Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Saturday, March 30, 2019

California Governor Disapproves of Proposed PG&E Board - WSJ

California Governor Disapproves of Proposed PG&E Board - WSJ: California Gov. Gavin Newsom strongly criticized what he described as plans by PG&E Corp. to stack its board of directors with hedge fund financiers interested in “prioritizing quick profits for Wall Street over public safety.”

California's Governor Criticizes PG&E Over Board Plans -- Occupational Health & Safety

California's Governor Criticizes PG&E Over Board Plans -- Occupational Health & Safety: Gov. Gavin Newsom's letter criticized what he described as the company's plans "to reconstitute its board with hedge fund financiers, out-of-state executives and others with little or no experience in California and inadequate expertise in utility operations, regulation and safety."

Fire report could complicate PG&E bankruptcy decision | Milbank Monitor

Fire report could complicate PG&E bankruptcy decision | Milbank Monitor

PG&E Argues Proposed Probation Restriction Will Guarantee Violations - NBC Bay Area

PG&E Argues Proposed Probation Restriction Will Guarantee Violations - NBC Bay Area: A judge’s proposal to order PG&E to fully comply with all state standards to keep trees clear from power lines is unworkable, the utility argues, and would almost guarantee probation violations given that...

Report: Creditors crafting a plan to lift PG&E out of bankruptcy

Report: Creditors crafting a plan to lift PG&E out of bankruptcy: PG&E won't announce its proposed slate of board members until next week, the electric company said in a filing to regulators on Friday.

The two key reasons the world can’t reverse climate emissions

The two key reasons the world can’t reverse climate emissions

New figures show we’re using more energy and still pumping out more emissions—so why aren’t we moving the dial?



https://www.technologyreview.com/s/613236/the-two-key-reasons-the-world-cant-reverse-climate-emissions/?utm_campaign=the_download.unpaid.engagement&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=71264758&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-8or9D3RuYxaDAZEPxW1-E-7sZXDvx2WehGnOuMqxLktogVKyBFducRdg3ocvtlbkn-xOAfBe6jLEbGkqnw4I0sorbQRttlVJI7GgBmoa1MXKhso-k&_hsmi=71264758

Nine Million Canadians Cite Climate as Vote-Determining Issue | Energy Central

Nine Million Canadians Cite Climate as Vote-Determining Issue | Energy Central

Energy Security: Is Kenya ready for Nuclear power? : The Standard

Energy Security: Is Kenya ready for Nuclear power? : The Standard: The Pros and Cons of the Nuclear Option

Nuclear Power in Pennsylvania, Is it Worth Saving? - Erie News Now | WICU and WSEE in Erie, PA

Nuclear Power in Pennsylvania, Is it Worth Saving? - Erie News Now | WICU and WSEE in Erie, PA

Nuclear waste leak at Koeberg: don't believe everything you read

Nuclear waste leak at Koeberg: don't believe everything you read

EurActive.com: Nuclear power excluded from EU’s green investment label | KyivPost - Ukraine's Global Voice

EurActive.com: Nuclear power excluded from EU’s green investment label | KyivPost - Ukraine's Global Voice: The European Parliament voted on a proposed classification for sustainable assets on Thursday (28 March), voting to exclude nuclear power from receiving a green stamp of approval on financial markets. Read more here. Found a spelling error? Let us know – highlight it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Poll: Public split on whether Pa. nuclear subsidies - WHYY

Poll: Public split on whether Pa. nuclear subsidies - WHYY: A new poll found Pennsylvania voters generally support nuclear energy, but on the question of whether the state should prop up struggling plants, that support is mixed. The poll was conducted by Franklin & Marshall in partnership with PA Post.

Trump team and Congress spar over nuclear energy transfers to Saudis

Trump team and Congress spar over nuclear energy transfers to Saudis: The Trump administration has given permission to a handful of U.S. companies to engage in early stage nuclear energy trade with Saudi Arabia.

Trump administration authorized nuclear energy companies to share information with Saudi Arabia - U.S. - Stripes

Trump administration authorized nuclear energy companies to share information with Saudi Arabia - U.S. - Stripes

Trump administration authorized nuclear energy companies to share technological information with Saudi Arabia - SFGate

Trump administration authorized nuclear energy companies to share technological information with Saudi Arabia - SFGate

Akron, Summit County Leaders Work To Save Nuclear Plants | News | ideastream

Akron, Summit County Leaders Work To Save Nuclear Plants | News | ideastream: Summit County officials have reached out to Ohio leaders, asking them to find a way to keep the Davis-Besse and Perry nuclear power plants open. The...

If You Cannot Trust Saudis With Bone Saw, Says US Lawmaker, 'You Should Not Trust Them With Nuclear Weapons'

If You Cannot Trust Saudis With Bone Saw, Says US Lawmaker, 'You Should Not Trust Them With Nuclear Weapons': Trump administration's secret authorizations of nuclear technology sales to Saudi Arabia spark alarm in Congress

Feds question plans to decommission Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station - News - capecodtimes.com - Hyannis, MA

Feds question plans to decommission Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station - News - capecodtimes.com - Hyannis, MA

Radioactive waste site seeks more out-of-state material - News - Austin American-Statesman - Austin, TX

Radioactive waste site seeks more out-of-state material - News - Austin American-Statesman - Austin, TX

Nuclear Legislation Caps Off Nuclear Innovation Week | Hogan Lovells - JDSupra

Nuclear Legislation Caps Off Nuclear Innovation Week | Hogan Lovells - JDSupra: The reintroduction of Nuclear Energy Leadership Act (NELA) caps off a week of activities focused on innovation, and follows on advancement of key U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission...

Why North Korea Won't Succumb to 'Maximum Pressure' | The National Interest

Why North Korea Won't Succumb to 'Maximum Pressure' | The National Interest: How many more bets on North Korean surrender can America afford to go wrong?

Bipartisan Bill In Senate Would Boost US Nuclear Industry


Bipartisan Bill In Senate Would Boost US Nuclear Industry


https://neutronbytes.com/2019/03/30/bipartisan-bill-in-senate-would-boost-us-nuclear-industry/

Triton is the world’s most murderous malware, and it’s spreading


Triton is the world’s most murderous malware, and it’s spreading

The rogue code can disable safety systems designed to prevent catastrophic industrial accidents. It was discovered in the Middle East, but the hackers behind it are now targeting companies in North America and other parts of the world, too.


https://www.technologyreview.com/s/613054/cybersecurity-critical-infrastructure-triton-malware/?utm_campaign=weekend_reads.unpaid.engagement&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=71282619&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_BdeKNPCMe2-wtUPMvrQOuhTf97_2HtwjikZnzZRQzCV6pNANtx8gos2exm8js4Nzb9FumdxEAlEbp9CHQiTSMomGBlD7LkbJOkOy-2pi7ZZ_E-nc&_hsmi=71282619

The new, safer nuclear reactors that might help stop climate change

The new, safer nuclear reactors that might help stop climate change

From sodium-cooled fission to advanced fusion, a fresh generation of projects hopes to rekindle trust in nuclear energy.



https://www.technologyreview.com/s/612940/the-new-safer-nuclear-reactors-that-might-help-stop-climate-change/?utm_campaign=weekend_reads.unpaid.engagement&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=71282619&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_BdeKNPCMe2-wtUPMvrQOuhTf97_2HtwjikZnzZRQzCV6pNANtx8gos2exm8js4Nzb9FumdxEAlEbp9CHQiTSMomGBlD7LkbJOkOy-2pi7ZZ_E-nc&_hsmi=71282619

Fail-Safe Nuclear Power


Fail-Safe Nuclear Power

Cheaper and cleaner nuclear plants could finally become reality—but not in the United States, where the technology was invented more than 50 years ago.


