Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Saturday, November 23, 2019

Santa’s Gift to the Democrats — Will They Break It While Opening It?


Santa’s Gift to the Democrats — Will They Break It While Opening It?


https://www.insidesources.com/santas-gift-to-the-democrats-will-they-break-it-while-opening-it/?utm_source=Llewellyn+King+Column+Mailing+List&utm_campaign=4e48a6da4a-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2018_01_25_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_ef8bd218a2-4e48a6da4a-333577617

China’s nuclear power company plans $2.5bn renewables investment in Inner Mongolia - News - GCR

China’s nuclear power company plans $2.5bn renewables investment in Inner Mongolia - News - GCR

Is Nuclear Power a Solution for Climate Change? > ENGINEERING.com

Is Nuclear Power a Solution for Climate Change? > ENGINEERING.com: While it may have a bad reputation, the engineering behind fission power is solid.

US Engaged in Building Poland’s First Nuclear Power Plant

US Engaged in Building Poland’s First Nuclear Power Plant: During the U.S.-Polish Nuclear Industry Forum held on Nov. 18 in Poland, Poland’s government commissioner for strategic energy ...

Hydrogen stimulus package to power Australian energy exports | The Energy Collective Daily

Hydrogen stimulus package to power Australian energy exports | The Energy Collective Daily

Link to The Energy Collective Network

Air Pollution: An Unclear and Present Danger - Scientific American

Air Pollution: An Unclear and Present Danger - Scientific American: A weekly exploration of the latest developments in science and technology.

Putin Calls U.S. Shale “Barbaric” | OilPrice.com

Putin Calls U.S. Shale “Barbaric” | OilPrice.com: Russian President Vladimir Putin has some harsh words for the United States, suggesting that U.S. drillers are not acting responsibly

Forget OPEC: China Now Moves the Oil Market | RealClearEnergy

Forget OPEC: China Now Moves the Oil Market | RealClearEnergy: Forget OPEC: China Now Moves the Oil Market | RealClearEnergy

Does Nuclear Power Slow or Speed Climate Change? | RealClearEnergy

Does Nuclear Power Slow or Speed Climate Change? | RealClearEnergy: Does Nuclear Power Slow or Speed Climate Change? | RealClearEnergy

Is Big Oil Wasting Its Time in the US Shale Patch? | RealClearEnergy

Is Big Oil Wasting Its Time in the US Shale Patch? | RealClearEnergy: Is Big Oil Wasting Its Time in the US Shale Patch? | RealClearEnergy

Fossil Fuel Output on Track for Double the Climate Limit | RealClearEnergy

Fossil Fuel Output on Track for Double the Climate Limit | RealClearEnergy: Fossil Fuel Output on Track for Double the Climate Limit | RealClearEnergy

Climate Change Could Shave Off 3% of the World Economy | RealClearEnergy

Climate Change Could Shave Off 3% of the World Economy | RealClearEnergy: Climate Change Could Shave Off 3% of the World Economy | RealClearEnergy

Nuclear agency urges Iran to explain uranium particles at undeclared site

Nuclear agency urges Iran to explain uranium particles at undeclared site: Vienna (AFP) Nov 21, 2019 - The UN nuclear watchdog on Thursday urged Iran to explain the presence of uranium particles at an undeclared site, as a landmark deal aimed at curbing Tehran's atomic activities threatens to collapse.

Leningrad 2-1 Returns To Service After First Preventive Maintenance :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency

Leningrad 2-1 Returns To Service After First Preventive Maintenance :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency: The Leningrad 2-1 nuclear power plant in western Russia has been reconnected to the grid and is operating at 100% capacity after a period of preventive maintenance, state nuclear corporation Rosatom said.



The scheduled maintenance was the first since the Generation III+ VVER V-491 pressurised water reactor unit began commercial operation in October 2018.



Rosatom said work included assessments of various key components and the reactor core.

Strategically Harnessing the Full Potential of Research Reactors | IAEA

Strategically Harnessing the Full Potential of Research Reactors | IAEA: Research reactors have the power to influence science, education, industry and medicine, but tapping into their full potential takes strategic planning.

Gov. Cuomo’s Self-Inflicted Natural Gas Shortage Coming to a Head | Energy Central

Gov. Cuomo’s Self-Inflicted Natural Gas Shortage Coming to a Head | Energy Central

Diablo Canyon is a symptom of California's dangerous over-dependency on natural gas by Gene Nelson

Since 2016, I've been becoming an expert on California's energy systems. I have learned the state is dangerously overdependent on natural gas. The San Bruno PG&E natural gas pipeline explosion which killed 8 on September 9, 2010 should have prompted a re-examination of the state's over-dependency on natural gas. I'm going to summarize the roughly 2,000 pages of CPUC Intervenor Californians for Green Nuclear Power, Inc.'s (CGNP's) written testimony, workpapers, and oral hearing transcripts in the next few paragraphs. I request you forward this email to your Washington Post reporter contact.

1. California's large investor-owned utilities made sure the over-dependence story was not covered by any in-state media. The two big natural gas suppliers are Sempra (whose service territory covers southern California (including San Luis Obispo) and Pacific Gas & Electric. Both huge firms exert tremendous political power in California

2. I believe Sempra, which is a 20% owner of San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS) had a role in the decision to decommission SONGS after January, 2012. The issue was the plant's owners  mismanaged a routine service operation (replacement of the SONGS steam generators.) I believe SONGS was shut down to expand the market for natural gas, since SONGS was generating more than five times the annual output of Hoover Dam in 2011. PG&E's Diablo Canyon Power Plant (DCPP) produces the same amount of power.  (There is still an open criminal investigation regarding SONGS.)

