Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Saturday, April 11, 2020

Congressmen urge DOE to start processing spent nuclear fuel - Local News 8

Congressmen urge DOE to start processing spent nuclear fuel - Local News 8: Idaho's congressional delegation is urging the Department of Energy to take additional action to remove spent nuclear fuel from the Idaho National Laboratory.

We weren't ready for a pandemic — imagine a crippling cyberattack | TheHill

We weren't ready for a pandemic — imagine a crippling cyberattack | TheHill: The vulnerability of our electric grid is another 'blinking red light' threat to our national security and economy.

Nuclear Power Plants - Refueling Amid COVID-19

Nuclear Power Plants - Refueling Amid COVID-19: Nuclear plants refuel only once every two years. But the COVID-19 pandemic has caused problems. Local officials in Pennsylvania asked Limerick Nuclear Plant to delay refueling, but the company says refueling is needed for vital reliable power to the region's hospitals and critical facilities.

Energy efficiency efforts are shutting down due to COVID-19, threatening jobs and savings

 

Energy efficiency efforts are shutting down due to COVID-19, threatening jobs and savings


https://www.utilitydive.com/news/energy-efficiency-efforts-are-shutting-down-due-to-covid-19-threatening-jo/575496/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter%20Weekly%20Roundup:%20Utility%20Dive%2004-11-2020&utm_term=Utility%20Dive%20Weekender

Bingeworthy Clean Energy Content

 


Two great pieces of programming you can watch this weekend:
1.) Clean Power Hour #2 - Advanced Nuclear vs. Climate Change.  Our weekly livestream is back with some amazing guests.  Tune in for a bit of hope for the future from 1:00ET to 2:15ET today, on facebook,  youtube, or zoom.
Webinar Guests
2.) A well made and very entertaining documentary called Thorium, The Far Side of Nuclear.  It tells the story of how, over 50 years ago, a group of scientists tasked with making a nuclear airplane, invented a different type of nuclear reactor. A reactor that couldn't melt down (not that meltdowns are anywhere as deadly as coal plants, spewing pollution in normal operation) and made enough process heat that it could deeply decarbonize our entire society.  It's called the Molten Salt Reactor. Oh, and it has one of my favorite scientists, Alvin Weinberg, in cartoon form, drinking Jack Daniels for a good chunk of the movie. Definitely worth a watch:
Thorium Far Side Of Nuclear
Have a great weekend, and thanks for everything you do in the fight for fission,
Eric
 
 
Generation Atomic
1878 Pascal St.
Saint Paul, MN 55113

Saudi Arabia Is Buying Up European Oil Majors | OilPrice.com

Saudi Arabia Is Buying Up European Oil Majors | OilPrice.com: The Saudi sovereign wealth fund has bought stakes worth a combined $1 billion in four European oil majors: Shell, Total, Eni, and Equinor

When Can We Expect The Electric Car Revolution? | The Energy Collective Daily

When Can We Expect The Electric Car Revolution? | The Energy Collective Daily

Link to The Energy Collective Network

Thursday, April 9, 2020

TVA and University of Tennessee agree SMR collaboration : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

TVA and University of Tennessee agree SMR collaboration : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News: The Tennessee Valley Authority is to collaborate with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville to evaluate the development of a new generation of advanced nuclear reactors at TVA's Clinch River site. TVA has an early site permit from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission for two or more small modular reactors at the site but has not yet taken a decision to build.

Magwood outlines Nuclear Energy Agency's response to pandemic : Covid-19 - World Nuclear News

Magwood outlines Nuclear Energy Agency's response to pandemic : Covid-19 - World Nuclear News: The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency is supporting its members as they adjust to the environment created by the COVID-19 crisis and establishing a means for rapid exchange of ideas and best practices, the Paris-based intergovernmental organisation's director general, William Magwood, said yesterday.

KHNP to support Canadian decommissioning projects : Waste & Recycling - World Nuclear News

KHNP to support Canadian decommissioning projects : Waste & Recycling - World Nuclear News: Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power has signed a contract with Canadian nuclear engineering firm Kinectrics to provide decommissioning engineering support, building on a memorandum of understanding on the dismantling of nuclear power plants they signed in August 2019. The contract will see Korean nuclear power plant decommissioning personnel dispatched overseas for the first time.