https://www.technologyreview.com/s/602051/fail-safe-nuclear-power/?utm_campaign=weekend_reads.unpaid.engagement&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=71282619&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_BdeKNPCMe2-wtUPMvrQOuhTf97_2HtwjikZnzZRQzCV6pNANtx8gos2exm8js4Nzb9FumdxEAlEbp9CHQiTSMomGBlD7LkbJOkOy-2pi7ZZ_E-nc&_hsmi=71282619

Map of the World’s Neutrinos Exposes Nuclear Activity Wherever It’s Happening


Map of the World’s Neutrinos Exposes Nuclear Activity Wherever It’s Happening

A seemingly unsubstantial particle called a neutrino is opening a new window on the world.


https://www.technologyreview.com/s/541146/map-of-the-worlds-neutrinos-exposes-nuclear-activity-wherever-its-happening/?utm_campaign=weekend_reads.unpaid.engagement&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=71282619&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_BdeKNPCMe2-wtUPMvrQOuhTf97_2HtwjikZnzZRQzCV6pNANtx8gos2exm8js4Nzb9FumdxEAlEbp9CHQiTSMomGBlD7LkbJOkOy-2pi7ZZ_E-nc&_hsmi=71282619

Going Nuclear: The Global Power Picture


Going Nuclear: The Global Power Picture
Shortly after the Fukushima disaster, countries were divided on how to proceed with atomic power. While some countries slowed their nuclear programs, others doubled down.

https://www.technologyreview.com/s/526316/going-nuclear-the-global-power-picture/?utm_campaign=weekend_reads.unpaid.engagement&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=71282619&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_BdeKNPCMe2-wtUPMvrQOuhTf97_2HtwjikZnzZRQzCV6pNANtx8gos2exm8js4Nzb9FumdxEAlEbp9CHQiTSMomGBlD7LkbJOkOy-2pi7ZZ_E-nc&_hsmi=71282619

Why Don’t We Have More Nuclear Power?

Why Don’t We Have More Nuclear Power?

The role of this virtually carbon-free power source has shrunk since its peak in 1996.



https://www.technologyreview.com/s/537816/why-dont-we-have-more-nuclear-power/?utm_campaign=weekend_reads.unpaid.engagement&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=71282619&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_BdeKNPCMe2-wtUPMvrQOuhTf97_2HtwjikZnzZRQzCV6pNANtx8gos2exm8js4Nzb9FumdxEAlEbp9CHQiTSMomGBlD7LkbJOkOy-2pi7ZZ_E-nc&_hsmi=71282619

Fukushima’s nuclear signature found in California wine



Fukushima’s nuclear signature found in California wine

The Japanese nuclear disaster bathed north America in a radioactive cloud. Now pharmacologists have found the telltale signature in California wine made at the time.


https://www.technologyreview.com/s/611654/fukushimas-nuclear-signature-found-in-california-wine/?utm_campaign=weekend_reads.unpaid.engagement&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=71282619&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_BdeKNPCMe2-wtUPMvrQOuhTf97_2HtwjikZnzZRQzCV6pNANtx8gos2exm8js4Nzb9FumdxEAlEbp9CHQiTSMomGBlD7LkbJOkOy-2pi7ZZ_E-nc&_hsmi=71282619

Notes on a Meltdown


Notes on a Meltdown

The presidential commission investigating the Three Mile Island accident learned that the problems rested with people, not technology.


https://www.technologyreview.com/s/415843/notes-on-a-meltdown/?utm_campaign=weekend_reads.unpaid.engagement&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=71282619&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_BdeKNPCMe2-wtUPMvrQOuhTf97_2HtwjikZnzZRQzCV6pNANtx8gos2exm8js4Nzb9FumdxEAlEbp9CHQiTSMomGBlD7LkbJOkOy-2pi7ZZ_E-nc&_hsmi=71282619

Rick Perry warned about quake hazards at Nevada nuke storage site | Las Vegas Review-Journal

Rick Perry warned about quake hazards at Nevada nuke storage site | Las Vegas Review-Journal

IAEA SMR Regulators’ Forum Shares Experiences on New Reactors | IAEA

IAEA SMR Regulators’ Forum Shares Experiences on New Reactors | IAEA

The two key reasons the world can’t reverse climate emissions - MIT Technology Review

The two key reasons the world can’t reverse climate emissions - MIT Technology Review: New figures show we’re using more energy and still pumping out more emissions—so why aren’t we moving the dial?

Iran welcomes Luxembourg court decision on U.S. seizure of Iranian assets | Reuters

Iran welcomes Luxembourg court decision on U.S. seizure of Iranian assets | Reuters: Iran welcomed on Thursday a Luxembourg court's decision to refuse to reinforce a U.S. ruling that would have helped families of victims of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks claim Iranian assets held by a Luxembourg-based clearing house.

Wildfire Victims Continue Challenge to PG&E Bankruptcy Financing - WSJ

Wildfire Victims Continue Challenge to PG&E Bankruptcy Financing - WSJ: PG&E has failed to persuade victims of wildfires sparked by its equipment to go along with a $5.5 billion loan, terms of which allow Wall Street banks to start dismantling the company if things go seriously wrong in bankruptcy court.

PG&E Proposed Bankruptcy Bonus Should Be Denied: U.S. Trustee

PG&E Proposed Bankruptcy Bonus Should Be Denied: U.S. Trustee: The utility has not provided enough details to verify that no insiders will benefit from a 2019 bonus pool whose payouts could be as much as $350 million, the U.S. Trustee said in an objection filed March 26.

Report: Creditors crafting a plan to lift PG&E out of bankruptcy

Report: Creditors crafting a plan to lift PG&E out of bankruptcy: PG&E won't announce its proposed slate of board members until next week, the electric company said in a filing to regulators on Friday.

PG&E Argues Proposed Probation Restriction Will Guarantee Violations - NBC Bay Area

PG&E Argues Proposed Probation Restriction Will Guarantee Violations - NBC Bay Area: A judge’s proposal to order PG&E to fully comply with all state standards to keep trees clear from power lines is unworkable, the utility argues, and would almost guarantee probation violations given that...

Pimco, Other PG&E Creditors Said to Pitch $35 Billion Plan

Pimco, Other PG&E Creditors Said to Pitch $35 Billion Plan: Pacific Investment Management Co., Elliott Management Corp. and Davidson Kempner Capital Management have been meeting with California lawmakers and other stakeholders to discuss the proposal, the people said, asking not to be identified because the discussions are private. The plan would establish a

California Governor Newsom Blasts PG&E Directors Plan: Karen M. Lockhart Statement

California Governor Newsom Blasts PG&E Directors Plan: Karen M. Lockhart Statement: Oakland News Now Today | SF Bay Area - California Governor Newsom Blasts PG&E Directors Plan: Karen M. Lockhart Statement

Judge OKs $5.5B Financing Package for PG&E - CFO

Judge OKs $5.5B Financing Package for PG&E - CFO: The Chapter 11 financing is secured by PG&E assets, raising concerns over what could happen if the utilty defaults.

Exclusive: PG&E's future rests on board picks, CPUC president says | Utility Dive

Exclusive: PG&E's future rests on board picks, CPUC president says | Utility Dive: Utility industry news, voices and jobs for energy industry professionals. Optimized for your mobile phone.

PG&E delays board nominations after Newsom’s criticism - SFChronicle.com

PG&E delays board nominations after Newsom’s criticism - SFChronicle.com: PG&E wants to replace at least half of its board, but the company delayed its nomination announcement a day after Gov. Newsom blasted the proposed choices.

Newsom Blasts PG&E For Possible Board Picks | myMotherLode.com

Newsom Blasts PG&E For Possible Board Picks | myMotherLode.com: The governor got a sneak peek at the list of those being considered for director seats and was not happy.

California Gov. Newsom criticizes new board that PG&E is reportedly preparing to propose

California Gov. Newsom criticizes new board that PG&E is reportedly preparing to propose


https://www.redding.com/story/news/2019/03/28/pg-e-primed-name-board-members-too-little-experience-newsom/3302321002/

Friday, March 29, 2019

Bill Gates casts his vote for Senate bill to speed up nuclear research – GeekWire

Bill Gates casts his vote for Senate bill to speed up nuclear research – GeekWire

Utility industry aids Putin’s stealth war on US uranium mining - Conservative Review

Utility industry aids Putin’s stealth war on US uranium mining - Conservative Review: American uranium mining is at a historic low.