3. Southern California's aging (mostly 60 plus years old) natural gas bulk transmission and storage system began to show signs of stress after SONGS went off line. Sempra had to compensate for the loss of SONGS by making more aggressive use of their Aliso Canyon Storage Field. (ACSF )You may recall that disaster near Porter Ranch that began in October, 2015 and ended in February, 2016. It was the world's biggest methane leak from a natural gas distribution and storage system to date.

4. There is plenty of evidence the plan to shut down DCPP in 2025 would serve to expand PG&E's natural gas business, much like occurred for Sempra after SONGS  went off line. It might also expand the use of out-of state coal-fired generation. A Berkshire Hathaway Energy Company, PacifiCorp has been pushing for an expansion of imported coal power since at least 2005. (Did  you know that Los Angeles is dependent on the huge Intermountain coal-fired power plant in Delta Utah?)

5. While CGNP was critically examining  the adverse consequences of PG&E's Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) policy, we learned of a 5-day long power outage in San Diego County, California in the middle of October, 2019. San Diego County's electricity is supplied by a Sempra subsidiary, San Diego Gas & Electric. (SDG&E) Sempra turned off enough natural-gas-fired electricity generation to more than equal Hoover Dam  They had to turn off these generators because they needed to repair a portion of their natural gas bulk transmission system. There has been no news reporting regarding this huge outage. Instead, reporters have focused on PG&E's PSPS policy. You may read additional details about the problems with Sempra's aging and stressed natural gas transmission system in the attached July 11, 2019 story in The Los Angeles Times.

6. California has the greatest amount of solar (12,000 MW) and wind (6,000 MW) of any state. As a consequence of their intermittency, solar and wind generation are not benefiting the environment . In fact, CGNP has uncovered evidence that electric power sector emissions have been increasing This is great news if you are a wholesaler of natural gas like Sempra or PG&E. However, it is bad news for the environment and California ratepayers. An introduction to the problem is found in the attached August 11, 2016 Washington Post story.

7. While CGNP's investigations by a technical team that includes four Ph.D.s whose degrees relate to nuclear power production are very high quality, there has been scant media coverage regarding what we have uncovered. Our legal team is headed by former four-term California Assemblyman, Attorney Mike Gatto. Attorney Gatto chaired the powerful  Energy and Utilities Committee for one of his terms. We attempted to raise some of our points we uncovered with the CPUC to the State Court of Appeal. However, due to a quirk in California law, such review is discretionary, not mandatory. The Appeals Court declined to take our case. CGNP learned about PG&E being under criminal probation after the San Bruno Natural Gas Pipeline explosion. We have sent considerable amounts of CGNP's CPUC testimony to the Federal Monitor in that case. Federal Judge William H. Alsup is very interested in PG&E's ethical violations and PG&E's actions that harm California public safety. We have not yet been asked to provide oral testimony by Judge Alsup.

8. The vulnerabilities of California's aging natural gas distribution and storage system will become far worse as a consequence of plate tectonics. When a large earthquake occurs on the southern portion of the San Andreas Fault, Sempra's (and PG&E's) natural gas transmission system will suffer serious damage that will likely require months to repair.. The resulting humanitarian crisis could imperil the lives of millions in southern California. CGNP is working with the California State Seismic Safety Commission (CSSC) and Dr. Lucy Jones ("The Earthquake Lady") to publicize the public safety value of keeping DCPP on line and re-commissioning SONGS. These nuclear power stations operate independent of the state's aging and vulnerable natural gas distribution and storage system. Both plants are seismically rugged. They cold supply life-sustaining electric power. Some of that power could be used to desalinate seawater. I've attached CGNP's recent letter to Dr. Lucy Jones.

With this outline, I hope you have a better understanding of the huge dimensions of this story. Since The Washington Post is not under the control of Sempra or PG&E, they have much more freedom to report this story. I have plenty of information to back up my claims.  I look forward to your feedback and questions.

Gene Nelson, Ph.D.  Legal Assistant, Californians for Green Nuclear Power, Inc.  (805) 363 - 4697   Home email address: c0030180@airmail.net.

Grid reliability under climate change may require more power generation capacity: Importance of factoring climate-water impacts into electric grid planning -- ScienceDaily

Grid reliability under climate change may require more power generation capacity: Importance of factoring climate-water impacts into electric grid planning -- ScienceDaily: Researchers applied a new modeling approach for long-term planning of the U.S. power grid under future climate and water resource conditions. The new approach shows the grid may need an additional 5.3% to 12% of power-generating capacity to meet demand and reliability requirements. The changes would lower water use and carbon emissions, potentially helping mitigate future climate changes.

Ukraine imports nuclear fuel worth US$259.13 mln in Jan-Sept - news economics | UNIAN

Ukraine imports nuclear fuel worth US$259.13 mln in Jan-Sept - news economics | UNIAN: Ukraine in January-September 2019 imported fuel assemblies totaling US$259.13 million for its nuclear power plants. Russia was the major supplier of nuclear fuel to Ukraine.

We Must Rebuild American Uranium, Rare Earths Infrastructure « Breaking Defense - Defense industry news, analysis and commentary

We Must Rebuild American Uranium, Rare Earths Infrastructure « Breaking Defense - Defense industry news, analysis and commentary: Rare earths are 17 chemical elements used in military equipment as varied as missile guidance systems to  lasers. China controls much of the world’s rare earth production, which has made them a concern of the Pentagon and the White House. Uranium is another critical military material largely controlled today by foreign sources. What should be done? Read on! The Editor. One way China and Russia are successfully undermining American leadership is by flooding the global market with state-subsided rare earths, including the nuclear materials that power critical American aircraft carriers and submarines. Immediate, direct federal purchases of uranium is one key way that we can counter the malign influence of China and Russia by securing the U.S. nuclear supply chain for national security. Utilizing his newly-created Nuclear Fuel Working Group, President Trump can strengthen America’s position in the world and restore a finite and diminishing American uranium supply with direct federal uranium purchases. China has made production of rare earths a strategic priority. Roughly 80 percent of the rare earths imported by the U.S. come from China. Just 30 years ago, the U.S. was the world’s l

How to advance nuclear energy in the US

How to advance nuclear energy in the US: America is still a powerhouse in nuclear innovation, and it's time to show the rest of the world.

