Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Friday, May 1, 2015

Power Engineering's ENewsletter 5/1

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Top Stories
Report: Natural gas genset installations to double by 2024
Annual installations of natural gas generator sets (gensets) are expected to grow from 12.9 GW in 2015 to more than 27.1 GW in 2024, according to a new report from Navigant Research.
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Duke Energy to build lined coal ash landfills at Dan River, Sutton power plants
Duke Energy plans to submit permits to construct lined onsite landfills at the Dan River Steam Station and the Sutton Plant in North Carolina to provide a permanent storage solution for more than 6 million tons of coal ash.
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DOE projects captures, stores 10 million metric tons of CO2
According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), a group of carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects supported by the DOE have safely captured 10 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2).
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DOE awards geothermal research grants in NV, UT, CA, ID, OR
The U.S. Energy Department awarded grants to scientists in Nevada and four other western states to develop research for a national lab aimed at tapping hard-to-get-to geothermal energy they say someday could provide enough power to supply 100 million homes.
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The Week's Most Read Articles
Russia plans floating nuclear power plant by 2016
Construction began in 2007 on the floating station, called the Akademik Lomonosov, but the project has not yet become fully operational after several delays.
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CB&I cited & fined for 2013 nuclear part damage cover up
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) issued a Severity Level II violation and proposed a civil penalty of $11,200 to Chicago Bridge & Iron (CB&I) and a Severity Level III violation to a former company official.
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Top 5 U.S. Coal Plant Heat Rates
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, a power plant's heat rate measures the amount of electricity used by an electrical generator or power plant to generate one kilowatthour (kWh) of electricity, measured as btu/kWh.
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Combined Cycle: The Preferred Option
Most new generation in the U.S. is being fueled with natural gas, and the most dominant technology being used to burn the fuel is combined cycle.
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Industry Trends
Henry Hub Average Natural Gas Spot Prices
The Henry Hub is the pricing point for natural gas futures contracts. Here's a look at how prices have changed up to April 22, 2015.
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Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas' Economic Indicators
The Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas offers a glimpse into how the markets are doing domestically and internationally.
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EIA’s weekly coal production report
The U.S. Energy Information Administration has released its coal production report for the week ending April 18.
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The Wall of Honor pays tribute to military personnel around the world. It is on display at all of PennWell's North American conferences. Click to add a name or sponsor the wall.
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Power Generation Week 2014 Post-Show Report
It was another successful year at Power Generation Week 2014! As the world's largest power generation event, the week was spent focusing on the industry's latest innovations, technical trends, and business strategies. The event boasted over 22,000 attendees from 115 countries, and 1,400+ exhibitors. Click here to learn more about Power Generation Week and what happened in 2014!
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From GenerationHub
Alliant utility in Iowa seeks 200 MW of wind energy
The Alliant Energy (NYSE: LNT) Iowa utility, Interstate Power and Light (IPL), has issued a request for proposals (RFP) for up to 200 MW of in-state wind energy.
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EPA rejects final issues with MATS and Utility NSPS rules
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is rejecting all remaining issues that it hasn't previously addressed related to the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) and another air rule.
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Power Engineering Slideshow
U.S. Coal Plants with the Lowest NOx Emission Rates
The Top 5 U.S. coal-fired power plants were rated on the lowest NOx emissions.
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Callaway Energy Center's Replacement Reactor Vessel Closure Head Project
Progress photos of the replacement reactor vessel closure head, during fabrication, at Equipos Nucleares SA in Santander, Spain.
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PennEnergy's Weekly Top Power News

Top Power News

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

Siemens hands over world’s largest offshore grid connection to TenneT

DOE: Projects reach carbon capture and storage milestone

Alliant looks to add gas fired power station at its Riverside Energy Center

Vattenfall wants earlier shut down for Ringhals 1 and 2

$75M to project for harnessing solar power to create fuel

South Korea, US agree to revised civil nuclear cooperation deal

Oil and gas, power, prices: Big themes from CERAWeek

Trina signs framework agreement for 300 MW of DG solar power

Toshiba to supply new combined cycle power plant in Mexico

Xcel transmission projects not hampered by oil prices

Survey: Customer calls, not smart meters, lead in outage notification

AES unveils expanding energy storage project pipeline

NRC increases oversight of Comanche Peak nuclear power plant

Pioneer, GSA sign 75 MW solar power agreement

PennEnergy's Top Oil & Gas News

This Week's Most Popular Oil & Gas News

South Dakota PUC postpones public meeting on Keystone XL oil pipeline

Oil and gas drilling remains slow in Wyoming amid low prices

Leak at Georgia oil and gas refinery kills 1; 3 others injured

US oil and gas rig count drops by 22 to 932

Washington state Legislature passes oil train safety bill

Gibson announce expansion of Hardisty West Terminal

Praxair expands on-site supply for CNOOC oil and gas refinery

Shell seeks injunction against Arctic offshore drilling protesters

Technip wins contract for oil and gas refinery upgrade project

Enbridge, TransCanada, Kinder Morgan evaluating aerial-based oil and gas pipeline safety technologies