U.S. approved secret nuclear power work for Saudi Arabia | Reuters

U.S. approved secret nuclear power work for Saudi Arabia | Reuters: U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry has approved six secret authorizations by companies to sell nuclear power technology and assistance to Saudi Arabia, according to a copy of a document seen by Reuters on Wednesday.

SRS completes first batch in waste removal pilot project - News - The Augusta Chronicle - Augusta, GA

SRS completes first batch in waste removal pilot project - News - The Augusta Chronicle - Augusta, GA

Senate committee wants Yucca Mountain decision now | Las Vegas Review-Journal

Senate committee wants Yucca Mountain decision now | Las Vegas Review-Journal

CLIMATE: Perry backs 'New Manhattan Project' -- Thursday, March 28, 2019 -- www.eenews.net

CLIMATE: Perry backs 'New Manhattan Project' -- Thursday, March 28, 2019 -- www.eenews.net: Energy Secretary Rick Perry was positive yesterday about a Republican proposal to dramatically increase clean energy research spending in response to climate change.

Energy Department, S.C. working to schedule settlement sit-down for plutonium lawsuit | News | aikenstandard.com

Energy Department, S.C. working to schedule settlement sit-down for plutonium lawsuit | News | aikenstandard.com

UK fusion scientists secure new funding despite Brexit - World Nuclear News

UK fusion scientists secure new funding despite Brexit - World Nuclear News: The UK and the European Commission signed a contract extension today for the world’s largest fusion research facility, Joint European Torus. The extension secures at least EUR100 million (USD112 million) in additional inward investment from the EU over the next two years and "brings reassurance" for the more than 500 staff at the site in Culham, near Oxford, the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy said.

FANR in final stages of Barakah licensing process - World Nuclear News

FANR in final stages of Barakah licensing process - World Nuclear News: The head of the United Arab Emirates Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation, which this week inaugurated a new Emergency Operations Centre, has said it is in the final stages of preparations but not yet ready to issue the operating licence for the Barakah nuclear power plant.

Bill Gates 'thrilled' by legislative boost for nuclear - World Nuclear News

Bill Gates 'thrilled' by legislative boost for nuclear - World Nuclear News: The Nuclear Energy Leadership Act, bipartisan draft legislation which aims to accelerate the development of advanced nuclear technologies and re-establish US leadership in nuclear energy has been re-introduced to the US Senate.

Wrap Up: Advanced Nuclear Power Bill Reintroduced in Senate - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1

Wrap Up: Advanced Nuclear Power Bill Reintroduced in Senate - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

Bill Gates casts his vote for Senate bill to speed up nuclear research – GeekWire

Bill Gates casts his vote for Senate bill to speed up nuclear research – GeekWire

Living Near a Nuclear Power Plant

Living Near a Nuclear Power Plant: (WBRE/WYOU-TV)  It is the 40th Anniversary of the partial meltdown of Three Mile Island Nuclear power plant.

Washington’s Secret Nuclear Deal With Saudi Arabia | OilPrice.com

Washington’s Secret Nuclear Deal With Saudi Arabia | OilPrice.com: According to a document obtained by Reuters, the U.S. has secretly given the go ahead to several companies to sell nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia

Trump administration authorized nuclear energy companies to share technological information with Saudi Arabia - The Washington Post

Trump administration authorized nuclear energy companies to share technological information with Saudi Arabia - The Washington Post: The authorizations occurred even though Saudi Arabia has not agreed to anti-proliferation rules.

US issues secret approvals to firms for nuclear power work in Saudi Arabia, Energy & Commodities - THE BUSINESS TIMES

US issues secret approvals to firms for nuclear power work in Saudi Arabia, Energy & Commodities - THE BUSINESS TIMES

Trump Administration Approves Secret Nuclear Power Work For Saudi Arabia | HuffPost

Trump Administration Approves Secret Nuclear Power Work For Saudi Arabia | HuffPost

Trump administration approves secret nuclear power work for Saudi Arabia

Trump administration approves secret nuclear power work for Saudi Arabia

Debris probing robot for Fukushima nuclear plant shown to media - The Mainichi

Debris probing robot for Fukushima nuclear plant shown to media - The Mainichi: HITACHI, Ibaraki -- The International Research Institute for Nuclear Decommissioning (IRID) on March 28 unveiled a robot that will be used to probe th

Post-Fukushima, Japan turns against nuclear power | News | witf.org

Post-Fukushima, Japan turns against nuclear power | News | witf.org: As a boy, Yuji Onuma won a contest to create the town slogan for Futaba, Japan. His phrase --

40 Years Later: Three Mile Island, Nation’s Worst Nuclear Power Plant Disaster In History – CBS Pittsburgh

40 Years Later: Three Mile Island, Nation’s Worst Nuclear Power Plant Disaster In History – CBS Pittsburgh

The "Nuclear power conversation" | WHP

The "Nuclear power conversation" | WHP: WHP CBS 21 Harrisburg provides local news, weather, sports, community events and items of interest for Harrisburg Lancaster Lebanon York and nearby towns and communities in the greater Harrisburg area including, Hershey, Hummelstown, Palmyra, Jonestown, Annville, Gettysburg, East Berlin, New Oxford, Littlestown, Biglerville, New Cumberland, Lemoyne, Wormleysburg, Camp Hill, Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, Shippensburg, Newville, Middletown, Halifax, Steelton, Mount Joy, Elizabethtown, Lititz, Millersville, Columbia, Quarryville, Ephrata, New Holland, Dillsburg, Etters, Enola, Lewisberry, Manchester, Red Lion, Glen Rock, Shrewsbury, Dallastown, Hanover, Chambersburg, Mont Alto, Greencastle, Fayetteville, Mercersburg, Waynesboro, Chambersburg, Reading, Newport, New Bloomfield, Marysville, Duncannon, New Buffalo.

Uncertainty shadows Pennsylvania’s nuclear power future | Fox News

Uncertainty shadows Pennsylvania’s nuclear power future | Fox News

Southern California Edison Fined for Its Handling of Nuke Canisters - NBC Southern California

Southern California Edison Fined for Its Handling of Nuke Canisters - NBC Southern California: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is fining the Southern California Edison utility $116,000 for violations in its handling of nuclear canisters at the shuttered San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station.

PG&E Bankruptcy Should Not Impact Diablo Canyon Decommissioning: NRC - ExchangeMonitor

PG&E Bankruptcy Should Not Impact Diablo Canyon Decommissioning: NRC - ExchangeMonitor: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

The beginning of a new era as Oyster Creek begins decommissioning process | Video | NJTV News

The beginning of a new era as Oyster Creek begins decommissioning process | Video | NJTV News: The Oyster Creek Nuclear Plant has been a fixture in Lacey Township for nearly five decades. The plant went online in 1969 and produced enough energy for 600,000 homes in New Jersey. But that all came to an end in the fall of 20108 when Oyster Creek went offline, permanently.

NRC hosting open house on Point Beach Nuclear Power Plant performance | WLUK

NRC hosting open house on Point Beach Nuclear Power Plant performance | WLUK: TWO RIVERS (WLUK) -- A public open house will discuss the performance of a Manitowoc County nuclear plant. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission Staff will talk about the safety performance of the Point Beach Nuclear Power Plant on April 3. The open house is set from 6-7 p. m. at the Lester Public Library, 1001 Adams St. in Two Rivers. NRC employees responsible for plant inspections will be available to answer the public's questions. In 2018, staff reports the plant operated safely.