Can Our Global Energy Industry Weather Extreme Weather?

Can Our Global Energy Industry Weather Extreme Weather?: A new study on the double challenge that the global energy sector faces in the next 30 years - fundamentally transformed into a low-carbon energy supply system in response to climate change and adapt systems to climate change and its effects. Oh…and eradicate global poverty, too.

Bill Gates Says Axed Nuclear Reactor in China Is Trade War Warning | Fortune

Bill Gates Says Axed Nuclear Reactor in China Is Trade War Warning | Fortune: When Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill Gates tried to build an experimental nuclear reactor in China, his plan was thwarted by U.S. foreign investment restrictions. At Bloomberg’s New Economy Forum this week, Gates described the scuttled reactor project as “a five-year setback for technology.” A chorus of industry leaders, economists and researchers echoed Gates’ cautionary tale […]

Four Theories of Modern China Charles Edel

  Four Theories of Modern China
What really drives China today—is it Xi Jinping himself, the Belt & Road Initiative, old habits of statecraft, or the regime’s authoritarian nature? Four recent books help us sort through the morass.

https://www.the-american-interest.com/2019/11/21/four-theories-of-modern-china/?utm-access=newsletter&utm_source=TAI+Today&utm_campaign=d0cb29667b-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_07_26_05_56_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_6322a81c35-d0cb29667b-178768957&mc_cid=d0cb29667b&mc_eid=9a3d7bbf97

Romania's Anti-Corruption Progress - The Globalist

Romania's Anti-Corruption Progress - The Globalist: The battle against authoritarianism engulfs much of Eastern and Central Europe. Romania may emerge as a beacon of democratic hope.

Fiona Hill, Author at The Globalist - The Globalist

Fiona Hill, Author at The Globalist - The Globalist: A collection of articles on Russia by Former National Security Council aide Fiona Hill.

Friday, November 22, 2019

Dispute between Japan and South Korea overshadows G20 meetings - Reuters

Dispute between Japan and South Korea overshadows G20 meetings - Reuters: Japan seized the last event of its G20 presidency on Friday to reject a South Korean warning about radiation from the ruined Fukushima nuclear plant as a dispute between the neighbours threatened to overshadow the meetings.

Radioactive fluid leaking from silo | Times and Star

Radioactive fluid leaking from silo | Times and Star: RADIOACTIVE water is leaking from a nuclear waste storage building as big as 132 double-decker buses at Sellafield.

Saskatchewan To Deploy First SMR In 2030s, Strategy Says :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency

Saskatchewan To Deploy First SMR In 2030s, Strategy Says :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency: The Canadian province of Saskatchewan has included the development of small modular reactor technology in its 2030 growth strategy.



The Next Decade of Growth 2020-2030 plan says: "Incorporating nuclear power through small modular reactors (SMRs) into Saskatchewan's energy mix could provide SaskPower [local utility] with the ability to generate up to 80% of the province's electricity through zero-emission sources when combined with renewable power sources,"

Bill Gates: Still seeking nuclear energy cooperation with China - Chinadaily.com.cn

Bill Gates: Still seeking nuclear energy cooperation with China - Chinadaily.com.cn: Philanthropist and Microsoft founder Bill Gates said on Thursday that he will be looking for opportunities to cooperate with China on developing nuclear energy despite the recent suspension of a joint venture between the US-headquartered TerraPower and a top Chinese nuclear-power producer.

Yucca bill advanced by panel not likely to see House floor

Yucca bill advanced by panel not likely to see House floor: The House Energy and Commerce Committee approved legislation that would restart the licensing process for building a national nuclear waste repository at Yucca Mountain, but the measure, which is opposed by the state’s congressional delegation, is not expected to get a vote on the House floor.

Hanford Management Vexed by ‘Negative Trend’ on CH2M Worker Contamination - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1

Hanford Management Vexed by ‘Negative Trend’ on CH2M Worker Contamination - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

Fort Lewis College research lays foundation for next generation of nuclear power

Fort Lewis College research lays foundation for next generation of nuclear power: Fort Lewis College students are determining the best ways to monitor and work with liquid sodium, a silvery molten metal, which could help develop...

Democrats move to take 100% clean energy push national with new bill | Utility Dive

Democrats move to take 100% clean energy push national with new bill | Utility Dive: Utility industry news, voices and jobs for energy industry professionals. Optimized for your mobile phone.

Global energy forecast, part 4 of 5: Nuclear, biomass and CCS | Energy Central

Global energy forecast, part 4 of 5: Nuclear, biomass and CCS | Energy Central

National Hydrogen Strategy launched in Australia | Energy Central

National Hydrogen Strategy launched in Australia | Energy Central

How an Obscure Pricing Rule and Transmission Holdups Could Put Advanced Energy Resources on Ice


Posted: 22 Nov 2019 07:31 AM PST
There are a couple of major issues currently before FERC and Congress that will impact advanced energy resources in wholesale markets. One of them is a decision expected from FERC soon after it regains a quorum of voting members that threatens to force operators of renewable energy facilities to artificially jack up their prices in a way that leaves them uncompetitive. The other, on which..
https://www.energycentral.com/c/ec/how-obscure-pricing-rule-and-transmission-holdups-could-put-advanced-energy?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Energy+%26+Sustainability+Network+%28all+posts%29

How an Obscure Pricing Rule and Transmission Holdups Could Put Advanced Energy Resources on Ice | The Energy Collective Daily


How an Obscure Pricing Rule and Transmission Holdups Could Put Advanced Energy Resources on Ice | The Energy Collective Daily

Link to The Energy Collective Network

Kudankulam cyberattack no threat to plant operations, minister confirms - World Nuclear News

Kudankulam cyberattack no threat to plant operations, minister confirms - World Nuclear News: Indian Minister of State Jitendra Singh confirmed to the country's parliament this week that a cyberattack discovered in September at the Kudankulam nuclear power plant had been limited to the plant's administrative network.

