New announcement EDF NNB to hold nuclear infosec conference

You’ll be familiar with John Clarke’s NDA Information Governance Strategy and the Cyber Essentials scheme from the recent NDA supply chain event. I’d say it’s a pretty good move given the number of cyber-attacks on nuclear intellectual property over the past twelve months. Well, I’ve teamed up with the NDA and EDF Energy to help combat these issues at the Nuclear Knowledge Management and Cyber Security Conference (17-18 June 2015, Cardiff): http://bit.ly/1zklbC1 Given that McLaren Software are involved in the area I thought it might be of interest? With the below names providing major updates: • Rakesh Burgul – Information Security Assurance Manager – NDA • Robert Orr – Head of Information and Cyber Security – ONR • George Borlodan – Pre-Operations Director – EDF NNB • John Day – Head of Knowledge Management and Intellectual Property – Sellafield • Bob Radford – Knowledge and Information Lead – Magnox • Richard Bach – Assistant Director Cyber Security – Dept. Business, Innovation and Skills Kind regards, Mike Michael Vickery Senior Project Manager Nuclear Energy Insider mvickery@nuclearenergyinsider.com +44 (0) 207 375 7177

Ruijin Plans to Build the World’s First Commercial Fourth-Generation Reactor

Ruijin Plans to Build the World’s First Commercial Fourth-Generation Reactor

On April 22th, during the 11th China International Nuclear Power Industry Exhibition, China Nuclear Engineering Group publicised the launch of Ruijin 600 mw commercial high temperature gas cooled reactor project in Jiangxi province. The high temperature gas cooled reactor is featured the fourth-generation nuclear power system for the high temperature of the reactor core (Generally can reach 850-1000 ℃ or above) and use helium as coolant of the primary circuit.

Source: http://news.bjx.com.cn/html/20150424/611709.shtml

江西瑞金欲建全球首座商用第四代反应堆

news.bjx.com.cn•北极星核电网讯:中国自主三代核电“ 华龙一号”捷报频传之际，自主四代 核电技术 高温气冷堆已开始向商业化推广发起冲刺。 澎湃新闻

NRC Blog Update: Plenty of Progress to Report on Fukushima-related Enhancements

Plenty of Progress to Report on Fukushima-related Enhancements

1 Comment Posted by Moderator on April 28, 2015

Scott Burnell
Public Affairs Officer
The NRC’s technical staff, industry executives and a public interest group will brief the Commissioners Thursday on the agency’s efforts to implement what we’ve learned from the Fukushima nuclear accident. The bottom line is the NRC is ahead of schedule on several fronts.
Some of the best news involves U.S. reactors meeting requirements from two of the NRC’s Fukushima-related Orders issued in March 2012. By the end of this spring, almost a quarter of the U.S. fleet will comply with the Mitigation Strategies and Spent Fuel Pool Instrumentation Orders. We expect more than half the fleet will meet those Orders by the end of December, which is a full year before the Orders’ deadline.
Every U.S. reactor will comply with the instrumentation requirements by the December 2016 deadline. Every reactor will also comply by that time with a major Mitigation Strategies requirement – additional, well-protected onsite portable equipment to support key safety measures if an extreme event disables a plant’s installed systems. The U.S. industry has already set up two response centers with even more equipment that can be transported to any U.S. reactor within 24 hours. By the time we say good-bye to 2016, almost every reactor will also have made all modifications needed to use those portable systems. In preparing to meet the deadlines, U.S. reactors have already enhanced their ability to keep the public safe.
About a dozen plants will have made all those modifications except changes closely related to the third Order, which requires Hardened Vents for reactors with designs similar to those at Fukushima. These vents would safely relieve pressure in an emergency and help other systems pump cooling water into the core. All the reactors subject to the Order have completed plans for the first set of vent enhancements or installation of new vents.
The NRC staff finished reviewing these plans earlier this month, ahead of schedule, and issued written evaluations to each plant. The agency is also about ready to issue guidance on how these plants can meet the second part of the Order, which involves an additional vent or other methods to protect the structure surrounding the reactor.
The staff’s presentation will also cover topics including revising the NRC’s rules in these areas, as well as the ongoing effort to re-evaluate flooding hazards for all U.S. nuclear power plants. The NRC’s regional offices will provide their perspective on the overall implementation effort’s progress.