Intel: How the Trump administration is using a loophole to transfer nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia

Intel: How the Trump administration is using a loophole to transfer nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo came under fire while testifying on Capitol Hill today over the Donald Trump administration’s transfer of nuclear technology to Saudi Arabia. The Energy Department, lawmakers revealed, has issued at least six authorizations for Saudi Arabia under Section 810 of the Atomic Energy Act, which allows US companies to provide nuclear technology or technical...

A Saudi nuclear deal is causing lawmakers from both parties to worry

A Saudi nuclear deal is causing lawmakers from both parties to worry: The concern is whether Trump's administration is attempting to skirt legal oversight involving a potential nuclear agreement with Saudi Arabia.

Statement from DOE Press Secretary on Saudi Arabia | Department of Energy

Statement from DOE Press Secretary on Saudi Arabia | Department of Energy: Statement from DOE Press Secretary on Saudi Arabia

With Pilgrim Nuclear Plant Set To Retire, There Are Questions About Decommissioning Trust Fund | EarthWhile

With Pilgrim Nuclear Plant Set To Retire, There Are Questions About Decommissioning Trust Fund | EarthWhile

NRC meets with public, reviews Pilgrim reranking - News - Wicked Local Plymouth - Plymouth, MA

NRC meets with public, reviews Pilgrim reranking - News - Wicked Local Plymouth - Plymouth, MA

Edison Fined $116,000 for "Near-Miss" at San Onofre Power Plant

Edison Fined $116,000 for "Near-Miss" at San Onofre Power Plant: On Monday, about seven months after workers nearly dropped a canister filled with spent nuclear fuel rods at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SON

NRC faces heat after Pilgrim upgrade - UNKNOWN - The Enterprise, Brockton, MA - Brockton, MA

NRC faces heat after Pilgrim upgrade - UNKNOWN - The Enterprise, Brockton, MA - Brockton, MA

Nuclear Regulatory Commission Gives Pilgrim Its Final Annual Assessment | WCAI

Nuclear Regulatory Commission Gives Pilgrim Its Final Annual Assessment | WCAI: The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission says Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station has been improving its safety since 2016, but the official reclassification

Fukushima Update 3/29/2019

Fukushima Update 3/29/2019 –

F. Daiichi Unit #1 containment to be robot-probed this summer… The evacuation order for much of the town Okuma will be lifted April 10th…. All flanged wastewater tanks at F. Daiichi have been replaced… A lawsuit for cessation of operations for Ohi units #3 & #4 is rejected… Tepco is ordered to pay additional compensation… Japanese doctor’s say iodine should be given to all nearby residents under the age of 40.

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

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire March 29, 2019

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire
March 29, 2019

Sen. Alexander Pushes for Meeting with Perry on Yucca

During Wednesday's Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development hearing to examine the FY 2020 budget request for the Department of Energy (DOE) Chairman Sen. Lamar Alexander (R-TN) informed DOE Secretary Rick Perry that he hopes to meet with him and other top senators within the next two weeks in order to discuss ways of solving an impasse over the Yucca Mountain nuclear repository that has dodged the appropriations process for years. 
 
"If we don't collectively take action, what we have said to the American people is that we have decided on permanent disposal of high-level nuclear waste as it is in the 39 states where it resides today," Perry said.
 
Senator's Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) who also sit on the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee agreed that the Yucca Mountain stalemate risks hindering the development of advanced nuclear technology. The full hearing can be viewed HERE.
 
 

Trump’s Iran Policy Is ‘Untethered to History’ – Foreign Policy

Trump’s Iran Policy Is ‘Untethered to History’ – Foreign Policy: Veteran diplomat William Burns on the U.S. president, Putin, Iraq, and the “militarization” of American diplomacy.

Trump administration authorized nuclear energy companies to share technological information with Saudi Arabia - The Washington Post

Trump administration authorized nuclear energy companies to share technological information with Saudi Arabia - The Washington Post: The authorizations occurred even though Saudi Arabia has not agreed to anti-proliferation rules.

Thursday, March 28, 2019

Rafi Eitan, spy at center of Israel’s great uranium heist from the U.S.

Rafi Eitan, spy at center of Israel’s great uranium heist from the U.S. 

https://mondoweiss.net/2019/03/center-israels-uranium/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=center-israels-uranium&utm_source=Mondoweiss+List&utm_campaign=e490fcdd93-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_b86bace129-e490fcdd93-398529325&mc_cid=e490fcdd93&mc_eid=8d56ed3dc5

DOE Issues Request for Information on Advanced Nuclear Reactors | Energy Central

DOE Issues Request for Information on Advanced Nuclear Reactors | Energy Central

The Dirty Secret Of Renewables Advocates Is That They Protect Fossil Fuel Interests, Not The Climate

The Dirty Secret Of Renewables Advocates Is That They Protect Fossil Fuel Interests, Not The Climate: For 50 years, anti-nuclear groups have used renewables to greenwash the killing of nuclear plants and the inevitable rise in air pollution that results.

Energy secretary Rick Perry talks Hanford costs at hearing | Tri-City Herald

Energy secretary Rick Perry talks Hanford costs at hearing | Tri-City Herald

MOX termination should be complete by fiscal year 2021, DOE budget documents show | News | aikenstandard.com

MOX termination should be complete by fiscal year 2021, DOE budget documents show | News | aikenstandard.com

Perry defends proposed 2020 budget despite cuts to 'critical' programs - Federal News Network

Perry defends proposed 2020 budget despite cuts to 'critical' programs - Federal News Network: Lawmakers say a decrease in funding for Energy's 2020 budget could hurt "critical" energy and national security programs, as well as global competitiveness. Secretary Rick Perry defends cuts, claiming the agency is becoming more sustainable with its investments.

40 Years After Three Mile Island, Americans Split on Nuclear Power

40 Years After Three Mile Island, Americans Split on Nuclear Power: Four decades after the Three Mile Island nuclear accident, Americans are evenly split on the use of nuclear energy.

WANO warns export controls are impacting its work - World Nuclear News

WANO warns export controls are impacting its work - World Nuclear News: The World Association of Nuclear Operators announced today it is encouraging governments worldwide to ensure that national export control laws do not adversely affect its ability to maximise the safe operation of commercial nuclear power plants.

Tepco completes Fukushima water storage upgrade - World Nuclear News

Tepco completes Fukushima water storage upgrade - World Nuclear News: Bolted flange tanks at Fukushima Daiichi, which had previously leaked, are no longer in use. Tokyo Electric Power Company has completed the transfer of the treated water to new welded tanks onsite while it awaits permission to discharge.

Action needed to keep US nuclear competitive - Korsnick - World Nuclear News

Action needed to keep US nuclear competitive - Korsnick - World Nuclear News: US nuclear plants are performing better than ever before - but now is the time to act to ensure the benefits that nuclear energy provides are protected, Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) president and CEO Maria Korsnick said in her 2019 State of the Industry address.

Russia completes upgrade of third Smolensk RBMK - World Nuclear News

Russia completes upgrade of third Smolensk RBMK - World Nuclear News: Rosatom has announced completion of life-extending  modernisation work at unit 3 of the Smolensk nuclear power plant, the last of three RBMK-1000 reactors at the site in western Russia. The other two units are already set for an extended period of operation of 15 years.

Nuclear Developments on the Water | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Nuclear Developments on the Water | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Friday Nuclear Matinee 3/22: STURGIS Construction Report | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Friday Nuclear Matinee 3/22: STURGIS Construction Report | ANS Nuclear Cafe

RadioNuclear #17: Is Japan Warming Up to Nuclear? Ed McGinnis Guests [Part 2]! | ANS Nuclear Cafe

RadioNuclear #17: Is Japan Warming Up to Nuclear? Ed McGinnis Guests [Part 2]! | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Lawmakers concerned about Trump administration's authorization for 6 nuclear-related projects in Saudi Arabia - ABC News

Lawmakers concerned about Trump administration's authorization for 6 nuclear-related projects in Saudi Arabia - ABC News: Congress is demanding greater oversight into the Trump administration's approval of nuclear-related projects for Saudi Arabia amid concerns the country may pursue a bomb.

