Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire - Major Energy and Environmental News and Commentary affecting the Nuclear Industry. Nuclear Activities
Saturday, June 3, 2023
Germany tells Zelensky NATO can’t consider Ukrainian membership now — RT World News
Germany tells Zelensky NATO can’t consider Ukrainian membership now — RT World News: Ukraine will not be able to join NATO while the conflict with Russia continues, top German diplomat Annalena Baerbock says
US to Offer to Keep Nuclear Arms Limits Until 2026 If Russia Reciprocates – Reports
US to Offer to Keep Nuclear Arms Limits Until 2026 If Russia Reciprocates – Reports: The United States on Friday is set to offer to continue complying with the nuclear arms limits under the New START Treaty until 2026 if Russia reciprocates, British news agency reported, citing two senior administration officials.
Friday, June 2, 2023
INL’s Marvel Micro Reactor Prepares for Testing | Neutron Bytes
INL’s Marvel Micro Reactor Prepares for Testing | Neutron Bytes: INL’s Marvel Micro Reactor Prepares for Testing Nuclear Startup Wants to Build a Commercial Version of Marvel China Halts Its Floating Nuclear Power Plan DOE Announces $50 Million for a Miles…
Debt limit deal gives Republicans a win on energy. Is there still room for a bipartisan agreement? | The Hill
Debt limit deal gives Republicans a win on energy. Is there still room for a bipartisan agreement? | The Hill: Democrats are giving up an energy bargaining chip in the debt limit deal, raising questions about whether they will be able to accomplish high-priority electricity reforms. For months, Democrats and Republicans have been working on a bipartisan package to speed up permitting for energy projects that could include provisions that both sides want. But in…
NRC to Regulate Fusion Energy Systems Using Existing Nuclear Materials Licensing Framework – Up & Atom | Morgan Lewis
NRC to Regulate Fusion Energy Systems Using Existing Nuclear Materials Licensing Framework – Up & Atom | Morgan Lewis: The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has set a course to create a regulatory framework for fusion energy systems that builds on NRC’s existing nuclear materials licensing process. As we have previously reported, NRC had considered three options for regulating nuclear fusion. NRC chose to work from the existing process for licensing the use of byproduct materials contained in 10 CFR Part 30, which requires only a limited-scope rulemaking.
PG&E's plan to spin off 5.6 GW ahead of possible stake sale OK'd by FERC (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha
PG&E's plan to spin off 5.6 GW ahead of possible stake sale OK'd by FERC (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha: The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approved PG&E's (PCG) proposal to transfer 5.6 GW of non-nuclear generating assets to a new subsidiary ahead of the sale of a 49.9% stake.
“We have to get this right": GE Hitachi's Sean Sexstone on new nuclear
“We have to get this right": GE Hitachi's Sean Sexstone on new nuclear: GE Hitachi believes its BWRX-300 can become the cheapest, quickest and lowest-risk small modular reactor to market.
Top nuclear regulatory official visits Diablo Canyon Power Plant
Top nuclear regulatory official visits Diablo Canyon Power Plant: The Chair of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission toured Diablo Canyon to look at safety measures and talk with employees at all levels of the plant.
US awards USD46 million funding, aiming for fusion pilot plant : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News
US awards USD46 million funding, aiming for fusion pilot plant : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News: The Department of Energy is sharing USD46 million funding from the Milestone-based Fusion Development Program among eight companies, with the aim that "within five to 10 years" they "will resolve scientific and technological challenges to create designs for a fusion pilot plant".
Concreting of Akkuyu 1's inner containment dome completed : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News
Concreting of Akkuyu 1's inner containment dome completed : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News: The completion of concreting of the inner containment dome at Akkuyu 1 is seen as a key construction moment at Turkey's first nuclear power plant.
Westinghouse, Astrobotic team up on space projects : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News
Westinghouse, Astrobotic team up on space projects : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News: Westinghouse Electric Company and lunar landers and rovers developer Astrobotic have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore collaboration on space technology programmes for NASA and the US Department of Defense.
Record level of US support for nuclear continues : Nuclear Policies - World Nuclear News
Record level of US support for nuclear continues : Nuclear Policies - World Nuclear News: US public support for nuclear energy has remained at a record high level for the third consecutive year, according to the latest survey by Bisconti Research Inc. The results show three quarters of the public favour nuclear energy, and about seven in ten support the construction of more nuclear power plants.