TVO seeks go-ahead for Olkiluoto EPR fuel loading : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

TVO seeks go-ahead for Olkiluoto EPR fuel loading : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News: Teollisuuden Voima Oyj yesterday applied to the Finnish nuclear regulator for permission to load fuel into the reactor of the Olkiluoto 3 EPR. This process, which had been scheduled for June, is likely to be delayed however because of measures put in place at the plant to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Nuclear News Features -- ANS / Publications / Magazines / Nuclear News

Nuclear News Features -- ANS / Publications / Magazines / Nuclear News

Bilfinger Lands Key Hinkley Point C Contract - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Bilfinger Lands Key Hinkley Point C Contract - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers: The latest nuclear news in Nuclear Power Industry about utilities, companies, suppliers in the nuclear energy market.

Assystem Joins Rolls-Royce SMR Consortium :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency

Assystem Joins Rolls-Royce SMR Consortium :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency: UK-based nuclear engineering company Assystem has announced it will become part of a UK consortium established to design and build compact nuclear power stations.



The consortium is comprised of Assystem, Atkins, BAM Nuttall, Laing O’Rourke, National Nuclear Laboratory, Nuclear AMRC, Rolls-Royce, Jacobs and TWI.



It is working to design a first-of-a-kind small modular reactor that will be at the heart of the UK’s planned low-carbon economy.

LANL postpones radioactive vapor release because of COVID-19 | Coronavirus | santafenewmexican.com

LANL postpones radioactive vapor release because of COVID-19 | Coronavirus | santafenewmexican.com: Workers required to vent the containers are working off-site as part of the lab's effort to practice social distancing.

Daily Testing, Protective Gear Needed for Essential Workers During Pandemic, HASC Chair Says - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1

Daily Testing, Protective Gear Needed for Essential Workers During Pandemic, HASC Chair Says - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

Lower-cost fusion projects receive $32m boost from US Department of Energy - Power Engineering International

Lower-cost fusion projects receive $32m boost from US Department of Energy - Power Engineering International: The US Department of Energy has announced the winners of $32m in funding for 15 projects as part of the Breakthroughs Enabling THermonuclear-fusion Energy program.

Keeping Nuclear Facilities Operational During the COVID-19 Pandemic – Homeland Security Today

Keeping Nuclear Facilities Operational During the COVID-19 Pandemic – Homeland Security Today

Nuclear Power Generation Market 2020 Growth Analysis by Top Manufacturers, Driving Factors, Type, Application, Industry Marketing Channel, Regional Overview and Forecast 2015-2027 – Science In Me

Nuclear Power Generation Market 2020 Growth Analysis by Top Manufacturers, Driving Factors, Type, Application, Industry Marketing Channel, Regional Overview and Forecast 2015-2027 – Science In Me

More Limerick nuclear plant workers test positive for coronavirus; refueling to continue

More Limerick nuclear plant workers test positive for coronavirus; refueling to continue: About 23 of the quarantined workers show symptoms, Val Arkoosh, the chair of the Montgomery County Commission, said Tuesday.

Myth or reality? EDF debunks misconceptions around nuclear energy

Myth or reality? EDF debunks misconceptions around nuclear energy: EDF recently released a series of videos debunking myths about the safety, cleanness and consistency of nuclear power energy.

New TRISO Nuclear Mini-Reactors Will Be Safe: Program Manager « Breaking Defense - Defense industry news, analysis and commentary

New TRISO Nuclear Mini-Reactors Will Be Safe: Program Manager « Breaking Defense - Defense industry news, analysis and commentary: If the Pentagon does build the mobile reactors, it will deploy them far from the front lines – and even if they’re hit, their revolutionary TRISO fuel pellets will stay intact at temperatures that can melt steel.

IAEA and UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory to Cooperate on Sustainability of Nuclear Power | IAEA

IAEA and UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory to Cooperate on Sustainability of Nuclear Power | IAEA: The IAEA and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) of the United Kingdom have agreed to strengthen their cooperation in support of a sustainable future for nuclear power, including activities on existing and emerging nuclear reactor technologies as well as decommissioning and radioactive waste management.

