Michele Kearney's Nuclear Wire

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

Saturday, December 12, 2015

How Old Is Too Old for a Nuclear Reactor?


How Old Is Too Old for a Nuclear Reactor?

The nuclear industry’s efforts to keep aging plants operating highlight questions about nuclear power’s future in the U.S.

http://www.technologyreview.com/news/544211/how-old-is-too-old-for-a-nuclear-reactor/

China’s ambition to sweep the world with nuclear technology concerning



China’s ambition to sweep the world with nuclear technology concerning

http://www.the-japan-news.com/news/article/0002621939

Indonesia Vows No Nuclear Power Until 2050

Indonesia Vows No Nuclear Power Until 2050
http://jakartaglobe.beritasatu.com/business/indonesia-vows-no-nuclear-power-2050/

Nuclear critics take aim at small reactors

Nuclear critics take aim at small reactors


http://www.gazettetimes.com/news/local/nuclear-critics-take-aim-at-small-reactors/article_4f1d5210-55e2-5189-ba4a-ab32f89dd479.html

James Hansen, father of climate change awareness, calls Paris talks 'a fraud'

James Hansen, father of climate change awareness, calls Paris talks 'a fraud'


http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/dec/12/james-hansen-climate-change-paris-talks-fraud

James Hansen, father of climate change awareness, calls Paris talks 'a fraud' | Environment | The Guardian

James Hansen, father of climate change awareness, calls Paris talks 'a fraud' | Environment | The Guardian

The Challenge of Our Lady of Guadalupe | RealClearReligion

The Challenge of Our Lady of Guadalupe | RealClearReligion

Articles: Islam: Not Just a Religion

Articles: Islam: Not Just a Religion

More than a saint, Our Lady of Guadalupe represents Mexican identity | National Catholic Reporter

More than a saint, Our Lady of Guadalupe represents Mexican identity | National Catholic Reporter

War News Updates: Pentagon Confirms That They Will Be Tracking Santa This Year

War News Updates: Pentagon Confirms That They Will Be Tracking Santa This Year

Hillary Clinton Is Whitewashing the Financial Catastrophe | RealClearPolitics

Hillary Clinton Is Whitewashing the Financial Catastrophe | RealClearPolitics

The establishment begins to wake up to voters’ terror worries | New York Post

The establishment begins to wake up to voters’ terror worries | New York Post

Paris Agreement Final Draft Released: The Vital Details

Paris Agreement Final Draft Released: The Vital Details


http://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffmcmahon/2015/12/11/paris-agreement-final-draft-released-the-vital-details/

The Nuclear Green Revolution: The ThorCon fuel Plan

The Nuclear Green Revolution: The ThorCon fuel Plan

Nuclear power still a viable option

Nuclear power still a viable option


http://citizensvoice.com/news/nuclear-power-still-a-viable-option-1.1982244

ROSATOM presented modern Russian nuclear technologies in Bolivia

ROSATOM presented modern Russian nuclear technologies in Bolivia


http://www.albawaba.com/business/pr/rosatom-presented-modern-russian-nuclear-technologies-bolivia-779790

Nuclear News Briefs for 12/12/15

Nuclear News Briefs for 12/12/15


http://neutronbytes.com/2015/12/12/nuclear-news-briefs-for-121215/

COP21: No Nuclear Power for India? Is that a Solution?


COP21: No Nuclear Power for India? Is that a Solution?


http://www.thecitizen.in/NewsDetail.aspx?Id=6120

Pacific's A-bomb refugees now face climate threat

Pacific's A-bomb refugees now face climate threat Majuro (AFP) Marshall Islands (AFP) Dec 11, 2015 - Almost 70 years ago, the people of Bikini Atoll left their homes to allow US nuclear testing, now the Pacific islanders' descendants say they must move again - because climate change has rendered their new home uninhabitable. Many of those Bikinians moved to Kili Island, which is 800 kilometres (500 miles) away but still part of the Marshall Islands archipelago. The tiny stretch of la ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Pacifics_A-bomb_refugees_now_face_climate_threat_999.html

Pakistan test-fires nuclear capable ballistic missile

Pakistan test-fires nuclear capable ballistic missile Islamabad (AFP) Dec 11, 2015 - Pakistan test-fired a nuclear-capable ballistic missile on Friday, the military said, two days after the government confirmed it would resume high-level peace talks with arch-rival India. The test is the latest in a series carried out by India and Pakistan since both demonstrated nuclear weapons capability in 1998. The military said it had fired a Shaheen III surface-to-surface ballistic ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Pakistan_test-fires_nuclear_capable_ballistic_missile_999.html

Friday, December 11, 2015

The Anti-Science, Anti-Nuclear Left

The Anti-Science, Anti-Nuclear Left


http://www.nationalreview.com/article/428358/global-warming-nuclear-power

This Is How You Decommission a Nuclear Power Plant

This Is How You Decommission a Nuclear Power Plant


http://www.bloomberg.com/news/photo-essays/2015-12-10/this-is-how-you-decommission-a-nuclear-power-plant