Related

Recapping a Year’s Worth of Fukushima-Related WorkIn "Operating Reactors"

Two years after Fukushima: Enhancements to U.S. Nuclear Plants ContinueIn "Operating Reactors"

New Web Pages Illustrate NRC’s Post-Fukushima ActivitiesIn "Operating Reactors"

Emergency Preparedness and Response, Operating Reactors Fukushima, mitigation strategies, NRC, NRC. nuclear power, nuclear power plant

← Droning On Over Nuclear Power Plants

China Nuclear Power Engineering Selects Siemens to Enhance Design Efficiency

China Nuclear Power Engineering Selects Siemens to Enhance Design Efficiency

http://www.plm.automation.siemens.com/en_us/about_us/newsroom/press/press_release.cfm?Component=237420&ComponentTemplate=822

Iran aims to use NPT conference to renew international pressure on Israel

Jerusalem to attend non-proliferation meet for first time in 20 years; Iran FM at opening of conference: 'Israel is the single [worst] violator of this international regime [the NPT].'

http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/.premium-1.653836

Egypt FM calls for a nuclear-weapon-free Middle East Ahram Online

Egypt FM calls for a nuclear-weapon-free Middle East Ahram Online - ‎
 Egypt's foreign minister Sameh Shoukri on Monday called on Middle East countries to hold a special conference to create a region free of nuclear weapons. The minister is currently attending the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty review conference at United ...

http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/128860/Egypt/Politics-/Egypt-FM-calls-for-a-nuclearweaponfree-Middle-East.aspx

3 Flaws in Iran Nuclear Framework That Could Undermine a Final Deal

http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2015/04/28/3-flaws-in-iran-nuclear-framework-that-could-undermine-a-final-deal/

World Austria, backed by 159 nations, calls for ban on nuclear weapons

• World

Austria, backed by 159 nations, calls for ban on nuclear weapons

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/world/austria-backed-by-159-na/1813568.html

Nuclear Power is Russia's New Weapon of Choice

http://www.newsweek.com/2015/05/01/nuclear-power-russias-new-weapon-choice-326198.html

US NRC Blog Update: Plenty of Progress to Report on Fukushima-related Enhancements by Moderator

Plenty of Progress to Report on Fukushima-related Enhancements by Moderator Scott Burnell Public Affairs Officer The NRC’s technical staff, industry executives and a public interest group will brief the Commissioners Thursday on the agency’s efforts to implement what we’ve learned from the Fukushima nuclear accident. The bottom line is the NRC is ahead of schedule on several fronts. Some of the best news involves U.S. reactors meeting requirements from two of the NRC’s Fukushima-related Orders issued in March 2012. By the end of this spring, almost a quarter of the U.S. fleet will comply with the Mitigation Strategies and Spent Fuel Pool Instrumentation Orders. We expect more than half the fleet will meet those Orders by the end of December, which is a full year before the Orders’ deadline. Every U.S. reactor will comply with the instrumentation requirements by the December 2016 deadline. Every reactor will also comply by that time with a major Mitigation Strategies requirement – additional, well-protected onsite portable equipment to support key safety measures if an extreme event disables a plant’s installed systems. The U.S. industry has already set up two response centers with even more equipment that can be transported to any U.S. reactor within 24 hours. By the time we say good-bye to 2016, almost every reactor will also have made all modifications needed to use those portable systems. In preparing to meet the deadlines, U.S. reactors have already enhanced their ability to keep the public safe. About a dozen plants will have made all those modifications except changes closely related to the third Order, which requires Hardened Vents for reactors with designs similar to those at Fukushima. These vents would safely relieve pressure in an emergency and help other systems pump cooling water into the core. All the reactors subject to the Order have completed plans for the first set of vent enhancements or installation of new vents. The NRC staff finished reviewing these plans earlier this month, ahead of schedule, and issued written evaluations to each plant. The agency is also about ready to issue guidance on how these plants can meet the second part of the Order, which involves an additional vent or other methods to protect the structure surrounding the reactor. The staff’s presentation will also cover topics including revising the NRC’s rules in these areas, as well as the ongoing effort to re-evaluate flooding hazards for all U.S. nuclear power plants. The NRC’s regional offices will provide their perspective on the overall implementation effort’s progress. Moderator | April 28, 2015 at 12:51 pm | Tags: Fukushima, mitigation strategies, NRC, NRC. nuclear power, nuclear power plant | Categories: Emergency Preparedness and Response, Operating Reactors | URL: http://wp.me/p1fSSY-1CT Comment    See all comments    Like