Texas coal-plant owner: “Coal is on its way out” - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists

Texas coal-plant owner: “Coal is on its way out” - Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists: A new study found that about 75 percent of coal production is more expensive than renewables. Could coal—finally—be facing the exit door?

CEOs Say Preserving the Nuclear Power Fleet Is Imperative

CEOs Say Preserving the Nuclear Power Fleet Is Imperative

CLIMATE: Perry backs 'New Manhattan Project' -- Thursday, March 28, 2019 -- www.eenews.net

CLIMATE: Perry backs 'New Manhattan Project' -- Thursday, March 28, 2019 -- www.eenews.net: Energy Secretary Rick Perry was positive yesterday about a Republican proposal to dramatically increase clean energy research spending in response to climate change.

Energy chief Perry OKs deal to share nuke tech with Saudis

Energy chief Perry OKs deal to share nuke tech with Saudis: WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration has approved seven applications for U.S. companies to sell nuclear power technology and assistance to Saudi Arabia, the Energy Department said...

Senators Could Try Again on Spent Fuel Interim Storage Bill - ExchangeMonitor

Senators Could Try Again on Spent Fuel Interim Storage Bill - ExchangeMonitor: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

Tim Echols column: Why Georgia doesn't need the Green New Deal - Opinion - Savannah Morning News - Savannah, GA

Tim Echols column: Why Georgia doesn't need the Green New Deal - Opinion - Savannah Morning News - Savannah, GA: Much has been made about the Green New Deal and hope for a national energy plan. I have pushed back against this proposal much the same way I resisted the “Clean Power Plan” from several years ago. Here’s why I am concerned.First, our overall electricity prices are currently sitting at 15 percent below the national average, according to power company comparisons using Energy Information Administration data. Our competitive electricity prices have been good for both

Senate committee wants Yucca Mountain decision now | Las Vegas Review-Journal

Senate committee wants Yucca Mountain decision now | Las Vegas Review-Journal: A Trump administration proposal to open Yucca Mountain and other interim sites for nuclear waste storage got a friendly reception Wednesday from key Senate lawmakers.

Green New Deal Would End Productive, Low-Carbon Nuclear Power

Green New Deal Would End Productive, Low-Carbon Nuclear Power: (Screenshot) Nuclear power plants are becoming more efficient and reliable. So nuclear energy production peaked in 2018, even though some nuclear power plants have been shut down.

The Dirty Secret Of Renewables Advocates Is That They Protect Fossil Fuel Interests, Not The Climate

The Dirty Secret Of Renewables Advocates Is That They Protect Fossil Fuel Interests, Not The Climate: For 50 years, anti-nuclear groups have used renewables to greenwash the killing of nuclear plants and the inevitable rise in air pollution that results.

'Three Mile Island' Nuclear Accident Wasn't All It's Cracked Up to Be

'Three Mile Island' Nuclear Accident Wasn't All It's Cracked Up to Be: When government exaggerates the risks of radiation exposure, it is not protecting the public.

The 40th Anniversary Of Three Mile Island -- Did Anything Bad Ever Happen?

The 40th Anniversary Of Three Mile Island -- Did Anything Bad Ever Happen?: Four o’clock this morning, marked the 40th Anniversary of the partial meltdown of Unit #2 at the Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station. The accident achieved mythological status, even though no one was hurt and deaths occur every year at all other types of power plants except nuclear.

California Governor Disapproves of Proposed PG&E Board - WSJ

California Governor Disapproves of Proposed PG&E Board - WSJ: California Gov. Gavin Newsom strongly criticized what he described as plans by PG&E Corp. to stack its board of directors with hedge fund financiers interested in “prioritizing quick profits for Wall Street over public safety.”

What’s Next for PG&E Corporation Stock? - Market Realist

What’s Next for PG&E Corporation Stock? - Market Realist: According to Reuters, PG&E (PCG) won a court approval on March 27 for a $5.5 billion loan to help keep up its electric and gas delivery operations.

California wildfire rating risks spread to public utilities | Bond Buyer

California wildfire rating risks spread to public utilities | Bond Buyer: Moody's Investors Service placed several public utility credits on negative outlook.

Judge OKs $5.5B Loan Package for Embattled Utility

Judge OKs $5.5B Loan Package for Embattled Utility: Embattled utility giant Pacific Gas and Electric won approval to take out $5.5 billion in loans at a bankruptcy hearing Wednesday, despite objections that a default would give big banks control over PG&E's assets to the detriment of wildfire victims and other claimants.

PG&E, JPMorgan's $5B Bankruptcy Deal OK'd Over Protests - Law360

PG&E, JPMorgan's $5B Bankruptcy Deal OK'd Over Protests - Law360: A California bankruptcy judge on Wednesday approved JP Morgan Chase Bank NA and other banks' revised $5.5 billion debtor-in-possession loan to Pacific Gas and Electric over objections from fire victims who argued PG&E's counsel refused to negotiate with them.

Pimco, Other PG&E Creditors Said to Pitch $35 Billion Exit Plan - Bloomberg

Pimco, Other PG&E Creditors Said to Pitch $35 Billion Exit Plan - Bloomberg: Some of the biggest players in distressed debt are proposing a $35 billion plan that would allow California utility giant PG&E Corp. to emerge from bankruptcy within a year, according to people familiar with the matter.

PG&E creditors propose $35 billion exit plan: Bloomberg | Reuters

PG&E creditors propose $35 billion exit plan: Bloomberg | Reuters: Some creditors of PG&E Corp, including Elliott Management Corp and Pacific Investment Management Co (Pimco), are proposing a $35 billion plan for the California power utility to exit bankruptcy within a year, Bloomberg reported late on Wednesday.

PG&E Bankruptcy Should Not Impact Diablo Canyon Decommissioning: NRC - ExchangeMonitor

PG&E Bankruptcy Should Not Impact Diablo Canyon Decommissioning: NRC - ExchangeMonitor: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

Governor Blasts PG&E, Says Utility Is Focused on 'Quick Profits' Over Safety | The California Report | KQED News

Governor Blasts PG&E, Says Utility Is Focused on 'Quick Profits' Over Safety | The California Report | KQED News: Newsom responds to speculation that board is about to add 'hedge-fund financiers and out-of-state executives' who have little knowledge of California or ut

CA Gov. Gavin Newsom criticizes PG&E over leadership | The Sacramento Bee

CA Gov. Gavin Newsom criticizes PG&E over leadership | The Sacramento Bee

‘Man, that is a lot of money’: Why PG&E spent at least $84 million on lawyers - SFChronicle.com

‘Man, that is a lot of money’: Why PG&E spent at least $84 million on lawyers - SFChronicle.com: PG&E’s pre-bankruptcy spending on lawyers equates to more than $15 per electric customer. But it pales in comparison to the utility’s potential $30 billion in wildfire liability and its revenue last year of $16.76 billion.

PG&E lands $5.5 billion in funds to keep operating during wildfire-linked bankruptcy


PG&E lands $5.5 billion in funds to keep operating during wildfire-linked bankruptcy



https://napavalleyregister.com/business/national-and-international/pg-e-lands-billion-in-funds-to-keep-operating-during/article_307dcda9-e7c5-54d8-bb56-2271fe40aec5.html

With Pilgrim Nuclear Plant Set To Retire, There Are Questions About Decommissioning Trust Fund | EarthWhile

With Pilgrim Nuclear Plant Set To Retire, There Are Questions About Decommissioning Trust Fund | EarthWhile: The plant in Plymouth will shut down in less than two months, but big questions remain about its decommissioning trust fund -- a sort of 401(k) for retired nuclear plants.