(2020-2025) Class 1E Nuclear Power Plant Instrumentation Cables Market – Trends & Leading Players| Industry Size, Growth, Segments, Revenue, Manufacturers & Forecast Research Report – Science In Me

(2020-2025) Class 1E Nuclear Power Plant Instrumentation Cables Market – Trends & Leading Players| Industry Size, Growth, Segments, Revenue, Manufacturers & Forecast Research Report – Science In Me

Global Global Nuclear Power Plant Market 2020-2025 Get Details like Top Industry Players | Technology | Innovations and Analysis – Science In Me

Global Global Nuclear Power Plant Market 2020-2025 Get Details like Top Industry Players | Technology | Innovations and Analysis – Science In Me

Nuclear Power Plants - Refueling Amid COVID-19

Nuclear Power Plants - Refueling Amid COVID-19: Nuclear plants refuel only once every two years. But the COVID-19 pandemic has caused problems. Local officials in Pennsylvania asked Limerick Nuclear Plant to delay refueling, but the company says refueling is needed for vital reliable power to the region's hospitals and critical facilities.

U.S military wants to build mobile microreactor in Idaho - The Hour

U.S military wants to build mobile microreactor in Idaho - The Hour: BOISE, Idaho (AP) - The U.S. Department of Defense wants to build a prototype advanced mobile nuclear microreactor at the Idaho National Laboratory in eastern Idaho, saying they are needed to ensure the military's energy supply.
The microreactor would be capable of producing one to 10 megawatts. A megawatt can power from about 400 to 900 homes, depending on energy consumption that is dependent on such things as air conditioning.
The department says it wants to reduce reliance on local electric grids, which are highly vulnerable to prolonged outages from a variety of threats.
The department is considering building the microreactor at the U.S. Department of Energy's Idaho National Laboratory. The Oak Ridge National Laboratory in eastern Tennessee would also take part.
Edwin Lyman, director of Nuclear Power Safety at the Union of Concerned Scientists, a nonprofit, said the project has a goal of creating a portable reactor that can shut down and start up quickly, and doesn't need maintenance or an operator.
"We're talking about paper designs where it would take a long time to develop and demonstrate them to the point where any military commander would actually want to have on

Will OPEC and Russia rescue oil? - POLITICO

Will OPEC and Russia rescue oil? - POLITICO: Climate activists lay out Biden actions — Trump backs TVA salary cut

DOE Extends West Valley Demonstration Project Cleanup Contract Extension Will Enable Safe Demolition of Last Remaining Major Facility | Department of Energy

DOE Extends West Valley Demonstration Project Cleanup Contract Extension Will Enable Safe Demolition of Last Remaining Major Facility | Department of Energy: DOE Extends West Valley Demonstration Project Cleanup Contract Extension Will Enable Safe Demolition of Last Remaining Major Facility

ANS Student Webinar Series


ANS Student Webinar Series
Tune in to tomorrow's design competition! 
Watch 10 senior design teams compete for cash prizes during tomorrow's Student Design Competition at Noon EDT. The webinar is free and open to all – register now!
 
The third and final installment of the ANS Student Webinar Series provides a special opportunity for students unable to present at the recently postponed 2020 ANS Student Conference. Students will give a five-minute pitch of their research. Many of these projects are industry and lab collaborations.
 
The competing teams include:
  • Project OLS – West Point
  • University of Michigan Senior Measurements Team – University of Michigan
  • The Salty Spitoon – North Carolina State University
  • Millenial – University of Michigan
  • Army Nuclear Power for Land Operations – West Point
  • The Hot Rods – North Carolina State University
  • Group 7 – North Carolina State University
  • ONE Energy – Ontario Tech University
  • Team RADBOT – West Point
  • High Enrichment/High Burnup Fuel Pattern Loading Optimization for a Westinghouse Loop Pressurized Water Reactor – North Carolina State University
The competition will be moderated by Kelley Verner, ANS Student Sections Committee Chair.
 
 

 
About the Student Webinar Series
This exciting new initiative was developed by ANS following the postponement of the 2020 ANS Student Conference due to COVID-19. The series, which is free and open to all, includes: 
Mark your calendars! The 2021 ANS Student Conference has been rescheduled for next April 8-10 at NC State University in Raleigh, NC.
 
Learn about other live and on demand webinars offered by ANS.
 