EOn to spin off nuclear assets to Uniper

EOn to spin off nuclear assets to Uniper
Uniper will be the name of the non-renewable company to spin off from EOn. The name means 'Unique Performance' and the company will own stakes in 17 operating reactors across Germany and Sweden.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/C-EOn-to-spin-off-nuclear-assets-to-Uniper-2804151.html

Shin Wolsong 2 completes tests at full power

Shin Wolsong 2 completes tests at full power
The second unit of the Shin Wolsong plant has successfully completed a test run at 100% output, plant owner Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power announced today. The reactor is set to enter commercial operation later this year.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-Shin-Wolsong-2-completes-tests-at-full-power-2804155.html

Vattenfall opts for early closure of Ringhals units

Vattenfall opts for early closure of Ringhals units
Declining profitability and increased costs have forced Swedish utility Vattenfall to decide to close units 1 and 2 of the Ringhals nuclear power plant earlier than previously planned. The decision would see the units shut between 2018 and 2020, rather than around 2025.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/C-Vattenfall-opts-for-early-closure-of-Ringhals-units-2804154.html

Moniz sees progress, but not enough, in energy landscape

http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2015/04/26/loveless-dept-energy-doe-qer-moniz/26360393/

The Forgotten History of Small Nuclear Reactors

Economics killed small nuclear power plants in the past—and probably will keep doing so

http://spectrum.ieee.org/energy/nuclear/the-forgotten-history-of-small-nuclear-reactors

How to Combat Distrust of Science The surprising power of the psychology of consensus

How to Combat Distrust of Science

The surprising power of the psychology of consensus

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-to-combat-distrust-of-science/

Interview: Current Status of Indian Point Nuclear Plant Relicensing

http://theenergycollective.com/jared-anderson/2220926/exclusive-interview-current-status-indian-point-nuclear-plant-relicensing

Health Risks From Fukushima Disaster Greatly Exaggerated

http://oilprice.com/Alternative-Energy/Nuclear-Power/Health-Risks-From-Fukushima-Disaster-Greatly-Exaggerated.html

Future Of Nuclear Industry Takes Yet Another Hit

http://oilprice.com/Alternative-Energy/Nuclear-Power/Future-Of-Nuclear-Industry-Takes-Yet-Another-Hit.html

NRC Issues Final Environmental Impact Statement for Davis - Besse Nuclear Power Plant License Renewal

NRC Issues Final Environmental Impact Statement for

Davis

-

Besse

Nuclear Power Plant License Renewal
http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/news/2015/15-028.pdf

Rosatom feels no direct impact from sanctions, says Kirienko

http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/C-Rosatom-feels-no-direct-impact-from-sanctions-says-Kirienko-28041501.html

Renewables vs. Nuclear: Do We Need More Nuclear Power?

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/blog/post/2015/04/renewables-vs-nuclear-do-we-need-more-nuclear-power?cmpid=rss

Iran leads calls for Israel to give up nuclear weapons

Iran leads calls for Israel to give up nuclear weapons
United Nations, United States (AFP) Apr 27, 2015 - Iran on Monday led calls by non-aligned nations for Israel to give up its nuclear weapons as a major conference got underway on advancing prospects for a nuclear-free world. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif addressed the conference on the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) ahead of a meeting with US Secretary of State John Kerry on the landmark nuclear deal reached this mo ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Iran_leads_calls_for_Israel_to_give_up_nuclear_weapons_999.html

Soil Moisture Mission Produces First Global Maps

Soil Moisture Mission Produces First Global Maps
Pasadena CA (JPL) Apr 24, 2015 - With its antenna now spinning at full speed, NASA's new Soil Moisture Active Passive (SMAP) observatory has successfully re-tested its science instruments and generated its first global maps, a key step to beginning routine science operations next month. SMAP launched Jan. 31 on a minimum three-year mission to map global soil moisture and detect whether soils are frozen or thawed. The miss ... morehttp://www.terradaily.com/reports/Soil_Moisture_Mission_Produces_First_Global_Maps_999.html

Map shows content and origins of US geologic basement

Map shows content and origins of US geologic basement
Boulder CO (SPX) Apr 28, 2015 - A map showing the many different pieces of Earth's crust that comprise the nation's geologic basement is now available from the U.S. Geological Survey. This is the first map to portray these pieces, from the most ancient to recent, by the events that influenced their composition, starting with their origin. This product provides a picture of the basement for the U.S., including Alaska, tha ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Map_shows_content_and_origins_of_US_geologic_basement_999.html

Officials mark start of build on nation's first offshore wind farm

http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/04/officials-mark-start-of-build-on-nation-s-first-offshore-wind-power-farm.html