Poll: Public is split on whether state should act to prop up nuclear industry | StateImpact Pennsylvania

Poll: Public is split on whether state should act to prop up nuclear industry | StateImpact Pennsylvania

Poll: Pennsylvania voters strongly support nuclear energy as Legislature debates bailout | Pennsylvania Capital-Star

Poll: Pennsylvania voters strongly support nuclear energy as Legislature debates bailout | Pennsylvania Capital-Star

Franklin & Marshall poll explores Pennsylvanians' views on nuclear power, legalizing marijuana and more

Franklin & Marshall poll explores Pennsylvanians' views on nuclear power, legalizing marijuana and more

Poll: Public is split on whether state should act to prop up nuclear industry | News | witf.org

Poll: Public is split on whether state should act to prop up nuclear industry | News | witf.org: A new poll found Pennsylvania voters generally support nuclear energy, but on the question of whether the state should prop up struggling plants, that support is mixed. The poll was conducted by Franklin & Marshall in partnership with PA Post.

Letters: Nuclear power deserves a fair hearing - The Boston Globe

Letters: Nuclear power deserves a fair hearing - The Boston Globe: “The efficacy and safety of nuclear power is constantly understated, misrepresented, and sometimes just undiscussed.”

CEOs Say Preserving the Nuclear Power Fleet Is Imperative

CEOs Say Preserving the Nuclear Power Fleet Is Imperative

U.S. Department of Energy Further Advances Nuclear Energy Technology through Industry Awards of $19 Million | Department of Energy

U.S. Department of Energy Further Advances Nuclear Energy Technology through Industry Awards of $19 Million | Department of Energy: U.S. Department of Energy Further Advances Nuclear Energy Technology through Industry Awards of $19 Million

Photo archive: Scenes from the Three Mile Island nuclear plant accident, 40 years ago | Trending | newsadvance.com

Photo archive: Scenes from the Three Mile Island nuclear plant accident, 40 years ago | Trending | newsadvance.com: On March 28, 1979, the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant south of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, suffered a partial meltdown that instilled fear in hundreds of thousands of nearby residents and

Bipartisan Senators Move to Cement Nuclear Power’s Future

Bipartisan Senators Move to Cement Nuclear Power’s Future

Readers React: Nuclear power the best alternative to fossil fuels - The Morning Call

Readers React: Nuclear power the best alternative to fossil fuels - The Morning Call: Nuclear power the best alternative to fossil fuels

DOE Approves Sale of Nuclear Technology to Saudi Arabia

DOE Approves Sale of Nuclear Technology to Saudi Arabia

Trump administration approves secret Saudi nuclear power agreement | The Independent

Trump administration approves secret Saudi nuclear power agreement | The Independent

Report: US approves sale of nuclear power technology to Saudi Arabia | The Times of Israel

Report: US approves sale of nuclear power technology to Saudi Arabia | The Times of Israel: Reuters says US Energy Secretary Rick Perry has allowed companies to sell know-how to the desert kingdom as part of a hoped-for broader deal

US approves secret nuclear power work for Saudi Arabia | USA News | Al Jazeera

US approves secret nuclear power work for Saudi Arabia | USA News | Al Jazeera: The US administration has reportedly authorized US companies to sell nuclear power technology to Saudi Arabia.

Alongside Gov. Ritter, AEE Emphasizes Economic Benefits of Advanced Energy to Nevada Lawmakers | The Energy Collective Daily

Alongside Gov. Ritter, AEE Emphasizes Economic Benefits of Advanced Energy to Nevada Lawmakers | The Energy Collective Daily

Link to The Energy Collective Network

Rewriting history: An assault on history and our common past

Rewriting history: An assault on history and our common past: Even George Washington is on the list for erasure from our history. Our schools are failing to teach the most basic history and civic lessons.

Hawks Clamoring to Attack Iran – LobeLog

Hawks Clamoring to Attack Iran – LobeLog: by Emile Nakhleh As Vice President Mike Pence, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, National Security Advisor John Bolton, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Saudi crown prince and de facto …

Urgent Prayer Request: Priest Kidnapped in Nigeria | Deacon Greg Kandra

Urgent Prayer Request: Priest Kidnapped in Nigeria | Deacon Greg Kandra: Details:  Yet another kidnapping of a Catholic priest in Nigeria. According to Fides News Agency, Fr. John Bako Shekwolo was kidnapped on March 25 in his home in the village of Ankuwai, in the state of Kaduna, in central – northern Nigeria. The kidnapping was confirmed by the Chancellor, Archdiocese of Kaduna,

Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Bankruptcy watchdog comes out against PG&E's proposed bonus plan | Reuters

Bankruptcy watchdog comes out against PG&E's proposed bonus plan | Reuters: The U.S. government's bankruptcy watchdog on Tuesday objected to a bonus plan PG&E Corp has proposed for some 10,000 of its employees, saying it has concerns about the pricetag, which could reach $350 million, and whether the plan excludes company insiders.

PG&E Proposed Bankruptcy Bonus Should Be Denied: U.S. Trustee

PG&E Proposed Bankruptcy Bonus Should Be Denied: U.S. Trustee: The utility has not provided enough details to verify that no insiders will benefit from a 2019 bonus pool whose payouts could be as much as $350 million, the U.S. Trustee said in an objection filed March 26.

PG&E gets $5.5B in funds to keep operating during bankruptcy - PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha

PG&E gets $5.5B in funds to keep operating during bankruptcy - PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha: PG&E ([[PCG]] -2.2%) wins court approval for $5.5B in financing to keep operating during its wildfire-linked bankruptcy case, a funding package the utility

U.S. judge approves bankruptcy loan for California power producer PG&E | Reuters

U.S. judge approves bankruptcy loan for California power producer PG&E | Reuters: Bankrupt California power provider PG&E Corp won court approval on Wednesday for a $5.5 billion loan to help maintain electricity and natural gas delivery and for investments to reduce the risk of wildfires as it reorganizes.

PG&E lands $5.5 billion in funds to keep operating during wildfire-linked bankruptcy


PG&E lands $5.5 billion in funds to keep operating during wildfire-linked bankruptcy

PG&E gains $5.5 billion in financing to keep lights on, heat flowing while bankruptcy case crawls ahead


https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/03/27/pge-lands-5-5-billion-in-funds-to-keep-operating-during-wildfire-linked-bankruptcy/

GE likely to further break up the struggling power business, RBC says

GE likely to further break up the struggling power business, RBC says: General Electric reorganized its struggling power business as one of Larry Culp's first moves as CEO, but RBC believes the changes have only just begun.

Federal Price Tag on Rad Waste Liability Hits $8 Billion


Federal Price Tag on Rad Waste Liability Hits $8 Billion


https://www.exchangemonitor.com/federal-price-tag-rad-waste-liability-hits-8b-perry-says/?printmode=1

California PUC Issues Decision on Pacific Gas & Electric | Energy Central

California PUC Issues Decision on Pacific Gas & Electric | Energy Central

December construction start for Chinese SMR - World Nuclear News

December construction start for Chinese SMR - World Nuclear News: China's Ministry of Environment is proceeding with the environmental impact assessment for a project to build an ACP100 small modular reactor at Changjiang, Hainan, with construction to begin by the end of this year.

Novovoronezh II-2 nears physical start-up - World Nuclear News

Novovoronezh II-2 nears physical start-up - World Nuclear News: Unit 2 of the Novovoronezh II nuclear power plant in southwest Russia has been brought to minimum controlled power level, Rosenergoatom, the operator subsidiary of state nuclear corporation Rosatom, announced today.

Nevada tribes join opposition to plutonium shipments | Las Vegas Review-Journal

Nevada tribes join opposition to plutonium shipments | Las Vegas Review-Journal: Leaders of 13 Nevada Indian tribes sent letters to President Donald Trump and Energy Secretary Rick Perry objecting to the transfer of the radioactive material to the Nevada National Security Site.