LoneStar Energy Fabrication completes work on Big Foot offshore drilling platform

Saudi Arabia, China energy partnership to grow

India, Pakistan, and the nuclear humanitarian initiative: Let’s be real

India and Pakistan have surprised international observers by attending all three conferences of the humanitarian initiative.http://thebulletin.org/india-pakistan-and-nuclear-humanitarian-initiative-let%E2%80%99s-be-real8256

The United States just might be Iran’s favorite new nuclear supplier

Who will supply Iran the goods it needs to keep its nuclear program running?http://thebulletin.org/united-states-just-might-be-iran%E2%80%99s-favorite-new-nuclear-supplier8257
 

Signs N. Korea nuclear reactor operational: US think-tank

Signs N. Korea nuclear reactor operational: US think-tank
Seoul (AFP) April 30, 2015 - Recent satellite images suggest the nuclear reactor seen as North Korea's main source of weapons-grade plutonium may have resumed low-power or intermittent operations, a US think-tank said Thursday. Last year, the Washington-based Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) said the five-megawatt reactor at the North's main Yongbyon nuclear complex appeared to have been shut down ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Signs_N_Korea_nuclear_reactor_operational_US_think-tank_999.html

Britain tells UN Iran trying to buy nuclear technology

Britain tells UN Iran trying to buy nuclear technology
United Nations, United States (AFP) April 30, 2015 - Iran is actively trying to buy nuclear technology through blacklisted companies, according to a confidential UN report, citing information from the British government. The claims - which if true would violate UN sanctions - were made to a UN panel of experts just weeks after world powers reached a framework deal with Iran on curbing its nuclear program. "The UK government informed the ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Britain_tells_UN_Iran_trying_to_buy_nuclear_technology_999.html

What Does China Have To DO To Become THE World Power?

What Does China Have To DO To Become THE World Power?

 

http://www.forbes.com/sites/jamesconca/2015/04/30/what-do-you-have-to-do-to-become-the-world-power/ 

No Premature Closure of Nuke Plants

No Premature Closure of Nuke Plants

There is a significant benefit in keeping well-functioning nuclear-energy plants open.



http://www.wsj.com/articles/no-premature-closure-of-nuke-plants-letters-to-the-editor-1430334718?mod=WSJ_hp_LEFTTopStories

Thursday, April 30, 2015

Turkey starts building first nuclear power plant

 

Turkey starts building first nuclear power plant


https://www.energylivenews.com/2015/04/30/turkey-starts-building-first-nuclear-power-plant/

India: Government Approves 10 Sites for New Nuclear Power Projects

http://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/Government-Approves-10-Sites-for-New-Nuclear-Power-Projects/2015/04/30/article2790661.ece1

Drone rules pose risks and rewards for nuclear power plants

Drone rules pose risks and rewards for nuclear power plants


http://www.eenews.net/stories/1060017725

Finland signs nuclear construction deal with Russian firm

Finland signs nuclear construction deal with Russian firm


http://www.power-eng.com/articles/2015/04/finland-signs-nuclear-construction-deal-with-russian-firm.html