Acting IAEA head urges Iranian cooperation - World Nuclear News

Acting IAEA head urges Iranian cooperation - World Nuclear News

RadioNuclear podcast featuring Gene Grecheck: The value of preserving the LWR fleet | ANS Nuclear Cafe

RadioNuclear podcast featuring Gene Grecheck: The value of preserving the LWR fleet | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Piqua organic-cooled reactor in photo and film | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Piqua organic-cooled reactor in photo and film | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Does TEPCO Have a Nuclear Future? | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Does TEPCO Have a Nuclear Future? | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Thermal System Coupling – from the 2019 ANS Winter Meeting | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Thermal System Coupling – from the 2019 ANS Winter Meeting | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Live! From ANS Winter Meeting 2019 | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Live! From ANS Winter Meeting 2019 | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Einstein, E=mc², and your Starbucks coffee | ANS Nuclear Cafe

Einstein, E=mc², and your Starbucks coffee | ANS Nuclear Cafe

bne IntelliNews - Russian Rosatom nuclear agency eyes maritime shipping market

bne IntelliNews - Russian Rosatom nuclear agency eyes maritime shipping market: Russian state nuclear power agency Rosatom is planning a massive expansion in the maritime shipping market with an investment of up to ...

Malaysian Government Cancels Plan For Nuclear Power Plant Construction | Lowyat.NET

Malaysian Government Cancels Plan For Nuclear Power Plant Construction | Lowyat.NET: Over the years, it was planned for Malaysia to have its own nuclear power plant to cope with our country's high energy consumption. Recently, the Ministry of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change (MESTECC)

Acting Director General Urges Iran to Fully Cooperate with IAEA | IAEA

Acting Director General Urges Iran to Fully Cooperate with IAEA | IAEA: IAEA Acting Director General Cornel Feruta said Iran should cooperate fully with the Agency in order to resolve outstanding issues in his statement to the Agency’s Board of Governors today.

Exelon wants full ownership of nuclear plant trio » Kallanish Energy News

Exelon wants full ownership of nuclear plant trio » Kallanish Energy News: Exelon Generation announced its partner EDF is exercising the put option in their pact to sell its 49.99% interest in the R.E. Ginna, Nine Mile Point and Calvert Cliffs nuclear power plants to Exelon, Kallanish Energy reports.

Nuclear is a necessary part of our clean-energy future

Nuclear is a necessary part of our clean-energy future: Over the past year, clean energy has become a hot topic, dominating news cycles and conversations around the country. I welcome this conversation and believe the American people deserve to get all the facts.

Call for UK politicians to tackle climate challenge with nuclear power - Power Engineering International

Call for UK politicians to tackle climate challenge with nuclear power - Power Engineering International: An influential group of academics, trade unions, professional bodies and non-governmental organisations has called on politicians from all parties to support the crucial role of nuclear power in delivering the dependable low-carbon electricity needed for a ‘net zero’ emissions economy. A letter, signed by 26 leading figures in the fields of environment, energy, and industry,...

Global Class 1E Nuclear Power Plant Instrumentation Cables Market Insights Report 2019-2025 – Nexans, General Cable, RSCC Wire & Cable – Top Industry News 24

Global Class 1E Nuclear Power Plant Instrumentation Cables Market Insights Report 2019-2025 – Nexans, General Cable, RSCC Wire & Cable – Top Industry News 24

We need to preserve and expand nuclear energy | Powell Tribune

We need to preserve and expand nuclear energy | Powell Tribune

CPUC Audit: 2 Critical Repairs on PG&E Transmission Grid Near Camp Fire Were 632 Days Late - NBC Bay Area

CPUC Audit: 2 Critical Repairs on PG&E Transmission Grid Near Camp Fire Were 632 Days Late - NBC Bay Area: A new regulatory audit of PG&E’s transmission system where the Camp Fire broke out found the company was late in fixing 900 problems on its towers and other equipment, including two critical threats that...

US to shut down Idaho nuclear waste processing project | Stock Daily Dish

US to shut down Idaho nuclear waste processing project | Stock Daily Dish

WVDHSEM holds exercise in support of Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program - WOAY - TV

WVDHSEM holds exercise in support of Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program - WOAY - TV: CHARLESTON, WV (WOAY) — The West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (WVDHSEM) hosted multiple state agencies Nov. 21, 2019, durin
A Rare Look Inside a Russian ICBM Base
"The September video shows Russian troops uncovering their ICBMs, taking them out for a spin, and eventually tucking them back in under camouflage blankets," Matt Korda writes in his latest blog. https://fas.org/blogs/security/2019/11/a-rare-look-inside-a-russian-icbm-base/?utm_source=FAS+General&utm_campaign=5438d91a3b-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_02_21_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_56a7496199-5438d91a3b-199338577

Senate Eyes Clampdown on U.S.-China Research Collaboration

Senate Eyes Clampdown on U.S.-China Research Collaboration
“We have benefited tremendously from the involvement of foreign researchers in the US... And we should not hinder our own ability to compete because there are some cases of wrongdoing,” Ali Nouri tells National Journal about foreign talent recruitment programs.  https://www.nationaljournal.com/s/702819/senate-eyes-clampdown-on-us-china-research-collaboration?utm_source=FAS+General&utm_campaign=5438d91a3b-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_02_21_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_56a7496199-5438d91a3b-199338577