Russia to Supply Argentina with Nuclear Fuel

Russia to Supply Argentina with Nuclear Fuel
http://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Russia_to_Supply_Argentina_with_Nuclear_Fuel_999.html

 

Earthquake in Nepal that killed thousands may have an effect on hydroelectric facilities

http://www.hydroworld.com/articles/2015/04/earthquake-in-nepal-that-killed-thousands-may-have-an-affect-on-hydroelectric-facilities.html?cmpid=EnlHydroApril282015

Grand Bargain: Scrap EPA Regulations For Carbon Tax Read More At Investor's Business Daily

Grand Bargain: Scrap EPA Regulations For Carbon Tax

Read More At Investor's Business Daily: http://news.investors.com/042415-749551-carbon-tax-may-be-better-deal-than-epa-climate-mandates.htm#ixzz3YcOqr1j6
Follow us: @IBDinvestors on Twitter | InvestorsBusinessDaily on Facebook

http://news.investors.com/042415-749551-carbon-tax-may-be-better-deal-than-epa-climate-mandates.htm

Vermont Yankee: NRC says no significant impacts to reducing EPZ

Commissions says no significant environmental impacts to Entergy's request

http://www.reformer.com/news/ci_27997147/vermont-yankee-nrc-says-no-significant-impacts-reducing

U.S. New Mexico Lobbying to Be Storage Site for Nuclear Waste

New Mexico Lobbying to Be Storage Site for Nuclear Waste

http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/mexico-lobbying-storage-site-nuclear-waste-30599466

Four aging nuclear reactors officially scrapped

http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/english/news/20150427_34.html

(Update) Nuclear Power Still Cheaper Than Thermal Fuel: Japan Govt

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2015042700909

No Evidence Against Safety Of Inland Nuclear Plants, Says China Industry Group

No Evidence Against Safety Of Inland Nuclear Plants, Says China Industry Group

http://www.nucnet.org/all-the-news/2015/04/28/no-evidence-against-safety-of-inland-nuclear-plants-says-china-industry-group

NuScale wades through NRC regulations as it tries to build 1st SMR

NuScale wades through NRC regulations as it tries to build 1st SMR
https://www.snl.com/Interactivex/article.aspx?CdId=A-32289769-11046

Rethinking the U.S. Surrender on Nuclear Power

Russia and China are racing to profit from an energy source developed—and overregulated—in the West.

http://www.wsj.com/articles/rethinking-the-u-s-surrender-on-nuclear-power-1430176276

DOE nuclear waste disposal proposal met with skepticism

http://www.tri-cityherald.com/2015/04/27/3532516_doe-nuclear-waste-disposal-proposal.html?rh=1

Why NERC thinks the EPA Clean Power Plan could threaten grid reliability

There are 'physcial limitations' on how fast states can build new infrastructure, analysts say

http://www.utilitydive.com/news/why-nerc-thinks-the-epa-clean-power-plan-could-threaten-grid-reliability/390966/

US Nuclear Power Safety: Is the Glass Half Empty or Half Full?

US Nuclear Power Safety: Is the Glass Half Empty or Half Full?

By Roman Kilisek and Jared Anderson

Well, it depends on who you ask, of course. But some suggest the existing US nuclear regulatory framework contains flaws – that in some cases – allow cost to trump safety. There has always been tension between the nuclear industry and the regulators that oversee it. The strongly-held views that permeate discussions around safety, economic

Keep reading →http://breakingenergy.com/2015/04/27/us-nuclear-power-safety-is-the-glass-half-empty-or-half-full/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=05ed59a37f-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-05ed59a37f-407304281

New Offshore Oil Regulations Respond To Key Failures Of Deepwater Horizon Spill

New Offshore Oil Regulations Respond To Key Failures Of Deepwater Horizon Spill

By Enerknol Research

Insight for Industry – New Offshore Regulations Respond to Key Failure On April 13, 2015, the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) proposed new offshore oil and gas regulations that will cost the industry hundreds of millions of dollars. However, offshore oil and gas producers will have several years

Keep reading →http://breakingenergy.com/2015/04/27/new-offshore-oil-regulations-respond-to-key-failures-of-deepwater-horizon-spill/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=05ed59a37f-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-05ed59a37f-407304281

Energy Quote of the Day: ‘Solar Has Come of Age in Japan’

Energy Quote of the Day: ‘Solar Has Come of Age in Japan’