Did Trump give Israel 1 million face masks despite coronavirus eq

Did Trump give Israel 1 million face masks despite coronavirus eq: An Israeli press report claiming the US Department of Defense shipped one million face masks to Israel have angered Americans, causing some to question the Trump administration's priorities

Will OPEC and Russia rescue oil? - POLITICO

Will OPEC and Russia rescue oil? - POLITICO: Climate activists lay out Biden actions — Trump backs TVA salary cut

TVA and University of Tennessee agree SMR collaboration : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

TVA and University of Tennessee agree SMR collaboration : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News: The Tennessee Valley Authority is to collaborate with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville to evaluate the development of a new generation of advanced nuclear reactors at TVA's Clinch River site. TVA has an early site permit from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission for two or more small modular reactors at the site but has not yet taken a decision to build.

TVA and University of Tennessee agree SMR collaboration : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

TVA and University of Tennessee agree SMR collaboration : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News: The Tennessee Valley Authority is to collaborate with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville to evaluate the development of a new generation of advanced nuclear reactors at TVA's Clinch River site. TVA has an early site permit from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission for two or more small modular reactors at the site but has not yet taken a decision to build.

Coronavirus strikes Fermi 2 nuclear plant during refueling; utility keeps working | Toledo Blade

Coronavirus strikes Fermi 2 nuclear plant during refueling; utility keeps working | Toledo Blade: NEWPORT, Mich. — An undisclosed number of coronavirus cases have been documented inside Fermi 2 during the nuclear plant’s latest refueling outage.
But ...

Coronavirus strikes Fermi 2 nuclear plant during refueling; utility keeps working | Toledo Blade

Coronavirus strikes Fermi 2 nuclear plant during refueling; utility keeps working | Toledo Blade: NEWPORT, Mich. — An undisclosed number of coronavirus cases have been documented inside Fermi 2 during the nuclear plant’s latest refueling outage.
But ...

NRC Issues Guidance to Radioactive Material Licensees on Regulatory Relief During COVID-19 Pandemic | Morgan Lewis - Up & Atom - JDSupra

NRC Issues Guidance to Radioactive Material Licensees on Regulatory Relief During COVID-19 Pandemic | Morgan Lewis - Up & Atom - JDSupra: The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) issued a letter on April 7 to all NRC licensees authorized to possess byproduct, source, and special nuclear material – excluding operating...

NRC Extends Comment Period on Very Low-Level Waste Disposal - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1

NRC Extends Comment Period on Very Low-Level Waste Disposal - ExchangeMonitor | Page 1: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.

Seabrook nuclear plant undergoes refueling during pandemic - News - seacoastonline.com - Portsmouth, NH

Seabrook nuclear plant undergoes refueling during pandemic - News - seacoastonline.com - Portsmouth, NH: SEABROOK – NextEra Energy Seabrook nuclear power plant is currently undergoing its regular refueling, and though the COVID-19 crisis is offering unforeseen limitations, according to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the process still has the agency’s full attention."The notion that we don’t have a presence (regarding) our resident inspectors at the plant is not accurate," said Neil Sheehan, spokesman for NRC’s Region 1. "We very much still have a presence there."All

Atomic Safety board delays Seabrook nuclear plant decision - News - seacoastonline.com - Portsmouth, NH

Atomic Safety board delays Seabrook nuclear plant decision - News - seacoastonline.com - Portsmouth, NH: SEABROOK - The Atomic Safety and Licensing Board says it needs more time to decide whether to uphold NextEra Energy Seabrook nuclear power plant’s 20-year license extension and related operating license amendment.The ASLB was scheduled to issue a decision by April 9, but now anticipates that it will make a ruling by July 10. It notified the Nuclear Regulatory Commission that it is “working on the ruling but has concluded that an extension of time is required.”This is the

IAEA Steps up Support for Nuclear Facility Operators during COVID-19 Crisis | Energy Central

IAEA Steps up Support for Nuclear Facility Operators during COVID-19 Crisis | Energy Central

NRC to Conduct Public Webinar on April 21 to Discuss Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant Decommissioning Topics | Energy Central

NRC to Conduct Public Webinar on April 21 to Discuss Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant Decommissioning Topics | Energy Central

Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Inc., Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, Units 3 and 4; Removal of the Preoperational Passive Residual Heat Removal Heat Exchanger Natural Circulation Test | Energy Central

Southern Nuclear Operating Company, Inc., Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, Units 3 and 4; Removal of the Preoperational Passive Residual Heat Removal Heat Exchanger Natural Circulation Test | Energy Central

