants.

World Energy Outlook Sees ‘Geographical Shift’ In Nuclear Growth

World Energy Outlook Sees ‘Geographical Shift’ In Nuclear Growth

IAEA Calls On Japan To Make Urgent Decision On Fukushima Waste Water Disposal

IAEA Calls On Japan To Make Urgent Decision On Fukushima Waste Water Disposal

Gas Will Become Second-Largest Energy Source By 2040 | OilPrice.com

Gas Will Become Second-Largest Energy Source By 2040 | OilPrice.com

IAEA Team Calls Fukushima Daiichi Site Stable - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

IAEA Team Calls Fukushima Daiichi Site Stable - 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.

IAEA urges quick plan on Fukushima radioactive water cleanup - SFGate

IAEA urges quick plan on Fukushima radioactive water cleanup - SFGate

To capture the extent of California’s wildfires, you need to see them from space - MIT Technology Review

To capture the extent of California’s wildfires, you need to see them from space - MIT Technology Review: A team from NASA has created maps using satellite data that show the areas most damaged by the ongoing Woolsey and Camp wildfires, the deadliest in the state’s history.

U.S. Could Become Single Largest Oil, Gas Producer: IEA | OilPrice.com

U.S. Could Become Single Largest Oil, Gas Producer: IEA | OilPrice.com: The United States will be the biggest contributor to global oil production growth in the period to 2040, accounting for 75 percent of the total, the International Energy Agency said

California utilities' equipment sparks wildfires, fallout - Power Engineering

California utilities' equipment sparks wildfires, fallout - Power Engineering

Russia Pulls Ahead In Middle East Nuclear Race

Russia Pulls Ahead In Middle East Nuclear Race



https://oilprice.com/Alternative-Energy/Nuclear-Power/Russia-Pulls-Ahead-In-Middle-East-Nuclear-Race.html

Kazatomprom IPO begins - World Nuclear News

Kazatomprom IPO begins - World Nuclear News: Conditional trading of shares in Kazakh uranium producer NAC Kazatomprom has today begun on the London Stock Exchange. The company is also due to float on the stock exchange of the Astana International Finance Centre.

Cost of US nuclear generation at ten-year low - World Nuclear News

Cost of US nuclear generation at ten-year low - World Nuclear News: Average total generating costs for nuclear energy in 2017 in the USA were at their lowest since 2008, according to a study released by the Nuclear Energy Institute.

Investment needed to maintain nuclear's key role, says IEA - World Nuclear News

Investment needed to maintain nuclear's key role, says IEA - World Nuclear News: A lack of investment in extending the operating periods of existing reactors and the construction of new ones could have "major implications" for the security of electricity supply and achieving environmental targets, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned.

INL names new Science and Technology deputy laboratory director | Local News | postregister.com

INL names new Science and Technology deputy laboratory director | Local News | postregister.com

Analysis: ISO New England power dailies, forwards follow higher gas prices | S&P Global Platts

Analysis: ISO New England power dailies, forwards follow higher gas prices | S&P Global Platts: Nuclear outages boost gas generation Nov, Dec, Jan natural gas up ISO New England power prices strengthened in October, compared with both this September and last October, partly due to shoulder month

The Woolsey Fire may have disturbed the nuclear waste site at Santa Susana — Quartz

The Woolsey Fire may have disturbed the nuclear waste site at Santa Susana — Quartz: The state says no, and a group of doctors say yes.

SCE&G ignored ‘stop signs’ about failed nuclear project, utility consultant testifies Read more here: https://www.thestate.com/news/state/south-carolina/article221535720.html#storylink=cpy

SCE&G ignored ‘stop signs’ about failed nuclear project, utility consultant testifies

https://www.thestate.com/news/state/south-carolina/article221535720.html 


Read more here: https://www.thestate.com/news/state/south-carolina/article221535720.html#storylink=cpy

US Withdrawal from INF Treaty: Implications for Asia Pacific

US Withdrawal from INF Treaty: Implications for Asia Pacific: Arkady SAVITSKY: The US is encouraging an arms race in the Asia Pacific region. It has adopted a policy of encirclement with its potential enemies in the crosshairs of its intermediate-range weapons.

US Pressure Fails to Affect Russia’s Growing Arms Exports

US Pressure Fails to Affect Russia’s Growing Arms Exports: Arkady SAVITSKY: The US-imposed sanctions have failed to reduce the demand for Russian weapons. China, India as well as many other countries refuse to bow.

Nuclear Treaties: Unwrapping Armageddon

Nuclear Treaties: Unwrapping Armageddon: The decision by the Trump administration to withdraw from the Intermediate Nuclear Force Agreement (INF) appears to be part of a broader strategy aimed at unwinding over 50 years of agreements to control and limit nuclear weapons, returning to an era characterized by the unbridled development weapons of mass destruction.

EM Update November 13, 2018

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EM Update | Vol. 10, Issue 45 | Nov. 13, 2018
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