By petedanko

Solar power is on the brink of becoming profitable in Japan and when it does, the technology will have achieved “commercial viability” in all of the G7 countries, Reuters is reporting. “Solar has come of age in Japan and from now on will be replacing imported uranium and fossil fuels,” said Tomas Kåberger, executive board chairman of Japan

Keep reading →http://breakingenergy.com/2015/04/27/energy-quote-of-the-day-solar-has-come-of-age-in-japan/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=05ed59a37f-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-05ed59a37f-407304281

North Dakota can join Wyoming lawsuit against hydraulic fracturing rules

http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/04/north-dakota-can-join-wyoming-lawsuit-against-hydraulic-fracturing-rules.html?cmpid=EnlDailyPetroApril282015

US Power Grid’s $2 Trillion Upgrade Needs European Efficiency

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2015/04/us-power-grids-2-trillion-upgrade-needs-european-efficiency?cmpid=BioNL-Tuesday-April28-2015

Azerbaijan Focuses on Alternative Energy Development to Increase Fossil Fuel Exports

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2015/04/azerbaijan-focuses-on-alternative-energy-development-to-increase-fossil-fuel-exports?cmpid=BioNL-Tuesday-April28-2015

Renewables Account for 75 Percent of New US Generating Capacity in First Quarter of 2015

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2015/04/renewables-account-for-75-percent-of-new-us-generating-capacity-in-first-quarter-of-2015?cmpid=BioNL-Tuesday-April28-2015

Australia’s Biggest Power Producer Sees Future without Coal

Australia’s Biggest Power Producer Sees Future without Coal
http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2015/04/australias-biggest-power-producer-sees-future-without-coal?cmpid=BioNL-Tuesday-April28-2015

Hiroaki Koide: "The Trouble with Nuclear Power"

Prof. Hiroaki Koide, Kyoto University Research Reactor Institute (retired), Apr 24, 2015, starting at 31:00 in (emphasis added):
Although what I’ve been describing is quite grave, we have an even more serious issue facing us, which is the reactor cores melted in Units 1-3. What are we going to do about that?… Tepco believes that there are lumps of melted fuel and they have this idea that they are somehow going to… pluck out all of these lumps… They’re saying that the first step they will take is to somehow plug the holes in the containment vessel… I believe this plan that has been presented is simply impossible to realize… We don’t even have the technology or ability now even to determine where the holes are, and even if we were able to determine where the holes are, how can we possibly repair them? We do not have the means to do so… I think the fundamental assumption of Tepco and the government that the melted fuel is sitting at the bottom in a nice little lump like a dumpling shape, I think that is impossible. It’s an impossible proposition.
What I’m trying to say is that although this picture [from Tepco] looks like a neat little situation where all of the spent fuel is put nicely into 2 little lumps, I think in reality that when one considers all of the explosions and shaking and damage that occurred, I cannot imagine that every bit of that melted fuel will be sitting nicely in one little lump, but rather it will have spread all over the place. And it’s also possible that not only would they spread horizontally, it could be that some of the fuel could actually have gone through the floor of the containment vessel as well. What I’ve just described is very, very logical for anyone who understands nuclear engineering or nuclear energy — and in recent months it has come to the understanding of the general public. In fact, this is a copy of a local Fukushima newspaper which printed an article about what I just described, instead of the government and Tepco’s description of the fuel being in one nice dumpling shape, it shows that probably they’re spread all over the place… In fact, this is the result of some announcements by even government sactioned experts… There’s no way that they will be able to get all of it. I believe that fundamentally the idea to somehow remove the melted fuel… is simply impossible to realize.
The only possible way we can eventually deal with this accident is to do what was done at Chernobyl. Which is to create a concrete coffin or sarcophagus for the facility.  Like the spent fuel pool at Unit 4… Units 1-3 have pools that are filled with spent fuels and they must be removed, otherwise we cannot even think about building a concrete coffin… How long will it take for the spent fuel rods to be removed to a slightly less dangerous place? We have no idea. I thnk Tepco and the Japanese government do not know how long this procedure will take… How many years from now will that [sarcophagus] be done? I cannot even begin to make a prediction, in fact I probably will not be alive when the project starts… Although the Chernobyl accident was a  terrible accident, it only involved one reactor. With Fukushima, we have the minimum [of] 3 reactors that are emitting dangerous radiation. The work involved to deal with this accident will take tens of years, hundreds of years.
Watch the press conference here
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=nCbXX3DURd0#t=1860

Nuclear energy in US not dead yet US boosts nuclear energy in Asia while neglecting it at home