The IAEA Takes its Nuclear Security Plan to Diplomats in New York

Continuity of evidence is important to ensure chain of custody in any investigation that involves nuclear forensics, accounting for movement of the evidence to demonstrate that it has stayed within authorized control. (Photo: D. Calma/IAEA)
On 29 April 2015 delegates gathered on the sidelines of the 2015 Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non‑Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) at United Nations headquarters in New York to discuss the implementation of the IAEA Nuclear Security Plan 2014-2017.
The discussion was led by Geoffrey Shaw, the representative of IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano at the United Nations.
The presentation covered the nature of modern nuclear security threats, measures being used to combat these threats, international instruments, such as treaties, safety standards and guidelines, and the role of the IAEA in the global nuclear security framework.
The Nuclear Security Plan 2014-2017 aims "To contribute to global efforts to achieve effective security wherever nuclear and other radioactive material is in use, storage and/or transport, and of associated facilities by supporting States, upon their request to meet their national responsibilities and international obligations, to reduce risks and respond appropriately to threats." Shaw described the seven key elements of the plan:
  1. Needs Assessment, Information and Cybersecurity - to maintain a comprehensive information system that supports the implementation of the Nuclear Security Plan by assisting the Agency prioritize its work to address the need for nuclear security improvements and in better identification of resources required to implement the Plan.
  2. External Coordination - to ensure effective coordination of international activities in the field of nuclear security, while avoiding overlap and duplication and to increase awareness of the IAEA activities in nuclear security.
  3. Supporting the Nuclear Security Framework Globally - to assist in the development and promotion of a comprehensive and global nuclear security framework, and in particular adherence to and implementation of the 2005 Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material including through provision of legislative assistance; to produce comprehensive guidance for issue in the Nuclear Security Series and to support upon request its implementation by States.
  4. Coordinated Research Projects - to provide technical support and confidence building networks, available to all, in order to promote information exchange on the results of research projects and to support the Nuclear Security Series guidance publications.
  5. Assessment through Self-assessment and/or through Peer Review Missions - to assist States, upon request, in improving their national nuclear security regimes through promotion of self-assessment and through the provision of peer reviews, based on the relevant international instruments and internationally accepted guidance
  6. Human Resources Development - to provide a coordinated education, awareness and training programme in nuclear security that meets the requirements and needs of identified by Member States.
  7. Risk Reduction and Security Improvement - to contribute to efforts by States to improve the security of nuclear material and nuclear facilities and radioactive sources and associated facilities and for the transport of nuclear and other radioactive material; to improve national nuclear security capabilities to act effectively when material is detected out of regulatory control as well as assisting in national efforts to reduce the risk that nuclear or other radioactive material could be in used in a criminal or intentional unauthorized act.
Upcoming IAEA events side events organized at United Nations headquarters during the NPT Review Conference include:
  • an event on nuclear safety on Friday, 1 May 2015, from 13:30 to 14:30 in Room CR-D; and
  • an event on safeguards on Friday, 8 May 2015, from 13.30 to 14:30 in the ECOSOC Chamber.
The IAEA held a High-Level Event on the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Technology on 27 April.
The IAEA is also be holding an exhibition throughout the duration of the Review Conference highlighting its activities relevant to the implementation of the NPT.

https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/news/iaea-takes-its-nuclear-security-plan-diplomats-new-york

Sen. Risch Outlines Support for America’s Diverse Energy Portfolio

Sen. Risch Outlines Support for America’s Diverse Energy Portfolio

Idaho Senator Calls for Balance Between Conservation and Use

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee today released the second installment in its video series highlighting its Republican members. Today, U.S. Sen. James Risch, R-Idaho, underscores his support for a commonsense approach to energy policy that makes good use of the nation’s vast and varied natural resources.


http://www.energy.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/republican-news?ID=b7d5c0b3-6e95-4b5e-882f-49cb7eee8219

Fukushima Update 4/30/15

Fukushima Update 4/30/15

Japan’s nuke watchdog approved building the Fukushima ice wall… Start-up of the soil freezing system for the ice wall occurred today… The operator of the drone found atop PM Abe’s office building may have been looking for fame… Three workers were splashed with mildly radioactive water at Shimane unit #1… Iitate Electric Company is upset with Tokyo’s 2030 projection for nuke-generated electricity.

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

DTE Energy to receive license for new nuclear unit


DTE Energy to receive license for new nuclear unit

https://dteenergy.mediaroom.com/2015-04-30-DTE-Energy-to-receive-license-for-new-nuclear-unit

Carnival of Nuclear Energy 258

Carnival of Nuclear Energy 258


http://nextbigfuture.com/2015/04/carnival-of-nuclear-energy-258.html

A Call to Foundations to Step Up Giving, Act on Climate


A Call to Foundations to Step Up Giving, Act on Climate

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/justin-guay/a-call-to-foundations-to_b_7087958.html 