Fukushima Update 11/22/2019

Fukushima Update 11/22/2019 –
The latest data for Fukushima evacuee compensation payments has been posted… Tokyo says releasing Fukushima wastewater to the sea will be safe… Tepco shares the reality of Fukushima wastewater with Tokyo... The estimated cost of Japan’s heightened safety standards has been more than $50 billion… Most work at Tepco nuke plants will be suspended during next summer’s Tokyo Olympic Games.
https://www.hiroshimasyndrome.com/fukushima-accident-updates.html

Thursday, November 21, 2019

PG&E Struggles to Find a Way Out of Bankruptcy - The New York Times

PG&E Struggles to Find a Way Out of Bankruptcy - The New York Times

California’s Governor Wants State-Appointed PG&E Board Members

California’s Governor Wants State-Appointed PG&E Board Members: (Bloomberg) -- California Governor Gavin Newsom wants PG&E Corp. to add state-appointed members to its board as part of the utility giant’s reorganization.Newsom’s administration pushed for this, along with several other conditions, to be included in PG&E’s restructuring plan during a meeting on Wednesday

What the battle over control of PG&E means for US utility customers - Jacksonville Journal-Courier

What the battle over control of PG&E means for US utility customers - Jacksonville Journal-Courier: (The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)
Theodore J. Kury, University of Florida
(THE CONVERSATION) There's a battle raging over the ownership of PG&E Corp., one of the nation's largest utilities, with cities, hedge fund managers and even customers all in the running.
Growing liabilities linked to its role in several deadly wildfires in California forced the company to file for bankruptcy in January. It hopes to soon reemerge with a stronger balance sheet. The state's governor has threatened a government takeover if it doesn't come up with a viable plan that not only keeps the company solvent but also improves safety from wildfire.
Meanwhile, a group of creditors have submitted their own plan to take control of the utility. And dozens of mayors and county leaders are behind an effort to turn PG&E into a customer-owned cooperative, driven by anger over how the company has managed the power grid - including the use of intentional blackouts in recent months to prevent wildfires. Another round of power cuts is likely to add pressure to the embattled utility.
PG&E's troubles may be unique, but it isn't th

Exploring options for PG&E’s future | News | sonomawest.com

Exploring options for PG&E’s future | News | sonomawest.com: Some big decisions about PG&E will be made in the next few months, and local officials are realizing this could have enormous implications for Sonoma County.

FERC Has A Role In PG&E Bankruptcy, 9th Circ. Told - Law360

FERC Has A Role In PG&E Bankruptcy, 9th Circ. Told - Law360: A California bankruptcy judge had no right to rule that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission doesn't have a say in whether Pacific Gas and Electric Co. can ditch power purchase agreements in Chapter 11, the agency told the Ninth Circuit.

PG&E challenges central tenet of bankruptcy law as it presses judge to reject California liability standards


PG&E challenges central tenet of bankruptcy law as it presses judge to reject California liability standards



https://www.utilitydive.com/news/pge-escape-inverse-condemnation/567676/

What Happens to Nuclear Waste in the U.S.?

What Happens to Nuclear Waste in the U.S.?: Nuclear plants produce waste—which is a debatable term—while generating electricity, but what it is exactly and how it’s handled are different than you might think.

U.S. House committee backs bill to restart Yucca Mountain | NevadaAppeal.com

U.S. House committee backs bill to restart Yucca Mountain | NevadaAppeal.com: The House Energy and Commerce Committee on Wednesday reported out the bill designed to restart the Yucca Mountain licensing process.Bob Halstead, head of the Nevada Agency For Nuclear Projects,

How to advance nuclear energy in the US

How to advance nuclear energy in the US: America is still a powerhouse in nuclear innovation, and it's time to show the rest of the world.

Williams County delays decision on landfill request to accept radioactive waste | Bakken News | bismarcktribune.com

Williams County delays decision on landfill request to accept radioactive waste | Bakken News | bismarcktribune.com: Williams County Commissioners have tabled a decision on an updated permit that would allow a landfill to accept radioactive oilfield waste, pending review of recommendations submitted by an attorney who

MOX contractor, NNSA reach widespread $186M settlement | News | aikenstandard.com

MOX contractor, NNSA reach widespread $186M settlement | News | aikenstandard.com: The National Nuclear Security Administration and the firms behind the shuttered Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility at the Savannah River Site have reached a multimillion-dollar settlement agreement, smoothing over and

Bechtel Bags US Navy's $1.4Bn Naval Nuclear Propulsion Components Contract

Bechtel Bags US Navy's $1.4Bn Naval Nuclear Propulsion Components Contract

NASA Tests Melanin-Based Radiation Blocker for Astronauts | Machine Design

NASA Tests Melanin-Based Radiation Blocker for Astronauts | Machine Design: A biological pigment mixed with manmade polymers could acts as a sunscreen strong enough for space journeys.

Exelon starts talks to acquire full stake in three jointly-owned nuke plants - Exelon Corporation (NASDAQ:EXC) | Seeking Alpha

Exelon starts talks to acquire full stake in three jointly-owned nuke plants - Exelon Corporation (NASDAQ:EXC) | Seeking Alpha: Exelon ([[EXC]] -0.6%) says EDF (ECIFF) will exercise its option to sell its 49.99% stake in three U.S. nuclear energy plants to EXC. Exelon Generation alr

Visualizing Permian Oil & Gas Production (Through August 2019) | The Energy Collective Daily

Visualizing Permian Oil & Gas Production (Through August 2019) | The Energy Collective Daily

Link to The Energy Collective Network

Viewpoint: Creating a level playing field in energy markets - World Nuclear News

Viewpoint: Creating a level playing field in energy markets - World Nuclear News: Fair energy markets can and should be the perfect place for establishing an effective clean energy system bringing about real emission reduction, writes Dr Józef Sobolewski.

US legislature considers waste management reforms - World Nuclear News

US legislature considers waste management reforms - World Nuclear News: Draft legislation to update the US Department of Energy's ability to manage nuclear waste - passed by the House Energy and Commerce Committee yesterday - would allow DOE to build and operate interim storage sites to consolidate used fuel from decommissioned reactors. Similar draft legislation has now been introduced in the US Senate.