US boosts nuclear energy in Asia while neglecting it at home

http://neutronbytes.com/2015/04/26/us-boosts-nuclear-energy-in-asia-while-neglecting-it-at-home/

New Mexico leaders push for high-level nuclear waste

http://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/southeastern-new-mexico-pushes-for-high-level-nuclear-waste/article_c1aba5cb-6b7d-551b-aae9-443e81556021.html

Cash Flowed to Clinton Foundation Amid Russian Uranium Deal

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/24/us/cash-flowed-to-clinton-foundation-as-russians-pressed-for-control-of-uranium-company.html

Clinton Foundation reportedly got millions as Russians sought OK for uranium deal from State

http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2015/04/23/clinton-foundation-reportedly-got-millions-as-russians-sought-ok-for-uranium/

Breaking down the Russian uranium deal hanging over Hillary Clinton’s campaign

http://qz.com/389829/breaking-down-the-russian-uranium-deal-hanging-over-hillary-clintons-campaign/

Clinton Cash: Hillary’s Spin Machine Can’t Shrug Off Uranium Scandal

http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2015/04/24/clinton-cash-hillarys-spin-machine-cant-shrug-off-uranium-scandal/

Preparations continue for initial CAP1400 units

Preparations continue for initial CAP1400 units
Construction of China's first two CAP1400 reactors at Shidaowan in Shandong province awaits final approval. However, site preparations for the units are well advanced with the pouring of concrete for the foundations of the first unit's conventional island having now begun.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-Preparations-continue-for-initial-CAP1400-units-2704155.html

Ruijin HTR plant proposal progresses

Ruijin HTR plant proposal progresses
A proposal to construct two 600 MWe high-temperature gas-cooled reactors at Ruijin city in China's Jiangxi province has passed a preliminary feasibility review, China Nuclear Engineering Corporation recently announced.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/NN-Ruijin-HTR-plant-proposal-progresses-2704154.html

FAS Roundup: April 27, 2015

FAS Roundup: April 27, 2015 Image courtesy of Shutterstock  View this email in your browser

Russia Nuclear Forces, 2015 Currently, Russia is modernizing its strategic and nonstrategic warheads; it currently has 4,500 nuclear warheads and 1,780 are deployed on missiles and bomber bases. Additionally, there are 700 strategic warheads and 2,000 nonstrategic warheads in storage, and an estimated 3,200 retired but largely intact warheads awaiting dismantlement. In the latest Nuclear Notebook, Hans Kristensen and Robert Norris examine Russia's nuclear arsenal and strategy. Despite Russian nuclear threats, they are not building up their arsenal, but appear to be leveling off the force within the next decade. However, there are many uncertainties about the future development of Russian nuclear forces. Available information indicates that Russia is continuing to reduce strategic nuclear launchers well below the limit set by the New START Treaty, and over the next decade all Soviet-era ICBMs will be retired. Depending on the extent of modernization plans over the next decade and how many missiles Russia can actually produce and deploy, the overall strategic force appears to be leveling off just below 500 launchers. Read the FAS Nuclear Notebook here.

From the Blogs

Russia Images the LACROSSE Spysat: A Russian satellite tracking facility in Siberia has produced rarely-seen photographs of a U.S. intelligence satellite. The U.S. Lacrosse radar satellite was captured in images generated at Russia’s Altay Optical Laser Center, apparently between 2005 and 2010. The images themselves seem to be mostly just a curiosity. But perhaps they underscore the growing visibility and the corresponding vulnerability of U.S. space-based assets.

Is China Planning to Build More Missile Submarines?: Over the past few months, several U.S. defense and intelligence officials have stated for the record that China is planning to build significantly more nuclear-powered missile submarines than previously assumed. Recently, the commander of US Pacific Command (PACOM), Admiral Samuel Locklear, stated that in addition to the three Jin-class SSBNs currently in operation, “up to five more may enter service by the end of the decade.” Production of five additional SSBNs by the end of the decade would require fielding one SSBN per year for the next five years, a production pace that China has yet to demonstrate. The first three Jin SSBNs took more than a decade to complete. Hans Kristensen writes that there are many questions related to the building of more subs, including the timetable and operation, as China does not have much experience operating SSBNs on lengthy patrols.
Nuclear Cooperation Agreements and Nonproliferation: Last week, President Obama sent to Congress the text of a proposed agreement with the People's Republic of China regarding cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Known as “123 agreements” based on section 123 of the Atomic Energy Act, such accords are intended to regulate international traffic in nuclear materials and technology. The existing agreement expires this year. Among several proliferation-related issues likely to be considered in finalizing the pending agreement are Chinese missile technology exports and its nuclear support to Pakistan.