Nuclear waste site in Lewiston to be cleaned, but not soon

Nuclear waste site in Lewiston to be cleaned, but not soon

Nuclear Regulatory Commission Gives Pilgrim Its Final Annual Assessment | WCAI

Nuclear Regulatory Commission Gives Pilgrim Its Final Annual Assessment | WCAI: The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission says Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station has been improving its safety since 2016, but the official reclassification

Hanford Site 2020 proposed budget cuts gets criticized | Tri-City Herald

Hanford Site 2020 proposed budget cuts gets criticized | Tri-City Herald: The Hanford, WA, nuclear reservation’s 2020 budget proposed by the Trump administration cuts $416 million. It’s being criticized for not increasing environmental, radioactive waste cleanup at aging facilities.

Perry defends plan for Nevada nuclear-waste storage site

Perry defends plan for Nevada nuclear-waste storage site: WASHINGTON (AP) — Energy Secretary Rick Perry on Tuesday defended the Trump administration's plans to collect and store nuclear waste from around the country in a site northwest of Las Vegas,...

IEA demands increase in clean energy as emissions hit record high - World Nuclear News

IEA demands increase in clean energy as emissions hit record high - World Nuclear News: As a result of higher energy consumption, CO2 emissions rose 1.7% last year and hit a new record, according to the latest data from the International Energy Agency. The Paris-based agency's Global Energy & CO2 Status Report, released today, shows that the global energy system emitted 33 billion tonnes of CO2 in 2018.

Bruce Power harvests first HSA cobalt-60 - World Nuclear News

Bruce Power harvests first HSA cobalt-60 - World Nuclear News: Bruce Power has completed its first harvest of medical-grade cobalt-60 produced inside the Bruce 7 nuclear power reactor.

Canadian nuclear projects bring economic benefits - World Nuclear News

Canadian nuclear projects bring economic benefits - World Nuclear News: The 13-year Major Component Replacement project being undertaken as part of Bruce Power's life-extension programme will inject billions of dollars into Ontario's economy, a new report has found. Meanwhile, the major project to refurbish Darlington unit 2 remains on track for completion in 2020, Ontario Power Generation has announced.

Xi and Macron discuss reprocessing project - World Nuclear News

Xi and Macron discuss reprocessing project - World Nuclear News: Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed common goals for nuclear power and the fight against climate change in bilateral talks held on 25 March during Xi's three-day state visit to France. Macron's statement specifically mentioned the long-awaited project for cooperation to build a plant to reprocess China's used nuclear fuel.

Nuclear Energy Institute Seizes on Climate Momentum to Push for Policy Boost | Greentech Media

Nuclear Energy Institute Seizes on Climate Momentum to Push for Policy Boost | Greentech Media

UAE regulator in final stages of issuing license for nuclear plant | Reuters

UAE regulator in final stages of issuing license for nuclear plant | Reuters: The United Arab Emirates' regulator is in the final stages of issuing a license to the operator of the Barakah nuclear power plant now being built but cannot yet give a date for when it will be granted, a senior official said on Wednesday.

How prepared are Minnesota's nuclear plants for a flood? | Local | winonadailynews.com

How prepared are Minnesota's nuclear plants for a flood? | Local | winonadailynews.com: COLLEGEVILLE, Minn. — River levels are rising around Minnesota, along with worries about flooding that could damage homes and businesses.

US nuclear power less costly, more productive, but assistance needed: NEI head | S&P Global Platts

US nuclear power less costly, more productive, but assistance needed: NEI head | S&P Global Platts: The US nuclear power fleet produced more electricity in 2018 than ever before and its generation costs have declined significantly in recent years, but action must be taken to ensure more plants are n

40 years after Three Mile Island accident, debate over safety of nuclear energy still goes back and forth | News | witf.org

40 years after Three Mile Island accident, debate over safety of nuclear energy still goes back and forth | News | witf.org: Arnold Gundersen was a lead nuclear engineer in 1979 when the partial meltdown at Three Mile Island sent a tide of fear and panic across central Pennsylvania.

A Look At Nuclear Power And The Uranium Sector | Seeking Alpha

A Look At Nuclear Power And The Uranium Sector | Seeking Alpha: Nuclear Power - The case for and against. A look at the uranium sector. Uranium prices are up almost 50% over the past 9 months. A look at demand versus supply

40 Years After Three Mile Island, Americans Split on Nuclear Power

40 Years After Three Mile Island, Americans Split on Nuclear Power



https://news.gallup.com/poll/248048/years-three-mile-island-americans-split-nuclear-power.aspx?g_source=link_NEWSV9&g_medium=TOPIC&g_campaign=item_&g_content=40%2520Years%2520After%2520Three%2520Mile%2520Island%2C%2520Americans%2520Split%2520on%2520Nuclear%2520Power

We can address climate change without fear mongering - The Post Millennial

We can address climate change without fear mongering - The Post Millennial: I suggest a new rule for any discussion we have about climate change.  The rule is simple: from now on,

Nuclear energy facts and information

Nuclear energy facts and information

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire March 27, 2019

ANS Nuclear Policy Wire
March 27, 2019

DOE FY 2020 Budget Justification & NELA Reintroduction

The Department of Energy (DOE) released another round of documents detailing the FY 2020 Budget Justification for Energy and Water Development Appropriations. A more in depth look can be found HERE.
 
Energy Secretary Rick Perry also testified on the budget before the House Appropriations Committee's Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and related Agencies. You can view the hearing HERE. One of Secretary Perry's next stops regarding the DOE's budget request will be before the Senate Energy Committee on April 2.
 
Additionally, Senate Energy also introduced the Nuclear Energy Leadership Act (NELA) on the Senate floor today. The bill has 14 cosponsors in the Senate with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) leading the charge.

ADVANCED NUCLEAR ADVOCATES APPLAUD SENATE NELA INTRO

ADVANCED NUCLEAR ADVOCATES APPLAUD
SENATE NELA INTRO

A coalition of nine advanced nuclear advocates today applauded introduction of the bipartisan Nuclear Energy Leadership Act as an important step in creating a comprehensive blueprint for bolstering the next-generation of the nation’s largest source of reliable and carbon-free power.



S.3422 - Nuclear Energy Leadership Act
https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/3422/text?format=txt
Full Text: https://www.congress.gov/115/bills/s3422/BILLS-115s3422is.pdf

Led by Senate Energy and Natural Resources Chairman Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), as well as more than a dozen other cosponsors, NELA addresses the lack of aggressive yet achievable milestones for U.S.-led advanced reactor technologies and of an overall long-term strategy for the direction of U.S. nuclear science and engineering research and development.

“NELA is a broad and bold step toward developing the federal goals and public-private partnerships necessary to cross valley of death that often stops groundbreaking nuclear innovation from winning in the marketplace,” ClearPath Action Executive Director Rich Powell said. “It’s also another great example of the bipartisan support on Capitol Hill for reducing carbon emissions and forging ahead with the next-generation of clean and reliable nuclear technologies that China, Russia and others are trying to corner the global market on.”

“The world needs advanced nuclear to help aggressively reduce carbon emissions,” said Third Way Senior Vice President for Clean Energy Josh Freed. “There are enormous economic, safety, and security benefits if those reactors are developed by American innovators and American companies. This imperative has helped drive bipartisan cooperation across two Administrations and through multiple Congresses to support the development and commercialization of clean, advanced nuclear power. The next step is NELA, which will establish clear milestones for American companies and the federal government to work together to meet, and provide collaborators a strategy to get there.”

“The NELA action plan and the definitive steps it lays out are essential to our efforts to decarbonize the U.S. economy and meet our mid-century emission reduction goals,” Center for Climate and Energy Solutions President Bob Perciasepe said. “The transition to a low-carbon economy is far more achievable when advanced and existing carbon-free nuclear are included in our mix of power generation.”

“We must reduce carbon dioxide emissions to zero as soon as possible, and having a lower cost nuclear energy option will greatly enhance our chance of success,” remarked Clean Air Task Force’s Executive Director Armond Cohen.  “This legislation would provide important strategic direction, infrastructure, and commercial pilot opportunities to help us realize that option."