Dutch regulator approves multi-functional storage facility : Waste & Recycling - World Nuclear News
Dutch regulator approves multi-functional storage facility : Waste & Recycling - World Nuclear News: The Authority for Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection has granted the final permit to the Central Organisation for Radioactive Waste for the construction of a new multi-functional storage building for low and intermediate-level waste at its site in Nieuwdorp, in the municipality of Borssele, the Netherlands.
NRG exits nuclear with sale of South Texas Project stake : Corporate - World Nuclear News
NRG exits nuclear with sale of South Texas Project stake : Corporate - World Nuclear News: Constellation Energy has agreed to purchase NRG Energy's 44% stake in the South Texas Project for USD1.75 billion. The plant - located about 90 miles southwest of Houston - comprises two 1280 MWe pressurised water reactors which began providing electricity in 1988 and 1989, respectively.
Pakistan’s always-troubled democracy is on the brink once again
Pakistan’s always-troubled democracy is on the brink once again: Pakistan’s ongoing political crisis has reached a crescendo this month with former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s arrest and its fallout. The contours of the conflict are clear: it is Khan versus Pakistan’s military establishment. And the gloves are off.
Thursday, June 1, 2023
Feasibility study: Advanced nuclear technology is a potential option to achieve zero carbon emissions for Purdue University - Purdue University News
Feasibility study: Advanced nuclear technology is a potential option to achieve zero carbon emissions for Purdue University - Purdue University News: Purdue University and Duke Energy released an interim report today (May 10) that describes small modular reactors as one of the most promising emerging technologies and a potential, carbon-free option that should be further explored to help meet the future, long-term power needs of Purdue University.
Georgia Power on Twitter: "Vogtle Unit 3 just achieved 100% power for the FIRST TIME! 🎉The final series of testing remains before Vogtle becomes the first newly constructed nuclear unit in the U.S. to enter service in over 30 years! 🙌 Stay tuned for more updates! #VogtleUnit3 #NuclearEnergy… https://t.co/D2tQ6h6aOZ" / Twitter
Debt Ceiling Deal Puts No Limits on Ukraine Aid - News From Antiwar.com
Debt Ceiling Deal Puts No Limits on Ukraine Aid - News From Antiwar.com: Debt Ceiling Deal Puts No Limits on Ukraine Aid
Emergency spending that has been used to arm Ukraine is exempt and it could also be used to arm Taiwan
PG&E agrees to $50 million settlement to drop criminal charges related to deadly 2020 Zogg Fire, district attorney says | CNN
PG&E agrees to $50 million settlement to drop criminal charges related to deadly 2020 Zogg Fire, district attorney says | CNN: The Shasta County District Attorney’s Office dropped criminal charges against Pacific Gas and Electric Company in relation to the deadly 2020 Zogg Fire in California after the company agreed to pay $50 million and to follow certain commitments, the district attorney’s office announced in a news conference Wednesday.
NRG Energy to Sell Texas Nuclear Plant Stake to Constellation in $1.75B Power Move
NRG Energy to Sell Texas Nuclear Plant Stake to Constellation in $1.75B Power Move: Constellation Energy, the largest nuclear generator in the U.S., will take over NRG Energy’s 44% ownership stake in the 2.6-GW South Texas Project
Power June 2023
Power June 2023: Experience our interactive, profoundly engaging digital publication!
US announces $46 million in funds to eight nuclear fusion companies | Reuters
US announces $46 million in funds to eight nuclear fusion companies | Reuters: Eight U.S. companies developing nuclear fusion energy will receive $46 million in taxpayer funding to pursue pilot plants attempting to generate power from the process that fuels the sun and stars, the Department of Energy said on Wednesday.
What we now know about the 2023 El Niño - Vox
What we now know about the 2023 El Niño - Vox: How warm water in the Pacific shapes storms, droughts, and record heat around the world.
Nuclear power has benefit in fighting global warming - ASME
Nuclear power has benefit in fighting global warming - ASME: Achieving carbon reduction goals was always going to be a heavy lift, even with the rapid cost reductions in building wind and solar systems. Does nuclear power have a role to play? A report from the federal Pacific Northwest National Laboratory says it does, and quantifies its benefits under multiple scenareos.