Cybersecurity and Information Sharing and More from CRS: Secrecy News has obtained recently released CRS reports on topics such as FY16 appropriations for the Department of Justice, cybersecurity and information sharing and domestic human trafficking legislation in Congress.
 

FAS in the News Apr 23: USA Today, "Petraeus Gets Probation For Leaking Secrets To Mistress"  Apr 23: Voice of America, "Killing of Hostages Calls US Drone Policy Into Question" Apr 23: Charlotte Observer, "David Petraeus' Fall Began And Ends In Charlotte"

Interview: Current Status of Indian Point Nuclear Plant Relicensing

http://theenergycollective.com/jared-anderson/2220926/exclusive-interview-current-status-indian-point-nuclear-plant-relicensing?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=The+Energy+Collective+%28all+posts%29

Cameras reveal the secret lives of Chernobyl's wildlife

By Mark Kinver Environment reporter, BBC News

http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-32452085

Next-generation nuclear reactors may not be safer: French watchdog

http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/04/27/us-nuclear-future-france-idUSKBN0NI1WJ20150427

Catholics to press nuclear weapons ban at U.N. treaty review conference

http://catholicphilly.com/2015/04/news/national-news/catholics-to-press-nuclear-weapons-ban-at-u-n-treaty-review-conference/

Reports: Drone operator considered dropping radioactive sand on US facility in Tokyo

http://www.stripes.com/news/pacific/reports-drone-operator-considered-dropping-radioactive-sand-on-us-facility-in-tokyo-1.342503

Drone flyer surveilled American Embassy housing facility, buzzed Sendai nuclear plant: blog

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/04/27/national/drone-flyer-surveilled-american-embassy-housing-facility-buzzed-sendai-nuclear-plant/#.VT6OMGaKI-8

Malaysia must immediately stop plans on nuclear power plants and spearhead Asean Free-Nuclear-Energy Zone — Abdulhadi Khalid

Malaysia must immediately stop plans on nuclear power plants and spearhead Asean Free-Nuclear-Energy Zone — Abdulhadi Khalid - See more at: http://www.themalaymailonline.com/what-you-think/article/malaysia-must-immediately-stop-plans-on-nuclear-power-plants-and-spearhead#sthash.CSkbm7FB.dpuf

Malaysia must immediately stop plans on nuclear power plants and spearhead Asean Free-Nuclear-Energy Zone — Abdulhadi Khalid - See more at: http://www.themalaymailonline.com/what-you-think/article/malaysia-must-immediately-stop-plans-on-nuclear-power-plants-and-spearhead#sthash.CSkbm7FB.dpuf

Malaysia must immediately stop plans on nuclear power plants and spearhead Asean Free-Nuclear-Energy Zone — Abdulhadi Khalid 

http://www.themalaymailonline.com/what-you-think/article/malaysia-must-immediately-stop-plans-on-nuclear-power-plants-and-spearhead

Russians to bid for Malaysia’s nuclear power plant

http://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2015/04/27/russians-to-bid-for-malaysias-nuclear-power-plant/

Nuclear industry pushing for changes to Obama’s climate rule

http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/240125-nuclear-industry-pushing-for-changes-to-obamas-climate-rule

China Adding Nuclear Plants at Record Pace in Fight Against Smog

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-04-27/china-adding-nuclear-plants-at-record-pace-in-fight-against-smog

East Africa: Nuclear Energy Like Bridge Too Far for EAC

http://allafrica.com/stories/201504272330.html

China mulls inland nuclear power plant building

China’s National Energy Administration is analysing whether the country should build inland nuclear power plants. The topic has aroused fierce debate.
http://www.eco-business.com/news/china-mulls-inland-nuclear-power-plant-building/

A new era for nuclear power?

A new era for nuclear power?

http://www.tylerpaper.com/TP-Business/218541/a-new-era-for-nuclear-power

Fukushima Update 4/27/15

Fukushima Update 4/27/15 –
A localized high level of radiation was found in Tokyo on Thursday… The man who flew the drone atop PM Abe’s office roof was protesting nuke restarts… Tepco says they have finished sealing the seabed inside the port at F. Daiichi… A Chiba civic group seeks to block rural waste storage on Tepco property… Tokyo projects that nuclear powered-electricity will cost less than thermal fuels through 2030. http://www.hiroshimasyndrome.com/fukushima-accident-updates.html

Editorial Storing nuclear waste Reid’s retirement should open door to Yucca site

Editorial

Storing nuclear waste

Reid’s retirement should open door to Yucca site

http://registerguard.com/rg/opinion/33018358-78/storing-nuclear-waste.html.csp

Editorial: NM right to be wary of federal energy decisions

http://www.abqjournal.com/575432/opinion/nm-right-to-be-wary-of-federal-energy-decisions.html

US Nuclear Power Safety: Is the Glass Half Empty or Half Full?