Nigerian Senate calls for inclusion of nuclear in energy mix - World Nuclear News

Nigerian Senate calls for inclusion of nuclear in energy mix - World Nuclear News: The Senate of Nigeria has called on the government to consider the inclusion of nuclear power in the country's energy mix. In resolutions agreed yesterday, it asked the government to give the Nigerian Atomic Energy Commission a mandate to ensure timely talks with nuclear reactor vendors.

Viewpoint: Creating a level playing field in energy markets - World Nuclear News

Viewpoint: Creating a level playing field in energy markets - World Nuclear News: Fair energy markets can and should be the perfect place for establishing an effective clean energy system bringing about real emission reduction, writes Dr Józef Sobolewski.

Long-Term Wear Found on PG&E Line That Sparked Camp Fire - NBC Bay Area

Long-Term Wear Found on PG&E Line That Sparked Camp Fire - NBC Bay Area

Nuclear Waste Bill Gains Traction in the House

Nuclear Waste Bill Gains Traction in the House: A bill to amend the Nuclear Waste Policy Act (NWPA) of 1982 and give the Department of Energy (DOE) the authority to site, build, and operate one or more

Karlovac Company Adriadiesel Completes Complex Task for Nuclear Power Plant

Karlovac Company Adriadiesel Completes Complex Task for Nuclear Power Plant: Adriadiesel company performs a complete overhaul of a 84-tonne diesel engine it built in 1978, which has worked in Smolensk Nuclear Power Plant ever since.

EDF Will Bail on Three Nuclear Plants, Exelon Holds the Bag

EDF Will Bail on Three Nuclear Plants, Exelon Holds the Bag: Exelon Generation said EDF Group is exercising a put option to sell its 49.99% interest in three nuclear power plants located in New York and Maryland.

France's EDF to sell its stake in U.S. nuclear reactor firm CENG | Nasdaq

France's EDF to sell its stake in U.S. nuclear reactor firm CENG | Nasdaq: French state-controlled power group EDF said it would exercise an option to sell its 49.99% stake in CENG, which owns five nuclear reactors across three nuclear power plants in the United States.

Japan: Environmentalists say Fukushima water too radioactive to release | Asia| An in-depth look at news from across the continent | DW | 20.11.2019

Japan: Environmentalists say Fukushima water too radioactive to release | Asia| An in-depth look at news from across the continent | DW | 20.11.2019: Officials in Japan have claimed that water exposed to radiation in the Fukushima nuclear disaster is now safe to dump into the Pacific. Environmentalists say the water is too contaminated. Julian Ryall reports.

South Korea Nuclear Regulator Wants Information on Radioactive Fukushima Water Release - The New York Times

South Korea Nuclear Regulator Wants Information on Radioactive Fukushima Water Release - The New York Times

India confirms malware attack at Kudankulam nuclear power plant

India confirms malware attack at Kudankulam nuclear power plant: Minister of State for Atomic Energy and Space Jitendra Singh said that the cyber attack happened in the administrative block and not in the plant .The cyberattacks assume importance given the increased state of hostilities in the Indian subcontinent

Kudankulam nuclear plant cyberattack opens a new Indian war front — Quartz India

Kudankulam nuclear plant cyberattack opens a new Indian war front — Quartz India: Even nuclear plants are not safe.

CA Gov. Newsom will sue Trump over environment, Delta water | The Sacramento Bee

CA Gov. Newsom will sue Trump over environment, Delta water | The Sacramento Bee: Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration will fight President Donald Trump over his plan to push more water through the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta to benefit farmers. California says the plan hurts the environment.

EDF Will Bail on Three Nuclear Plants, Exelon Holds the Bag

EDF Will Bail on Three Nuclear Plants, Exelon Holds the Bag: Exelon Generation said EDF Group is exercising a put option to sell its 49.99% interest in three nuclear power plants located in New York and Maryland.

‘Not much benefit to the state’: Legislators scrutinize details of Holtec’s proposed nuclear storage facility | The NM Political Report

‘Not much benefit to the state’: Legislators scrutinize details of Holtec’s proposed nuclear storage facility | The NM Political Report: Ed Mayer, program manager at the private firm that is seeking to build one of the world’s largest nuclear waste storage facilities in New Mexico, wants to set the record straight. “You hear sometimes, oh, this is going to be a nuclear waste dump. This isn’t a dump,” Mayer told members of the Legislature’s Radioactive […]

NRC Board Dismisses Final Contention Against Texas Spent Fuel Storage Licensing - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1

NRC Board Dismisses Final Contention Against Texas Spent Fuel Storage Licensing - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

NRC Seeks Input on Developing a GEIS for Advanced Reactors | Morgan Lewis - JDSupra

NRC Seeks Input on Developing a GEIS for Advanced Reactors | Morgan Lewis - JDSupra: As we reported last summer, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Staff is considering whether to prepare a Generic Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS) for the construction and...

NRC proposes $145,000 civil penalty for TVA for violations at Watts Bar plant | WTVC

NRC proposes $145,000 civil penalty for TVA for violations at Watts Bar plant | WTVC: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has proposed the assessment of a $145,000 civil penalty to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) for submitting incomplete and inaccurate information to the NRC that was material in a licensing decision at the Watts Bar nuclear plant. The NRC says TVA has admitted to the Severity Level III violation but can contest the assessment of the civil penalty through alternative dispute resolution, involving an independent mediator, if it chooses.

Nuclear Regulatory Commission reviews new plan for Pickard Hall demolition - ABC17NEWS

Nuclear Regulatory Commission reviews new plan for Pickard Hall demolition - ABC17NEWS: The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission is reviewing decommissioning plans for the demolition of Pickard Hall.