The NRC Blog – Its First Four Years by Moderator

The NRC Blog – Its First Four Years

by Moderator
Eliot Brenner
Public Affairs Director

Four years ago, just six weeks before the nuclear accident at Fukushima, the NRC initiated this blog. As we said at the time: the blog is intended to serve as a vehicle for informing, explaining and clarifying the actions, roles and responsibilities of the NRC, raising awareness about our agency and its mission, and – most importantly – giving us another opportunity to hear from you.
Blog button medWe believe the blog has served that purpose well. In the past four years, we have published some 540 posts on a wide variety of subjects from tiny jelly fish affecting a nuclear power plant to updates on Hurricane Sandy and posts on nuclear history (some of our most popular posts). Posts have been written by staff throughout the agency and the regions, including the Chairman and Executive Director for Operations, as well as technical staff and public affairs officers. We have strived to model plain language in our blog posts – contrary, perhaps, to some of our official communications – so that these subjects are more readily understood by the public, for whom the blog is intended.
We have also found the blog to be a lively source of comments. Some 4,800 comments have been approved and posted in the past four years. A quick review of the comments reflects how liberally the NRC applies its blog comment guidelines. At times, though, comments may contain personal attacks, “four-letter-words,” or other violations of our comment policy. When that occurs, we remove that verbiage (and note that) and then post the comment. We also may occasionally move some comments to our Open Forum section if they’ve strayed too far from the original post. Very few of the submitted comments are not posted (with the exception of duplicates).
Over the past four years or so, there have been more than 650,000 views to NRC blog. We’re happy the information is reaching an audience. If you have suggestions for topics for future blog posts, please let us know in the comments below.
I should note that the blog is the oldest but not the only social media platform the NRC uses. We also use Twitter, Facebook and YouTube and the photo gallery platform Flickr as well.



Moderator | April 30, 2015 at 2:00 pm | Categories: General | URL: http://wp.me/p1fSSY-1D2
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POWER-GEN 200


POWER-GEN 200 is a ranking of the most successful publicly held companies in the power generation businesses. The index is split into two listings. It features the top 100 power generators and the top 100 companies that provide services and products to power generators. The data includes gross revenue, market capitalization, net income, and generation capacity.
Power generators are ranked by their generation capacity while service providers are ranked by their gross revenue. http://www.power-eng.com/power-gen200.html

Link to NRC release on Fermi-3 COL.

Link to NRC release on Fermi-3 COL. 

http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/news/2015/15-030.pdf

Iran insists Israel ‘give up the bomb’ as Tehran seeks nuclear-free Middle East


Iran insists Israel ‘give up the bomb’ as Tehran seeks nuclear-free Middle East

http://rt.com/news/253549-israel-iran-nuclear-weapons/

Witnessing A Fundamental Change In The Oil Sector

Witnessing A Fundamental Change In The Oil Sector


http://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2015/04/witnessing-fundamental-change-oil-sector.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NakedCapitalism+%28naked+capitalism%29

Plan to Store Spent Nuclear Fuel in New Mexico Takes Major Step

Plan to Store Spent Nuclear Fuel in New Mexico Takes Major Step


http://www.powermag.com/plan-to-store-spent-nuclear-fuel-in-new-mexico-takes-major-step/?hq_e=el&hq_m=3072237&hq_l=5&hq_v=30108e0773

Russia to Continue Development of Nuclear Engine for Deep Space Flights

Russia to Continue Development of Nuclear Engine for Deep Space Flights
Moscow (Sputnik) Apr 29, 2015 - Russia will continue its plans to create a nuclear engine for deep space flights, according to the country's 2016-2025 Federal Space Program. A number of news agencies earlier said that Roscosmos was apparently planning on closing down its work on creating a megawatt-class nuclear engine meant for deep space flights. According to the Federal Space Program, the creation of the nuclear ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Russia_to_Continue_Development_of_Nuclear_Engine_for_Deep_Space_Flights_999.html

Beijing Details Plans for Artificial Islands in South China Sea

Beijing Details Plans for Artificial Islands in South China Sea
Moscow (Sputnik) Apr 30, 2015 - China revealed detailed plans on Thursday for the islands it is creating in the disputed South China Sea, saying that construction will not only bolster military defense, but will also provide civilian services for neighboring countries. Speaking at a news briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said the building efforts in the Spratly archipelago, one of the largest in ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Beijing_Details_Plans_for_Artificial_Islands_in_South_China_Sea_999.html