By Roman Kilisek and Jared Anderson

http://breakingenergy.com/2015/04/27/us-nuclear-power-safety-is-the-glass-half-empty-or-half-full/

NRC reaffirms safe operation, regulatory commitment of Farley, Hatch and Vogtle nuclear plants

NRC reaffirms safe operation, regulatory commitment of Farley, Hatch and Vogtle nuclear plants
http://www.yournuclearnews.com/nrc+reaffirms+safe+operation,+regulatory+commitment+of+farley,+hatch+and+vogtle+nuclear+plants_115643.html

NRC sets Global Nuclear Fuels meeting

http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20150427/ARTICLES/150429751?Title=NRC-sets-Global-Nuclear-Fuels-meeting

13 fascinating charts that show the state of American energy

The Obama administration's QER calls for up to $5B to modernize energy infrastructure.

http://www.utilitydive.com/news/13-fascinating-charts-that-show-the-state-of-american-energy/391085/

DOE: 'Clean coal' projects have captured, stored 10 million tons of CO2

http://www.utilitydive.com/news/doe-clean-coal-projects-have-captured-stored-10-million-tons-of-co2/391061/

Captain Kirk Wants To Beam Down Water For California’s MegaDrought

Captain Kirk Wants To Beam Down Water For California’s MegaDrought

The former Captain James T. Kirk wants to crowdfund a water pipeline from Seattle down to Lake Mead in Nevada to fix California's megadrought. That’s a bad idea. It’s cheaper and better to build desalination plants. They produce drinking water at a cost of less than a tenth of a cent per gallon. The power requirement to desalinate seawater for a family of four is about the same as the total power consumption of their refrigerator. Thirty desalination plants would cost the same as what is being raised for a pipeline and would produce a billion gallons of freshwater a day.

http://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesconca/2015/04/27/captain-kirk-wants-to-beam-down-water-for-californias-megadrought/

http://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesconca/2015/04/27/captain-kirk-wants-to-beam-down-water-for-californias-megadrought/ 

"An Unsung Hero Makes its Last Voyage"

"An Unsung Hero Makes its Last Voyage"

http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/V-An-unsung-hero-makes-its-last-voyage-2441501.html

Will Davis looks at the life of the nuclear power barge STURGIS in a piece specially written for World Nuclear News, and wonders if the final days of the STURGIS also herald the arrival of the promise it originally extended four decades ago.

 

What California can learn from Saudi Arabia’s water mystery

By Nathan Halverson / April 22, 2015 / http://www.revealnews.org/article/what-california-can-learn-from-saudi-arabias-water-mystery/

http://www.revealnews.org/article/what-california-can-learn-from-saudi-arabias-water-mystery/ 

"Hope for Nuclear Regulatory Reform?"

ANS Nuclear Cafe:

"Hope for Nuclear Regulatory Reform?"

Jim Hopf describes progress in, and further ideas for progress towards, reforms in the regulation of nuclear energy in the United States that could lead to all-around improvements for the nuclear industry.  Specifically, Hopf points out Senator Lamar Alexander's desire to cut down on unnecessary regulations throughout the government.   http://ansnuclearcafe.org/2015/04/22/hope-for-nuclear-regulatory-reform/

Is switching from coal to gas better for the climate?

http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/04/coal-news-is-switching-from-coal-to-gas-better-for-the-climate.html

Russia to Build World's First Floating Nuclear Power Plant Next Year

Russia to Build World's First Floating Nuclear Power Plant Next Year

http://www.themoscowtimes.com/business/article/russia-to-build-worlds-first-floating-nuclear-power-plant-next-year/519501.html

IEEE predicts mind control on tap for 2025

http://www.smartgridnews.com/story/ieee-predicts-mind-control-tap-2025/2015-04-14?utm_campaign=AddThis&utm_medium=AddThis&utm_source=linkedin#.VTPMVJyD67k.linkedin

An Ecomodernist Manifesto: intensify to spare nature

http://bravenewclimate.com/2015/04/26/an-ecomodernist-manifesto-intensify-to-spare-nature/