South Korea experts say more study needed on Japan's nuclear water plan | Reuters
South Korea experts say more study needed on Japan's nuclear water plan | Reuters: South Korean nuclear safety experts who visited Japan's wrecked Fukushima nuclear power plant said on Wednesday that detailed analysis was needed to verify Japan's plan to release tonnes of contaminated water from it into the sea.
Japan Allows Nuclear Plants To Operate Beyond 60 Years | Barron's
Japan Allows Nuclear Plants To Operate Beyond 60 Years | Barron's: Japan on Wednesday passed a law allowing nuclear reactors to operate beyond 60 years, as it tries to reinvigorate the sector to meet energy challenges and climate targets.
Nuclear suppliers quote $1 billion for 160-MW small modular reactor - BusinessWorld Online
Nuclear suppliers quote $1 billion for 160-MW small modular reactor - BusinessWorld Online: NUCLEAR reactor supplier Holtec International and partner Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co., Ltd. (Hyundai E&C), said they expect small modular reactors of up to 160 megawatts to cost $1 billion each.
Innovation Fuels Nuclear Energy’s Revival, But Challenges Remain
Innovation Fuels Nuclear Energy’s Revival, But Challenges Remain: Breakthrough technologies, like thorium-based reactors, and SMRs, are gaining momentum due to their cost-effectiveness, reduced waste generation, and flexible deployment.
Wednesday, May 31, 2023
Senate panel advances nuclear regulatory overhaul
Senate panel advances nuclear regulatory overhaul: The bipartisan bill that could play into permitting talks.
PG&E says criminal charges dismissed in deadly 2020 wildfire (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha
PG&E says criminal charges dismissed in deadly 2020 wildfire (NYSE:PCG) | Seeking Alpha: PG&E (PCG) said it reached a settlement with the Shasta County District Attorney that will dismiss criminal charges arising from the 2020 Zogg Fire while the utility pays $50M in penalties.
IAEA finds Fukushima water sampling meets requirements : Regulation & Safety - World Nuclear News
IAEA finds Fukushima water sampling meets requirements : Regulation & Safety - World Nuclear News: Tokyo Electric Power Company has demonstrated its capabilities for accurate and precise measurements of the radionuclides present in the treated water stored at the Fukushima Daiichi site, according to an International Atomic Energy Agency report.
Grossi says Zaporizhzhia principles 'step in right direction' : Regulation & Safety - World Nuclear News
Grossi says Zaporizhzhia principles 'step in right direction' : Regulation & Safety - World Nuclear News: International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi has outlined to the UN Security Council five principles - "the bare minimum" - to help protect Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
Ontario-based SMR supply chain partnership formed : Corporate - World Nuclear News
Ontario-based SMR supply chain partnership formed : Corporate - World Nuclear News: Construction company Aecon has formed a partnership with fabricator and constructor ES Fox Limited to jointly manufacture steel components offsite for Canada's first grid-scale small modular reactor at Ontario Power Generation's Darlington site.
Article to Prevent Holtec Wastewater Discharge Included in Senate Budget - CapeCod.com
Article to Prevent Holtec Wastewater Discharge Included in Senate Budget - CapeCod.com: PLYMOUTH – Legislative action struck down by former Governor Charlie Baker that would launch a study of the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station decommissioning process is back on the table, accordi…
New, promising way to treat cancer with radiation from inside out - WTOP News
New, promising way to treat cancer with radiation from inside out - WTOP News: When we hear “radiation” as a method of treating cancer, we think external beam radiation therapy. Radiopharmaceutical treatment targets cancer from the inside.
US urged not to use bomb-grade uranium in nuclear power experiment | Reuters
US urged not to use bomb-grade uranium in nuclear power experiment | Reuters: Former US State Department and nuclear regulatory officials said its use could encourage such tests in other countries.
Michigan lawmakers pledge ‘full support’ for reopening Palisades nuclear plant | Bridge Michigan
Michigan lawmakers pledge ‘full support’ for reopening Palisades nuclear plant | Bridge Michigan: In addition to a big federal loan, the company that owns the closed plant wants $300 million from Michigan taxpayers to reopen. Some bipartisan legislators back the idea.