Eversource Foundation Donates More Than $2 Million to Support Communities During COVID-19 Pandemic | Energy Central

Eversource Foundation Donates More Than $2 Million to Support Communities During COVID-19 Pandemic | Energy Central

News Manhattan Institute for Policy Research: New Study Analyzes Costs, Benefits of California Electricity Shutoffs


News

Manhattan Institute for Policy Research: New Study Analyzes Costs, Benefits of California Electricity Shutoffs



https://energycentral.com/news/manhattan-institute-policy-research-new-study-analyzes-costs-benefits-california-electricity?utm_medium=eNL&utm_campaign=DAILY_NEWS&utm_content=504046&utm_source=2020_04_09

Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Fortum to decommission Finnish research reactor : Waste & Recycling - World Nuclear News

Fortum to decommission Finnish research reactor : Waste & Recycling - World Nuclear News: Finnish utility Fortum has been awarded a contract by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland to decommission the Finnish Reactor 1 research reactor in Espoo. It will be the first nuclear reactor to be decommissioned in Finland.

Rosatom uses new inspection device at Kalinin unit 1 : Regulation & Safety - World Nuclear News

Rosatom uses new inspection device at Kalinin unit 1 : Regulation & Safety - World Nuclear News: Rosatom has for the first time used a new device that it says performs all types of non-destructive testing automatically and without the use of a polar crane and a reloading machine. The Kalinin plant is just over 200 miles north-west of Moscow, in the Tver region of Russia.

Cameco assesses Inkai and Ontario operations : Uranium & Fuel - World Nuclear News

Cameco assesses Inkai and Ontario operations : Uranium & Fuel - World Nuclear News: Canadian uranium producer Cameco says Kazatomprom's decision to temporarily decrease operational activity at their Inkai joint venture is "an unplanned event that may lead to variability" in its 2020 outlook. Cameco has also announced that it is implementing a number of temporary operational changes at its fuel services division facilities in Ontario.

Dukovany project will help repair economic damage of pandemic, lobby group says : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News

Dukovany project will help repair economic damage of pandemic, lobby group says : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News: A group of local authorities near the Dukovany nuclear power plant in the Czech Republic said yesterday that plans to expand the facility must go ahead to help offset the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Czech utility ČEZ last month applied to the State Office for Nuclear Safety to construct two new reactors at its Dukovany plant, where four VVER-440 units are currently in operation at the site, which is in Vysočina Region.

IAEA helps share operator experience during COVID-19 crisis : Covid-19 - World Nuclear News

IAEA helps share operator experience during COVID-19 crisis : Covid-19 - World Nuclear News

Giant Wind Park Starting Up Is Another Blow to Nuclear Industry - Bloomberg

Giant Wind Park Starting Up Is Another Blow to Nuclear Industry - Bloomberg: A surge in renewable energy output in the Nordic region has sent power prices below the level where some nuclear plants are profitable.

Global Nuclear Power Control Valve Market 2020: In-Depth Industry Analysis on Size, Cost Structure and Prominent Key Players Analysis – Germany English News

Global Nuclear Power Control Valve Market 2020: In-Depth Industry Analysis on Size, Cost Structure and Prominent Key Players Analysis – Germany English News

Bosnia May Seek Arbitration on Croatia Nuclear Waste Dispute | Balkan Insight

Bosnia May Seek Arbitration on Croatia Nuclear Waste Dispute | Balkan Insight: Minister says Bosnia will ramp up its protests after Croatia gives go-ahead for nuclear waste store to be built near Bosnian border.

Big plans in the Baltics - Nuclear Engineering International

Big plans in the Baltics - Nuclear Engineering International

Russian energy firm providing fuel components for Egyptian nuclear reactor | Power Engineering

Russian energy firm providing fuel components for Egyptian nuclear reactor | Power Engineering: The Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority has signed a 10-year contract with Novosibirsk Chemical Concentrates Plant (NCCP), an enterprise of ROSATOM’s TVEL Fuel Company, for the supply of low-enriched nuclear fuel components for the ETRR-2 research reactor. ETRR-2, a research reactor of Argentinian design, is based at the Nuclear Research Center in Inshas, Egypt. It is...

IAEA Steps up Support for Nuclear Facility Operators during COVID-19 Crisis | IAEA

IAEA Steps up Support for Nuclear Facility Operators during COVID-19 Crisis | IAEA: Nuclear facility operators around the world are taking special measures to protect the health of their workforce to ensure continuous operations during the Covid-19 crisis.