North Korea May Possess 20 Nuclear Warheads

North Korea May Possess 20 Nuclear Warheads
Moscow (Sputnik) Apr 30, 2015 - Pyongyang may have accumulated some 20 nuclear warheads with the capability of doubling its potential by 2016, according to the latest expert estimates. The figures, sounded by Chinese nuclear experts during a closed meeting with US colleagues, exceed previous US estimations ranging from 10 to 16 nuclear bombs, the Wall Street Journal reported on Wednesday, citing sources briefed on the is ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/North_Korea_May_Possess_20_Nuclear_Warheads_999.html

NRC increases oversight of Comanche Peak nuclear power plant


NRC increases oversight of Comanche Peak nuclear power plant

http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/04/nrc-increases-oversight-of-comanche-peak-nuclear-power-plant.html

Fire strikes exclusion zone around Chernobyl nuclear power plant


Fire strikes exclusion zone around Chernobyl nuclear power plant

http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/04/fire-strikes-exclusion-zone-around-chernobyl-nuclear-power-plant.html

Saudi Arabia, China energy partnership to grow


Saudi Arabia, China energy partnership to grow

http://www.pennenergy.com/articles/pennenergy/2015/04/oil-and-gas-saudi-arabia-china-energy-partnership-to-grow.html?cmpid=EnlDailyPetroApril302015

California’s Major Residential Rate Reform: A Mixed Bag For Solar Economics

California’s Major Residential Rate Reform: A Mixed Bag For Solar Economics

By GreenTech Media
Schwarzenegger Tours Solar Panel Roof Of A Sam's Club
Flattened tiers, minimum bills and time-of-use pricing are coming.  This week, California utility regulators issued a long-awaited proposal to reform the complex, multi-tiered rate structures for residential customers of the state’s big three investor-owned utilities. And as solar advocates expected, it contains some good news and some bad news for the economics of customer-owned net-metered

It’s Not All About Oil and Gas in the Arctic

It’s Not All About Oil and Gas in the Arctic

By Roman Kilisek
shutterstock_142755412
Why the US should strive for a Holistic Regional Framework on Sustainable Offshore Natural Resource Development Over the weekend, the US assumed the two-year rotating chairmanship of the Arctic Council, an intergovernmental forum, at the conclusion of the 2015 ministerial meeting in Iqaluit (Canada). The US has outlined a policy agenda with a focus on

Energy Quote of the Day: ‘California Sets a Very High Bar’ With 2030 Emissions Target

Energy Quote of the Day: ‘California Sets a Very High Bar’ With 2030 Emissions Target

By Pete Danko
california
Nothing’s changed in the long run; California is still aiming to cut its greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent from 1990 levels by 2050. But with one marker along the way – parity with 1990 emissions by 2020 – apparently in the bag, Gov. Jerry Brown on Wednesday set a bold new interim target: a reduction of

Due to power plant retirements, California PUC may reject power line app

Due to power plant retirements, California PUC may reject power line app
4/21/2015
by Barry Cassell

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on April 20 issued a Proposed Decision that would deny without prejudice Southern California Edison's (SCE) request to construct the Coolwater-Lugo Transmission Project (CLTP).
Administrative Law Judge Irene Moosen's Proposed Decision, which will be up for review at the commission's May 21 meeting, dismisses the application of SCE for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) without prejudice. This recommended action is because the current proposed project cannot be evaluated without new studies that take into consideration: significant changes to transmission grid conditions along the project route that have occurred since the project was proposed, and comprehensive new analyses to identify any residual need for transmission system upgrades in the area.
The Proposed Decision cites comments from the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) that the need for the project to interconnect the Mojave Solar Project no longer exists due to the retirement of several power plants in the project area. The Proposed Decision also responds to the notification by NRG California South LP that its Coolwater Generating Station was permanently retired as of January 2015. This facility was a 636-MW gas-fired plant located in Daggett, Calif. NRG California is a unit of NRG Energy (NYSE: NRG).

Japan Anticipates Clean Energy Will Edge Out Nuclear Power


Japan Anticipates Clean Energy Will Edge Out Nuclear Power

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2015/04/japan-anticipates-clean-energy-will-edge-out-nuclear-power?cmpid=StorageNL-Thursday-April30-2015

8.4-MW Cogeneration Plant to Power Los Angeles International Airport

 

8.4-MW Cogeneration Plant to Power Los Angeles International Airport

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/article/2015/04/8-4-mw-cogeneration-plant-to-power-los-angeles-international-airport?cmpid=StorageNL-Thursday-April30-2015

The Future of Energy Storage and the Rise of Big Batteries


The Future of Energy Storage and the Rise of Big Batteries

http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/blog/post/2015/04/the-future-of-energy-storage-and-the-rise-of-big-batteries?cmpid=StorageNL-Thursday-April30-2015

SNPTC and CPI to be merged in May

SNPTC and CPI to be merged in May

SNPTC and CPI will establish a national electric power investment group in the first half of May. The existing CPI and SNPTC brand will be saved as its subsidiaries and the original nuclear business of CPI will be integrated into SNPTC.