“Talk of War with China is Total Insanity—Everybody’s Finished if it Takes Place,” Says Noam Chomsky | CovertAction Magazine
“Talk of War with China is Total Insanity—Everybody’s Finished if it Takes Place,” Says Noam Chomsky | CovertAction Magazine: Noam Chomsky [Source: cultureainquieta.com] “Major world powers need to shift from confrontation to accommodation soon; otherwise, we’ll go off the precipice together.” The renowned linguist and po…
Deep Borehole Demonstration Center Announced with Launch Executive Director Ted Garrish - Deep Isolation
Deep Borehole Demonstration Center Announced with Launch Executive Director Ted Garrish - Deep Isolation: A new Deep Borehole Demonstration Center is a nonprofit organization focusing on advancing disposal technologies for nuclear waste.
Tuesday, May 30, 2023
Here’s Why Oil Flows Can Only Be Redirected, Not Stopped | OilPrice.com
Here’s Why Oil Flows Can Only Be Redirected, Not Stopped | OilPrice.com: The global oil markets have proved resilient in the face of tough sanctions on Russian crude, and despite some disruptions, oil continues to flow onto the market
US urged not to use bomb-grade uranium in nuclear power experiment | Financial Post
US urged not to use bomb-grade uranium in nuclear power experiment | Financial Post: WASHINGTON — Former U.S. State Department and nuclear regulatory officials on Tuesday urged the U.S. Energy Department to reconsider a plan to use bomb-grade…
IAEA Code of Conduct: 20 Years of Progress in Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources | IAEA
IAEA Code of Conduct: 20 Years of Progress in Safety and Security of Radioactive Sources | IAEA: More than 270 legal and technical experts from 128 countries and four international organizations have convened this week in Vienna, Austria, to review progress achieved in the safety and security of radioactive sources and address areas in need of improvement.
NRC advisory panel recommends approval of SMR permit at Oak Ridge - ExchangeMonitor
NRC advisory panel recommends approval of SMR permit at Oak Ridge - ExchangeMonitor: ExchangeMonitor covers nuclear weapons, waste management, nuclear cleanup, international intelligence as well as carbon capture and storage.
Collaborations announced for fusion projects : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News
Collaborations announced for fusion projects : New Nuclear - World Nuclear News: General Atomics of the USA and Tokamak Energy of the UK have agreed to collaborate in the area of high temperature superconducting technology for fusion energy and other industry applications. Meanwhile, Germany's Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics will work with Proxima Fusion to further develop the stellarator concept.
KCC approves power transmission line from Wolf Creek to southwest Missouri | KVOE
KCC approves power transmission line from Wolf Creek to southwest Missouri | KVOE: An electric transmission line project connecting the Wolf Creek nuclear generating station to a substation in ...
Third nuclear reactor reaches 100% power output at Georgia's Plant Vogtle | AP News
Third nuclear reactor reaches 100% power output at Georgia's Plant Vogtle | AP News: ATLANTA (AP) — A new reactor at a nuclear power plant in Georgia has reached its full power output for the first time and is scheduled to enter commercial operation within the next month. Georgia Power Co.
Green Energy and Warnings of Summer Blackouts | RealClearPolicy
Green Energy and Warnings of Summer Blackouts | RealClearPolicy: If you want to keep the lights on, it might be a good time to shop for a generator.
Monday, May 29, 2023
US Flaunts Massive Ordnance Penetrator Bomb That Can 'Wipe Out' Iran's Nuclear Facilities
US Flaunts Massive Ordnance Penetrator Bomb That Can 'Wipe Out' Iran's Nuclear Facilities: US released images of the GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator bunker buster, or MOP, at the Whiteman US Air Force Base that can hit Iran
Belarus official: West left us no choice but to deploy nuclear arms - The Jerusalem Post
Belarus official: West left us no choice but to deploy nuclear arms - The Jerusalem Post: The United States has denounced the prospective deployment of nuclear weapons in Belarus but says its stance on the use of such weapons has not been altered.
Nuclear fusion and the future of clean energy
Nuclear fusion and the future of clean energy: Science X Science News Wire : Nuclear fusion and the future of clean energy -- a press release is provided to you ìas isî with little or no review from Science X staff.
Advanced Reactors / NRC Committee Recommends Approval Of Kairos Power Construction Permit :: NucNet | The Independent Nuclear News Agency
Advanced Reactors / NRC Committee Recommends Approval Of Kairos Power Construction Permit :: NucNet | The Independent Nuclear News Agency: US company plans to operate demonstration plant in 2026