Tiny Nuclear Reactors and Journey to Mars | Nuclear Propulsion

Tiny Nuclear Reactors and Journey to Mars | Nuclear Propulsion: A portion of the aerospace industry believes nuclear spaceflight is the key to reaching Mars. Here's how tiny nuclear reactors would help us get there.

PG&E Judge Asks Why He Should Back Victims in Creditor Vote Feud

PG&E Judge Asks Why He Should Back Victims in Creditor Vote Feud: The federal judge overseeing PG&E Corp’s bankruptcy questioned whether he should get involved in a feud over a campaign to influence the vote of 80,000 fire victims on the utility’s reorganization plan.

Coronavirus: Is Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant still open? | San Luis Obispo Tribune

Coronavirus: Is Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant still open? | San Luis Obispo Tribune: The nuclear power plant is one of the largest employers in SLO County.

Staff at Exelon's Ginna nuke plant OK to work longer hours, NRC says (NASDAQ:EXC) | Seeking Alpha

Staff at Exelon's Ginna nuke plant OK to work longer hours, NRC says (NASDAQ:EXC) | Seeking Alpha: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has granted Exelon's (NASDAQ:EXC) request to extend worker shifts at the Ginna nuclear power plant near Rochester, N.Y.,

EDITORIAL: Net-zero emissions doesn’t mean fossil-free | Opinion | fredericksburg.com

EDITORIAL: Net-zero emissions doesn’t mean fossil-free | Opinion | fredericksburg.com: UNDER pressure from environmental groups pushing for renewable energy and the bipartisan 2018 Grid Transformation and Security Act, Virginia’s largest utility has embarked on an ambitious plan to zero-out its

NRC and FEMA Issue Guidance on Postponement of Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercises Due to COVID-19 | Morgan Lewis - Up & Atom - JDSupra

NRC and FEMA Issue Guidance on Postponement of Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercises Due to COVID-19 | Morgan Lewis - Up & Atom - JDSupra: The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and the US Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) issued internal guidance on March 30 regarding...

TVA signs nuclear research MOU with University of Tennessee on advanced SMR technologies | Power Engineering

TVA signs nuclear research MOU with University of Tennessee on advanced SMR technologies | Power Engineering: In its latest move toward potentially embracing next-gen nuclear energy technology, the Tennessee Valley Authority has signed a memorandum of understanding with the state’s largest university to study it together. The University of Tennessee and TVA signed the MOU to evaluate development of advanced nuclear technologies such as small modular reactors. The project, if developed,...

COVID-19: NRC Holds Teleconference on Exemptions for Part 26 Work-Hour Controls | Morgan Lewis - Up & Atom - JDSupra

COVID-19: NRC Holds Teleconference on Exemptions for Part 26 Work-Hour Controls | Morgan Lewis - Up & Atom - JDSupra: As we recently reported, the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is prepared to grant exemptions to the work-hour controls in 10 CFR 26.205(d)(1)-(7) if the coronavirus (COVID-19)...

UniTech Reassures Industry In Unique Crisis - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

UniTech Reassures Industry In Unique Crisis - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers: The latest nuclear news in Nuclear Power Industry about utilities, companies, suppliers in the nuclear energy market.

Bilfinger Lands Key Hinkley Point C Contract - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers

Bilfinger Lands Key Hinkley Point C Contract - News - Nuclear Power News - Nuclear Street - Nuclear Power Plant News, Jobs, and Careers: The latest nuclear news in Nuclear Power Industry about utilities, companies, suppliers in the nuclear energy market.

Mid-term update from NSE

NSE header

April in NSE

Dear Friends,

It has been an unprecedented time at MIT, for the country, and for the world. I'm writing with a mid-semester update about some of the NSE activities in response to the current challenges.

Remote teaching and learning has evolved smoothly, including our lab class. Students were recently sent a kit so that they could practice with circuit design while away from campus, and our online MOOC, “Nuclear Energy: Science, System and Society”, has nearly 7,000 students enrolled.

Most research has efficiently moved off-campus. Several faculty have even developed remote experiments, which can be manipulated and analyzed by groups of UROPs, grad students and postdocs without the need to come to campus. And we’ve held one successful PhD defense remotely — congratulations Jimmy Lee! — and look forward to more in the weeks to come. Yesterday President Reif hosted a virtual MIT Town Hall with leaders from around the Institute. They discussed MIT's has responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and Institute-wide planning for upcoming months.