Update: Power being restored to homes affected by PG&E’s latest shutoff


Update: Power being restored to homes affected by PG&E’s latest shutoff


Read more here: https://www.sacbee.com/news/california/fires/article237616839.html?#storylink=cpy

https://www.sacbee.com/news/california/fires/article237616839.html?

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Pentagon says Iran's missiles unrivaled in Middle East

Pentagon says Iran's missiles unrivaled in Middle East: Washington (AFP) Nov 19, 2019 - Despite decades of sanctions, Iran has succeeded in developing its missile arsenal, which is larger than that of any other Middle Eastern country including Israel, a Pentagon study said Tuesday.

Nuclear Liabilities Need to be Put in Clearer Perspective | RealClearEnergy

Nuclear Liabilities Need to be Put in Clearer Perspective | RealClearEnergy: Nuclear Liabilities Need to be Put in Clearer Perspective | RealClearEnergy

How Decarbonizing Electricity Can Help Reach U.S. Net Zero Emissions By 2050 | Energy Central

How Decarbonizing Electricity Can Help Reach U.S. Net Zero Emissions By 2050 | Energy Central

Ministry Says It Is Safe To Release Radioactive Water Into Ocean :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency

Ministry Says It Is Safe To Release Radioactive Water Into Ocean :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency: Japan’s industry ministry said it will be safe to release water contaminated by the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear accident into the ocean, stressing that on an annual basis the amount of radiation measured near the release point would be very small compared to levels to which humans are naturally exposed.



Discharging the water into the Pacific Ocean over the course of a year would amount to between just one-1,600th and one-40,000th of the radiation to which humans are naturally exposed, the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry, or METI, told a government subcommittee on the issue.



Water used to cool the melted-down cores and groundwater from close to the damaged facility contain some radioactive materials. It is being collected and stored in tanks on the plant grounds, but space is running out and the government is exploring ways to deal with the waste water — which already totals more than 1 million tonnes with the volume increasing by more than 100 tonnes every day.

China clear to decommission its first research reactor - World Nuclear News

China clear to decommission its first research reactor - World Nuclear News: China has approved the decommissioning plan for its first nuclear reactor - the Heavy Water Research Reactor, which will be undertaken by the China Institute of Atomic Energy. CIAE received government approval of the plan on 4 November.

OECD/NEA highlights challenges facing isotope supply chain - World Nuclear News

OECD/NEA highlights challenges facing isotope supply chain - World Nuclear News: The structure of the medical radioisotope supply chain is impeding the provision of technetium-99m, a new report by an OECD Nuclear Energy Agency high-level group has found. Supplies of the world's most widely used medical radioisotope remain fragile.

EDF plans to sell stake in US joint venture - World Nuclear News

EDF plans to sell stake in US joint venture - World Nuclear News: France's EDF said today it will exercise an option to sell its 49.99% stake in Constellation Energy Nuclear Group, its joint venture with US utility Exelon. CENG owns five nuclear power reactors at three sites in the USA.

MOX Services gets settlement deal for shuttered facility at Savannah River - World Nuclear News

MOX Services gets settlement deal for shuttered facility at Savannah River - World Nuclear News: The Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration has reached a settlement agreement with MOX Services and its parent companies to resolve all contract closeout matters pertaining to the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility project at the Savannah River Site in Aiken, South Carolina.

Could Bill Gates’ Secret Startup Kill Fossil Fuels? | OilPrice.com

Could Bill Gates’ Secret Startup Kill Fossil Fuels? | OilPrice.com: A clean energy startup, backed by Bill Gates, says it has achieved for the first time commercially very high temperatures from solar energy that could replace the need for fossil fuels

Senate panel votes favorably on energy secretary nominee | News | aikenstandard.com

Senate panel votes favorably on energy secretary nominee | News | aikenstandard.com: The U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has favorably reported the nomination of Dan Brouillette to be the next secretary of energy, quickly clearing an early hurdle.

We Must Rebuild American Uranium, Rare Earths Infrastructure « Breaking Defense - Defense industry news, analysis and commentary

We Must Rebuild American Uranium, Rare Earths Infrastructure « Breaking Defense - Defense industry news, analysis and commentary: Rare earths are 17 chemical elements used in military equipment as varied as missile guidance systems to  lasers. China controls much of the world’s rare earth production, which has made them a concern of the Pentagon and the White House. Uranium is another critical military material largely controlled today by foreign sources. What should be done? Read on! The Editor. One way China and Russia are successfully undermining American leadership is by flooding the global market with state-subsided rare earths, including the nuclear materials that power critical American aircraft carriers and submarines. Immediate, direct federal purchases of uranium is one key way that we can counter the malign influence of China and Russia by securing the U.S. nuclear supply chain for national security. Utilizing his newly-created Nuclear Fuel Working Group, President Trump can strengthen America’s position in the world and restore a finite and diminishing American uranium supply with direct federal uranium purchases. China has made production of rare earths a strategic priority. Roughly 80 percent of the rare earths imported by the U.S. come from China. Just 30 years ago, the U.S. was the world’s l

Navajo Generating Station coal plant in Arizona closes | Energy Central

Navajo Generating Station coal plant in Arizona closes | Energy Central

California FocusCPUC is still getting key roles despite scandals and conflicts | Energy Central

California FocusCPUC is still getting key roles despite scandals and conflicts | Energy Central

Customers Notified That High Winds and Dry Conditions on Wednesday May Prompt PG&E to Call a Public Safety Power Shutoff | Energy Central

Customers Notified That High Winds and Dry Conditions on Wednesday May Prompt PG&E to Call a Public Safety Power Shutoff | Energy Central

PG&E's latest power shutoffs could now hit San Mateo, Santa Clara counties | Energy Central

PG&E's latest power shutoffs could now hit San Mateo, Santa Clara counties | Energy Central

PG&EShut-offs, fire weather coming back | Energy Central

PG&EShut-offs, fire weather coming back | Energy Central

Nuclear Matters

 Nuclear Matters
The future of clean energy is right around the corner.
Whether it’s reactor fuel advancements, fusion energy research, or using supercomputers to test new advanced reactors, the nuclear energy industry is on the cutting edge of technology and energy development. Investment in nuclear tech is propelling the industry – and our entire country – forward.
And the people behind the plants are paving the way.
As we approach Thanksgiving, we want to take a moment to recognize the thousands of men and women who work around the clock every day to ensure our communities are supplied with consistent, reliable clean energy, especially around the holidays. You are powering the future of energy innovation in our country. Thank you for all you do!