“Nuclear power is an important piece of the all-of-the-above response to climate change. As policymakers look for economical ways to curb greenhouse gas emissions while growing our economy, next generation nuclear must be part of the solution,” said Drew Bond, Director of Energy Innovation for the American Council on Capital Formation. “The NELA legislation introduced today by Sens. Murkowski and Booker supports America’s development of next generation nuclear reactors that are economically scalable, safe and sustainable. In addition to supporting American-made clean energy innovation, this bill supports the United States’ having a global leadership position in civil nuclear energy while at the same time defending against nuclear proliferation.”

“The U.S. has long been a leader in nuclear energy technology, and the Nuclear Energy Leadership Act (NELA) is key to continuing this global leadership and providing long-term energy security,” says BPC Action Executive Director Michele Stockwell. “BPC Action applauds Sens. Murkowski (R-AK) and Booker (D-NJ) for their work on this crucial bipartisan legislation.”

“NELA opens the door for nuclear to compete with other types of energy generation, and offers significant progress towards strengthening our domestic nuclear capabilities and overall market competitiveness,” said Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions (CRES) Executive Director Heather Reams. “Nuclear energy supplies 20% of the electricity in the United States, with zero emissions. We know nuclear has great promise for lowering emissions, but its full potential will not be reached without more collaboration between the federal government and the private sector. NELA is a great step towards modernizing the U.S. nuclear energy policy and maintaining our position as a global leaders in this space.”

“Nuclear energy is a vital element in helping the world to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, and U.S. leadership in the field serves U.S. economic, environmental, and security interests,” said Dr. Ashley Finan, Executive Director of the Nuclear Innovation Alliance. “The Nuclear Energy Leadership Act takes important steps towards revitalizing our nuclear R&D program and launching the demonstration and deployment of the next generation of U.S. nuclear energy technologies.”

American Nuclear Society President John Kelly said: "ANS applauds all Senators behind the introduction of the Nuclear Energy Leadership Act. NELA is an important step forward in supporting development of the U.S. advanced reactor technology portfolio and the nuclear engineering workforce. The Society is pleased to support this legislation as advanced reactors play a crucial role in the long-term production of clean, reliable energy.”
NELA would direct the Department of Energy to establish specific goals to align the federal government, national labs and private sector in efforts to accelerate advanced nuclear technologies. It would also require DOE’s Office of Nuclear Energy to develop a 10-year strategic plan that supports advanced nuclear R&D goals.

NELA addresses the lack of domestic supply of high-assay low-enriched uranium (HA-LEU), which will be needed to fuel most advanced reactors being designed, by establishing a program to provide a minimum amount of HA-LEU to U.S. advanced reactor developers from DOE sources until a new long-term supply is developed.

Advanced fuels and materials will also need a reliable testing ground. NELA directs DOE to construct a fast neutron research facility that will be used to test reactor components and demonstrate their safe and reliable operation, as well as fulfill other national research and development needs. Currently, the only machines capable of producing an adequate fast neutron spectrum are located in Russia and China.

The bill also initiates a power purchase agreement pilot program between the DOE and utilities to procure nuclear power, and provides a technology-neutral extension of power purchasing authority for the federal government, from the current 10 years out to 40 years. The final portion of the bill reauthorizes nuclear engineering scholarships to maintain a robust pipeline of nuclear engineering talent.

Darren Goode
Communications Director
ClearPath Action
goode@clearpathaction.org
www.clearpathaction.org
202.550.6619

A County In New York Has Completely BANNED All Unvaccinated Children From ALL Public Places – End Of The American Dream

A County In New York Has Completely BANNED All Unvaccinated Children From ALL Public Places – End Of The American Dream: One county in New York is taking extremely drastic measures in an attempt to force all children to get vaccinated for measles. Starting on Wednesday, any child

Brian Hook Is Trump’s Point Man on Iran—and Under Investigation

Brian Hook Is Trump’s Point Man on Iran—and Under Investigation: Brian Hook is driving an aggressive Iran policy... while he and several other officials have to deal with a far-reaching probe into allegations of political reprisal.

Tuesday, March 26, 2019

PG&E’s bankruptcy may cause clean energy projects to tank

PG&E’s bankruptcy may cause clean energy projects to tank: Bankruptcy proceedings may determine that PG&E can reject contracts already signed, including agreements for dozens of clean energy projects.

Bankrupt PG&E, victims of 2015 wildfire fight over fire prevention funding | Reuters

Bankrupt PG&E, victims of 2015 wildfire fight over fire prevention funding | Reuters: PG&E Corp on Sunday sought court approval to go on funding a fire prevention program that began last year for a California county over objections by victims from a 2015 wildfire who want the bankrupt power producer to free up cash for paying settlements with them.

PG&E's proposed bankruptcy bonus should be denied, U.S. Trustee says - PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha

PG&E's proposed bankruptcy bonus should be denied, U.S. Trustee says - PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha: PG&E ([[PCG]] -1.3%) has not provided enough details to verify that no insiders will benefit from a 2019 bonus pool whose payouts could total as much as $3

PG&E's proposed bankruptcy bonus should be denied, U.S. Trustee says - PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha

PG&E's proposed bankruptcy bonus should be denied, U.S. Trustee says - PG&E Corporation (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha: PG&E ([[PCG]] -1.3%) has not provided enough details to verify that no insiders will benefit from a 2019 bonus pool whose payouts could total as much as $3

Wildfire Victims Continue Challenge to PG&E Bankruptcy Financing - WSJ

Wildfire Victims Continue Challenge to PG&E Bankruptcy Financing - WSJ: PG&E has failed to persuade victims of wildfires sparked by its equipment to go along with a $5.5 billion loan, terms of which allow Wall Street banks to start dismantling the company if things go seriously wrong in bankruptcy court.

PG&E bonus plan in wildfire-linked bankruptcy case draws objections from U.S. trustee

PG&E bonus plan in wildfire-linked bankruptcy case draws objections from U.S. trustee

PG&E wants to pay 10,000 employees $235 million in 2019 bonuses despite company claims that it’s bankrupt



https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/03/26/pge-bonus-plan-in-wildfire-linked-bankruptcy-case-draws-objections-from-u-s-trustee/

California utilities are embracing technology to stop fires. Is it enough? | Energy Central

California utilities are embracing technology to stop fires. Is it enough? | Energy Central

Policy Choices for a 2050 Zero-carbon Europe | The Energy Collective Daily

Policy Choices for a 2050 Zero-carbon Europe | The Energy Collective Daily

Link to The Energy Collective Network

POWER Notebook: First Order for Novel Gas Turbine; Three Mile Island Accident Turns 40; PG&E Pushes Back on Judge’s Proposal

POWER Notebook: First Order for Novel Gas Turbine; Three Mile Island Accident Turns 40; PG&E Pushes Back on Judge’s Proposal: Siemens, Three Mile Island, and PG&E made notable headlines over recent days. The news is featured in this week’s POWER notebook.

America's Nuclear Export Controls are Fundamentally Flawed | The National Interest

America's Nuclear Export Controls are Fundamentally Flawed | The National Interest: Washington must identify countries or regions that ought to not receive significant nuclear goods or technology, starting with the Middle East.

Texas Set to Approve Continued Storage of Problem Los Alamos Waste at WCS - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1

Texas Set to Approve Continued Storage of Problem Los Alamos Waste at WCS - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

US NRC proposes fine, cites violations for San Onofre cask incident | S&P Global Platts

US NRC proposes fine, cites violations for San Onofre cask incident | S&P Global Platts: The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission Monday proposed a $116,000 fine and determined two violations occurred in connection with an August 3 incident at California Edison's San Onofre plant.

Utility Fined $116K for Near-Drop of Nuclear Canister

Utility Fined $116K for Near-Drop of Nuclear Canister: Southern California Edison, operator of the now-shuttered San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, did not come away unscathed from an 2018 incident when workers nearly dropped a stainless steel canister containing nuclear waste 18 feet: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission recommended over $100,000 in penalties Monday for the safety breach.