This year, our Graduate Research Expo is virtual — which means that you can visit from anywhere in the world! You'll be able to email questions and comments.The website is available for viewing from April 6 through May 15. I hope that you will take advantage of this opportunity to visit and engage with our students.

NSE remains dedicated to our mission, and we have a wonderful team working hard to keep the department running smoothly, and serving the MIT and local communities. I am very grateful and proud to be a part of this team.

I hope you are all keeping safe and well.

Warmest regards,
Anne 

 
Visit the 2020 NSE NSE Graduate Research Expo



Copyright © 2020, Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering, MIT,
All rights reserved.

Visit our website

In a huge shift because of coronavirus, most doctors now ‘seeing’ patients by phone or video - The Boston Globe

In a huge shift because of coronavirus, most doctors now ‘seeing’ patients by phone or video - The Boston Globe: Some physicians and health regulators say the shift to online medicine could have long-lasting effects.

Five coronavirus deaths at Newton assisted living facility; 36 residents and 10 staff infected - The Boston Globe

Five coronavirus deaths at Newton assisted living facility; 36 residents and 10 staff infected - The Boston Globe: Residents of The Falls at Cordingly Dam and their families were notified by Benchmark Senior Living that as of Monday five residents have died as a result of complications from COVID-19. An additional 41 residents and 10 workers have tested positive for the virus.

Coronavirus cases surge at Boston Medical Center; nearly half are related to pandemic - The Boston Globe

Coronavirus cases surge at Boston Medical Center; nearly half are related to pandemic - The Boston Globe: Surge in coronavirus admissions at Boston Medical Center strained its ICU units to capacity this past weekend. Some ambulances were turned away because the ICU was full.

What you need to know today about the virus outbreak - The Boston Globe

What you need to know today about the virus outbreak - The Boston Globe

Massachusetts to launch first US trial of Japanese coronavirus drug - The Boston Globe

Massachusetts to launch first US trial of Japanese coronavirus drug - The Boston Globe: Three Massachusetts hospitals have received approval to launch the first US clinical trial of a Japanese flu drug that could be used to treat COVID-19, according to one doctor involved in the effort.

Who gets a ventilator? New gut-wrenching state guidelines issued on rationing equipment - The Boston Globe

Who gets a ventilator? New gut-wrenching state guidelines issued on rationing equipment - The Boston Globe: The guidance suggests assigning patients a priority score that gives preference to healthier patients who have a greater chance of surviving, as well as medical personnel. In the event of tie scores, younger patients are given priority.

Who gets a ventilator? New gut-wrenching state guidelines issued on rationing equipment - The Boston Globe

Who gets a ventilator? New gut-wrenching state guidelines issued on rationing equipment - The Boston Globe: The guidance suggests assigning patients a priority score that gives preference to healthier patients who have a greater chance of surviving, as well as medical personnel. In the event of tie scores, younger patients are given priority.

Navarro left a trail of political wreckage in California - POLITICO

Navarro left a trail of political wreckage in California - POLITICO: As a candidate, the Trump trade adviser feuding with Fauci was known for his combative ways.

PG&E bankruptcy contingency plan approved, but fire lawyers remain concerned about payouts

 

PG&E bankruptcy contingency plan approved, but fire lawyers remain concerned about payouts


https://www.utilitydive.com/news/pge-bankruptcy-contingency-plan-approved-but-fire-lawyers-remain-concerne/575665/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Issue:%202020-04-08%20Utility%20Dive%20Newsletter%20%5Bissue:26662%5D&utm_term=Utility%20Dive

NextEra mulls bid for Evergy amid market volatility, may face competing offers from AEP, Ameren: Report

 

NextEra mulls bid for Evergy amid market volatility, may face competing offers from AEP, Ameren: Report


https://www.utilitydive.com/news/nextera-mulls-bid-for-evergy-amid-market-volatility-may-face-competing-off/575675/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Issue:%202020-04-08%20Utility%20Dive%20Newsletter%20%5Bissue:26662%5D&utm_term=Utility%20Dive

Utilities move to delay rate case proceedings during pandemic | Utility Dive

Utilities move to delay rate case proceedings during pandemic | Utility Dive: Utility industry news and analysis for energy professionals.