Source: http://www.heneng.net.cn/index.php?mod=news&action=show&article_id=34784&category_id=7

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Iran is sending a clear message while the US 'looks like a helpless giant'

Iran is sending a clear message while the US 'looks like a helpless giant'



http://www.businessinsider.com/iran-is-sending-a-clear-message-while-the-us-looks-like-a-helpless-giant-2015-4?nr_email_referer=1&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Business%20Insider%20Select&utm_campaign=BI%20Select%20%28Wednesday%20Friday%29%202015-04-29&utm_content=BISelect

Iran: Hypocrisy of Nuclear Proliferation Highlighted by Israel's Undeclared Arsenal

 

Iran: Hypocrisy of Nuclear Proliferation Highlighted by Israel's Undeclared Arsenal

http://www.enewspf.com/latest-news/latest-national/latest-national-news/60843-iran-hypocrisy-of-nuclear-proliferation-highlighted-by-israel-s-undeclared-arsenal.html

The Reactors That Will Revolutionize Nuclear Energy


The Reactors That Will Revolutionize Nuclear Energy

http://blogs.wsj.com/experts/2015/04/29/the-reactors-that-will-revolutionize-nuclear-energy/

Issues Of The Environment: More Nuclear Energy In Michigan, Or Not

Issues Of The Environment: More Nuclear Energy In Michigan, Or Not


http://wemu.org/post/issues-environment-more-nuclear-energy-michigan-or-not

Public weighs in on nuclear expansion plans

Public weighs in on nuclear expansion plans
http://keysnews.com/node/66445

New Mexico and Texas Locations Interested in Receiving Spent Nuclear Fuel


New Mexico and Texas Locations Interested in Receiving Spent Nuclear Fuel


http://www.powermag.com/new-mexico-and-texas-locations-interested-in-receiving-spent-nuclear-fuel/

Feds find problems at NJ nuke plant

http://www.courierpostonline.com/story/news/local/south-jersey/2015/04/28/feds-finds-problems-nj-nuke-plant/26507223/

Russia building nuclear reactors – and influence – around the globe


Russia building nuclear reactors – and influence – around the globe

http://blogs.reuters.com/great-debate/2015/04/28/russia-building-nuclear-reactors-and-influence-around-the-globe/

Have China and Russia Stolen the Nuclear Thunder from the U.S.?

Have China and Russia Stolen the Nuclear Thunder from the U.S.?


http://neinuclearnotes.blogspot.com/2015/04/surrendering-to-mao-and-lenin-on.html

NRC reaffirms Diablo Canyon's seismic safety

NRC reaffirms Diablo Canyon's seismic safety


http://www.sanluisobispo.com/2015/04/28/3608660/nrc-diablo-canyon-earthquake-safety.html

ruce Power, KHNP extend collaboration on Candus

ruce Power, KHNP extend collaboration on Candus
Two Candu operators - Canada's Bruce Power and Korea Hydro and Nuclear Power - have signed a memorandum of understanding to extend their cooperation, particularly in areas related to nuclear safety, operational performance and carrying out large projects such as refurbishment.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/C-Bruce-Power-KHNP-extend-collaboration-on-Candus-2904154.html

EIA: U.S. energy demand slows except for industrial, commercial sectors


U.S. energy demand slows except for industrial, commercial sectors

graph of total energy consumption by end-use sector, as explained in the article text
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration, Annual Energy Outlook 2015 (interactive table viewer)