The news you need to know:
  • Fusion energy research. The race for fusion energy is on, and the United States has an opportunity to lead the way. With the right investment from Congress, the U.S. could be the home of a world-changing - and potentially world-saving - technology.
  • Supercomputers + advanced reactors. With some of the most powerful computers in the world, Argonne National Laboratory plays a critical role in helping scientists hone in on what advanced reactor designs might work.
  • Making next-gen reactors a reality. The U.S. is making good headway toward the development and deployment of advanced nuclear energy, but to accelerate our progress, American innovators and the U.S. government must work together to build an ambitious policy agenda around advanced nuclear innovation.
  • A peek inside Palo Verde. Ever wanted a closer look at the largest source of clean energy in the U.S.? Palo Verde Generating Station provides 70% of Arizona’s clean energy. Recently, a group of journalists was invited to take a tour of the 4,000-acre facility. You’ll want to see this.
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THE FUTURE OF CLEAN ENERGY DEPENDS ON YOU!
You’ve got my attention. What’s the deal? The Nuclear Powers America Act of 2019 (H.R. 2314; S. 1134) is a bipartisan, bicameral bill that would support existing nuclear power plants with an investment tax credit modeled after tax credits for other forms of clean energy.
That sounds important! It is! This bill would help secure America’s clean energy future by investing in nuclear power, but if Congress doesn’t act quickly, more reactors will close prematurely, which will make meeting our clean energy goals that much more expensive and difficult.
So now what? Right now, we need your help. Whether you’re reaching out to your legislators asking them to co-sponsor the bill or thanking them for their support, every letter counts. Click the link below to send an email to your legislators before it’s too late!
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Nuclear Matters · NC, United States
Nuclear Matters
Michele,
The future of clean energy is right around the corner.
Whether it’s reactor fuel advancements, fusion energy research, or using supercomputers to test new advanced reactors, the nuclear energy industry is on the cutting edge of technology and energy development. Investment in nuclear tech is propelling the industry – and our entire country – forward.
And the people behind the plants are paving the way.
As we approach Thanksgiving, we want to take a moment to recognize the thousands of men and women who work around the clock every day to ensure our communities are supplied with consistent, reliable clean energy, especially around the holidays. You are powering the future of energy innovation in our country. Thank you for all you do!

South Korea nuclear regulator wants information on radioactive Fukushima water release - Reuters

South Korea nuclear regulator wants information on radioactive Fukushima water release - Reuters: Japan's reluctance to disclose information about the release of radioactive water from its damaged Fukushima nuclear plant is hampering neighboring countries' efforts to minimize the impact, the head of South Korea's nuclear safety agency said on Wednesday.

France's EDF to sell its stake in U.S. nuclear reactor firm CENG - Reuters

France's EDF to sell its stake in U.S. nuclear reactor firm CENG - Reuters: French state-controlled power group EDF said it would exercise an option to sell its 49.99% stake in CENG, which owns five nuclear reactors across three nuclear power plants in the United States.

DOE Nuclear Energy Chief Commits to Studying Use of Advance Reactors for Nuclear Recyling - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1

DOE Nuclear Energy Chief Commits to Studying Use of Advance Reactors for Nuclear Recyling - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

Safety Group Signs Agreement With China Nuclear Energy Association :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency

Safety Group Signs Agreement With China Nuclear Energy Association :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency: The World Association of Nuclear Operators and the China Nuclear Energy Association (CNEA) have signed a memorandum of understanding which formalises their arrangement to work together on commercial nuclear safety and reliability.



Under the terms of the agreement, CNEA has become a category 3 member of WANO and will be affiliated with the organisation’s London office until WANO’s Shanghai Office is established as a fully-fledged and operational regional centre.

Colorado Court of Appeals rules for mine cleanup

Colorado Court of Appeals rules for mine cleanup: The Colorado Court of Appeals has ordered the long-dormant Van 4 uranium mine near the lower Dolores River to be closed down and cleaned up.

Murkowski, Senators Join Contingency Pressing for End of Nuclear Financing Ban

Murkowski, Senators Join Contingency Pressing for End of Nuclear Financing Ban: Six U.S. senators are calling on the U.S. International Development Finance Corp. to rescind a ban on nuclear energy financing abroad as the agency takes shape, adding to a groundswell of supporters pressuring the government to free up financial assistance for civil nuclear projects.

Battelle looking for partners on reactor project | Government | postregister.com

Battelle looking for partners on reactor project | Government | postregister.com: The contractor that runs Idaho National Laboratory is looking for private partners to build the first new test reactor in the United States in decades.

EDF plans to sell stake in US joint venture - World Nuclear News

EDF plans to sell stake in US joint venture - World Nuclear News: France's EDF said today it will exercise an option to sell its 49.99% stake in Constellation Energy Nuclear Group, its joint venture with US utility Exelon. CENG owns five nuclear power reactors at three sites in the USA.

MOX Services gets settlement deal for shuttered facility at Savannah River - World Nuclear News

MOX Services gets settlement deal for shuttered facility at Savannah River - World Nuclear News: The Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration has reached a settlement agreement with MOX Services and its parent companies to resolve all contract closeout matters pertaining to the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility project at the Savannah River Site in Aiken, South Carolina.