EU Electricity Group Calls For Flexibility To Ensure Plants Are Staffed :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency

EU Electricity Group Calls For Flexibility To Ensure Plants Are Staffed :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency: National governments and EU institutions should consider greater flexibility to allow specialised personnel to travel for inspection, operation and maintenance of critical installations and ensure that control centres and plants remain sufficiently staffed, a report on Europe’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic has said.



The report, published by electricity industry group Eurelectric, says energy companies needs support to tackle the financial pressure resulting from government decisions to postpone the payment of invoices.



It says European investment plans and economic recovery programmes should be fully compatible with EU climate objectives and support electrification and decarbonisation of the EU economy by targeting investment in technologies critical for the energy transition.

Uranium Production Expected To Fall By 4,000 Tonnes :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency

Uranium Production Expected To Fall By 4,000 Tonnes :: The Independent Global Nuclear News Agency: State uranium company Kazatomprom expects that the volume of uranium production in Kazakhstan in 2020 will decrease by no more than 4,000 tonnes, although the exact effect of the coronavirus pandemic remains difficult to assess.



The company’s original estimate production estimate for 2020 was production of 22,750 to 22,800 tonnes of uranium on a 100% basis.



The company said the fall in production is not expected to affect its obligations for 2020 in terms of sales volumes. It said it has told all its customers that contractual obligations will be fulfilled in full.

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Nearly 400 virus deaths in Washington state

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Sandia National Laboratories opens patents for free commercial license, responding to COVID-19 - Albuquerque Business First: The move could save entrepreneurs thousands in initial costs.

Coronavirus: Is Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant still open? | San Luis Obispo Tribune

Coronavirus: Is Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant still open? | San Luis Obispo Tribune: The nuclear power plant is one of the largest employers in SLO County.

Two additional coronavirus cases confirmed at Energy Department headquarters | Coronavirus | aikenstandard.com

Two additional coronavirus cases confirmed at Energy Department headquarters | Coronavirus | aikenstandard.com: Another two workers at the U.S. Department of Energy's headquarters in Washington, D.C., have tested positive for COVID-19, the illness caused by the highly contagious novel coronavirus.

PG&E bankruptcy judge rejects attempt to slow down fire victim vote


PG&E bankruptcy judge rejects attempt to slow down fire victim vote


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Turn Back the Clock Virtual tour


April 8, 2020
Virtual Exhibit Preview

One of the most provocative symbols of the 20th century—the Doomsday Clock—inspires a virtual exhibit illustrating why it matters as much today as it ever has in its nearly 75 year history. Take the tour now!
Recently set at just 100 seconds to midnight, the Doomsday Clock reflects the urgency of man-made threats confronting humanity: nuclear risk, climate change, and disruptive technologies. Turn Back the Clock, a new virtual tour created by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, takes you through seven decades of history—from the dawn of the nuclear age to the significant global challenges we face today.
Turn Back the Clock was on exhibit for two years at Chicago’s renowned Museum of Science and Industry. You can now access this virtual tour from the comfort of your home—all you need is a computer. The tour allows you to zoom in and out of photo and video displays, enlarge panels and artifacts, and even turn around to “walk” back to previously-viewed sections of the exhibit.
You can:
  • Explore how the Clock has evolved over time to include man-made risks to humanity like nuclear weapons, climate change, and disruptive technology.
  • Deepen your understanding of the urgent dialogue needed among scientists, policy makers, and the public.
  • Discover your place in the history of the Clock by engaging with these issues and learning what you can do to make a difference.
Take the tour, and see if you can find:
  • 17 original artifacts from the dawn of the nuclear era from both the scientific world and popular culture;
  • 8 reproduction letters and papers (including 2 eyewitness sketches of the Trinity Test);
  • 6 questions to gauge opinions on issues of nuclear security and climate change;
  • 3 oral histories with Manhattan Project scientists and engineers.
  • The Doomsday Clock’s time changes, represented in an interactive digital timeline;
  • And much more!
Turn Back the Clock calls upon all of us—scientists, policy makers, and ordinary citizens—to take part in the dialogue and debate the important science and technology issues that have great impact on our lives. Start your journey—find the elements of the exhibit described above and let us know what you will you do to move the Doomsday Clock away from midnight.