U.S. energy consumption has slowed recently and is not anticipated to return to growth levels seen in the second half of the 20th century. EIA's Reference case projections in the Annual Energy Outlook 2015 (AEO2015) show that domestic consumption is expected to grow at a modest 0.3% per year through 2040, less than half the rate of population growth. Energy used in homes is essentially flat, and transportation consumption will decline slightly, meaning that energy consumption growth will be concentrated in U.S. businesses and industries.
Near-zero growth in energy consumption is a recent phenomenon, and there is substantial uncertainty about the main drivers of consumption as the United States continues to recover from the latest economic recession and resumes more normal economic growth. EIA's analysis in the AEO2015 includes several cases with various assumptions about macroeconomic growth, world oil prices, and domestic energy resource availability.
Increases in energy consumption are mostly related to economic activity, and U.S. industrial and commercial enterprises are projected to increase output more rapidly than countervailing influences from improved technologies. Existing policies also can moderate energy use. Energy intensity, measured as the amount of energy per unit of output, does continue to decline during the projection period. Nonetheless, industrial energy consumption still rises by 0.7% per year through 2040, while commercial consumption rises 0.5% per year in the AEO2015 Reference case.
Declines in energy consumption tend to result from the adoption of energy efficient technologies (often affected by policy measures) and larger, structural changes in the economy. Although the residential and transportation sectors are different in the ways they consume energy, energy consumption in these sectors through 2040 is projected to remain below historical levels.
Most of the major energy-consuming equipment and appliances in U.S. homes and apartments have been covered by federal energy efficiency standards since the mid-1990s. As this equipment can often last for decades, the United States is only now reaching a period in which most appliances were manufactured and installed in an era when these efficiency standards were in place. Residential consumption has also declined as the population has shifted toward warmer climates, reducing the need for space heating. The corresponding increase in energy for space cooling is much less than energy for heating, thus reducing overall residential energy consumption.
The transportation sector has also seen consumption declines from energy efficiency and structural effects, with policy playing a large supporting role. Corporate average fuel economy standards for light-duty vehicles have been in place since the late 1970s, and similar standards for heavy-duty vehicles and trucks have been in place since the early 1980s. These standards, combined with less travel in response to technological and social factors, have reduced transportation energy consumption in recent years and are expected to continue holding transportation consumption nearly flat in the coming decades. Gasoline consumption, which accounted for 58% of transportation consumption in 2013, falls 21% by 2040 to 47% of total transportation energy consumption, while other transportation fuels such as diesel and jet fuel increase slightly.
Principal contributor: Jim Turnure

http://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.cfm?id=21012&src=email&utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Utility%20Dive&utm_campaign=Issue%3A%202015-04-29%20Utility%20Dive%20Newsletter

AES plans ambitious 1,000 MW expansion in battery storage


AES plans ambitious 1,000 MW expansion in battery storage

http://www.utilitydive.com/news/aes-plans-ambitious-1000-mw-expansion-in-battery-storage/392072/

U.S. Could Test Deep-Hole Nuclear Waste Burial In 2016, According To British Reports

U.S. Could Test Deep-Hole Nuclear Waste Burial In 2016, According To British Reports

Burying nuclear waste in very deep drilled holes that go below the reach of water that could return to the surface of the Earth could be given a test run in the United States in 2016, according to the University of Sheffield’s Engineering Department.

In an article posted on the British university's Web site, the university says, “the concept – called deep borehole disposal – has been developed primarily in the UK but is likely to see its first field trials in the USA next year.”

The article does not say who or what department in the United States is on board with the trial burials, but The Engineer, a British magazine, says the U.S. trial is “being run by Sandia National Laboratories for the Department of Energy.” Confirmation from Sandia could not be confirmed at the hour of this writing. Read More>>>>http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2015/04/29/u.s.-could-test-deep_2d00_hole-nuclear-waste-burial-in-2016_2c00_-according-to-british-reports-042901.aspx#.VUFPV2aKI-9

Video Highlights First Quarter Progress At V.C. Summer Construction Site

Video Highlights First Quarter Progress At V.C. Summer Construction Site

SCANA Corporation subsidiary SCE&G invites you to tour first quarter progress at the V.C. Summer Units 2 and 3 build in Jenkinsville, S.C. with a four and a half minute video that features some of heaviest lifts required for the project.

First quarter progress in 2015 featured the arrival of major components, including two steam generators that arrived by ship and rail from South Korea. The two Westinghouse AP1000 generators arrived just weeks apart in January. They weigh approximately a million pounds and measure more than 80 feet in length.

Workers also made progress on the 47CAO-1 sub-module, which is nearing completion and represents the heaviest lift of the entire operation. Standing nearby, says video host Rhonda O'Banion, is a derrick with a 7,500 ton lift capacity. It will be put to the test repeatedly before the build is complete. View Video>>>> http://nuclearstreet.com/nuclear_power_industry_news/b/nuclear_power_news/archive/2015/04/29/video-highlights-first-quarter-progress-at-v.c.-summer-construction-site-042902.aspx#.VUFPLWaKI-9

Nuclear power plants: Can't give a year to review report, says SEPA director


Nuclear power plants: Can't give a year to review report, says SEPA director

Apr 28, 2015
STOCK IMAGE KARACHI: Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa) director Naeem Mughal said that a year could not be given for those concerned about the environment to review the analytical report prepared by the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) on the twin nuclear power plants. He was responding to non-governmental organisation Shehri’s Ronald deSouza at a public hearing … (continue reading)

http://world.einnews.com/article/262510610/kA2zqsLZj0MuHB-E

Big Coal’s big scam: scar the land for profit, then let others pay to clean up George Monbiot

Big Coal’s big scam: scar the land for profit, then let others pay to clean up


http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/apr/28/big-coal-keep-it-in-the-ground-energy-opencast-mines

Wave and Tidal Energy Market Research Report - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2014 - 2020

Wave and Tidal Energy Market Research Report - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast 2014 - 2020



http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/companies/market-research-reports-biz/news/article/2015/04/wave-and-tidal-energy-market-research-report-global-industry-analysis-size-share-growth-trends-and-forecast-2014-2020

Can Block Island Unblock US Offshore Wind Power?

Can Block Island Unblock US Offshore Wind Power?

By Pete Danko
deepwater wind block island
It’s microscopic compared to the massive offshore wind farms that have been going up in European waters over the past decade, but Deepwater Wind’s Block Island project, 18 miles from mainland Rhode Island, is under construction. In the United States, that’s a first, and Jeffrey Grybowski believes the importance can’t be overstated. “This is what offshorehttp://breakingenergy.com/2015/04/28/can-block-island-unblock-us-offshore-wind-power/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=db69608c69-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-db69608c69-407304281

Safe Seismic Testing – Setting The Record Straight Part II

Safe Seismic Testing – Setting The Record Straight Part II

By Energy Tomorrow Blog
oil pump at teapot dome
Last summer we posted on the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s gentle pushback against various voices that objected to BOEM’s decision to allow safe, carefully regulated seismic testing to map offshore energy reserves in the Atlantic. The pushback apparently prompted some pushback, because last month BOEM reasserted the facts on safe seismic in its onlinehttp://breakingenergy.com/2015/04/28/safe-seismic-testing-setting-the-record-straight-part-ii/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=db69608c69-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-db69608c69-407304281

Energy Quote of the Day: On Giving Putin ‘The Valve on Nuclear Fuel’

Energy Quote of the Day: On Giving Putin ‘The Valve on Nuclear Fuel’

By petedanko
Paks nuclear power plant
Everyone knows how Europe’s dependence on Russian natural gas has been a complicating factor (to say the least) for Western political leaders in their reaction to Vladimir Putin’s Ukrainian adventures. And now energy analysts are seeing the Russian president lining up similar leverage with nuclear power, in Eastern Europe and beyond. “Gazprom cutting Ukraine’s energy justhttp://breakingenergy.com/2015/04/28/energy-quote-of-the-day-on-giving-putin-the-valve-on-nuclear-fuel/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=db69608c69-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-db69608c69-407304281

Framework For Nuclear Agreement With Iran Announced—But Still A Long Way To Go

Framework For Nuclear Agreement With Iran Announced—But Still A Long Way To Go

By Stephan Becker, Nancy Fischer, Aaron R. Hutman, Stephanie Rohrer, Christopher R. Wall | Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
Iran Begins To Fuel The Country's First Nuclear Power Station
On April 2, 2015 representatives of the United States, Britain, France, Germany, China and Russia (collectively, the “P5+1” countries) announced that they had agreed with the Islamic Republic of Iran on the Parameters for a Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action Regarding the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Nuclear Program (the “Parameters” or “Framework Agreement”).http://breakingenergy.com/2015/04/28/framework-for-nuclear-agreement-with-iran-announced-but-still-a-long-way-to-go/?utm_source=Breaking+Energy&utm_campaign=db69608c69-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f852427a4b-db69608c69-407304281

The Dual Fluid Reactor

The Dual Fluid Reactor

The Dual Fluid Reactor
Today's reactor technologies depend on solid fuel rods leading to a complex fuel cycle. The operation of liquid-fueled homogeneous reactors (i.e. molten-salt reactors) leads to a tradeoff between optimal fuel. The new reactor design is the dual fluid reactor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2KzC3LC2AIhttp://festkoerper-kernphysik.de/dfr.pdfhttp://dual-fluid-reactor.org/