ANS Nuclear Cafe Update: Paris Diary (the last): When anti-nuke vandals strike, we succeeded


Paris Diary (the last): When anti-nuke vandals strike, we succeeded

By ansnuclearcafe on Dec 11, 2015 11:21 am

by Tari Marshall No more silence. That was the rallying cry of our active band of nuclear supporters at the United Nations Framework Conference on Climate Change (COP21) in Paris Continue Reading →
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Shifting the Conversation- A New Era of Nuclear Dialogue

By ansnuclearcafe on Dec 10, 2015 03:59 pm

By Jackson Harter Starting a nuclear career as a nontraditional student can be daunting. I entered the academic world in 2009 as a 25-year-old with eight years of culinary arts Continue Reading →
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A Breakthrough Announcement

A New Day for Ecomodernism

Big Changes at the Breakthrough Institute

Over a decade ago, the three of us created the Breakthrough Institute to help build a better environmental movement. The publication of “An Ecomodernist Manifesto” in April of this year represents the culmination of that effort. The manifesto has been translated by volunteers into 10 additional languages, and has become a touchstone for conversations about how to advance human development while protecting the natural environment.

Meanwhile, with the recent announcement by Bill Gates, President Barack Obama and a dozen nations that they would double global funding for energy innovation, it has become clear that the framework of climate policymaking has decisively shifted from making fossil fuels expensive to making clean energy cheap, thanks in no small measure to the work of Breakthrough Institute, Breakthrough Fellows and Senior Fellows, and our ecomodernist allies around the world.

As ecomodernism has grown and matured, it has become clear to the three of us that the movement has outgrown the organization that we created in order to help launch it. There is more to be done than a single organization can take on while maintaining the clarity and focus that is necessary to do great work. And there is an expanding need to speak with different voices to different audiences.

So we are excited to announce some big changes at Breakthrough. Effective January 1st, 2016, Peter Teague will become Breakthrough’s Interim Executive Director and Ted will become our first Director of Research. Under Peter’s leadership Breakthrough will continue its groundbreaking, paradigm-shifting research, analysis, and advocacy for an ecomodernist future.

Michael Shellenberger will leave his long-time role as President of Breakthrough to become a Breakthrough Senior Fellow. With generous support from Rachel Pritzker and Roland Pritzker of the Pritzker Innovation Fund, and input from Breakthrough friends and allies, Michael will be engaging in a strategic assessment over the coming months of what the ecomodernist movement needs to achieve its mission. In addition to growing ecomodernism, Michael will continue his deep commitment to ensuring modern energy access for developing nations and protecting and expanding nuclear energy.

The three of us are excited to continue our long-standing collaboration in new roles in service of a movement whose reach and influence is expanding rapidly around the world. We are grateful to Breakthrough’s supporters and to the ecomodernist movement. The best is yet to come.
 
— Peter, Ted, and Michael   
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FOLLOW US
WEBSITE

Do You Want Tri-Cities to Have More Nuclear Power Stations? [POLL]


Do You Want Tri-Cities to Have More Nuclear Power Stations? [POLL]



Read More: Do You Want Tri-Cities to Have More Nuclear Power Stations? | http://newstalk870.am/do-you-want-tri-cities-to-have-more-nuclear-power-stations-poll/?trackback=tsmclip

http://newstalk870.am/do-you-want-tri-cities-to-have-more-nuclear-power-stations-poll/

Toshiba asks financial firms to help with UK nuclear project cost -sources

Toshiba asks financial firms to help with UK nuclear project cost -sources


http://af.reuters.com/article/commoditiesNews/idAFL3N13X4R020151210

Indian Point 3’s Operating License is Alive and Well

Indian Point 3’s Operating License is Alive and Well


http://neinuclearnotes.blogspot.com/2015/12/indian-point-3s-operating-license-is.html

Plant Vogtle work getting further behind, experts testify

Plant Vogtle work getting further behind, experts testify


http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/metro/2015-12-10/plant-vogtle-work-getting-further-behind-experts-testify

HEALTH: A new generation of nuclear plants may require revising outdated radiation standards, experts assert -- Wednesday, December 9, 2015 -- www.eenews.net

HEALTH: A new generation of nuclear plants may require revising outdated radiation standards, experts assert -- Wednesday, December 9, 2015 -- www.eenews.net

Entergy Gets Federal Extension to Run Indian Point Reactor


Entergy Gets Federal Extension to Run Indian Point Reactor

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-12-10/entergy-gets-federal-extension-to-operate-indian-point-reactor

IEA Chief Sees No Oil-Price Recovery Until 2017

IEA Chief Sees No Oil-Price Recovery Until 2017


http://oilprice.com/Latest-Energy-News/World-News/IEA-Chief-Sees-No-Oil-Price-Recovery-Until-2017.html

Declassified U.S. Government Report Prepared a Week After Fukushima Accident: “100% of The Total Spent Fuel Was Released to the Atmosphere from Unit 4”

Declassified U.S. Government Report Prepared a Week After Fukushima Accident: “100% of The Total Spent Fuel Was Released to the Atmosphere from Unit 4”


http://www.washingtonsblog.com/2015/12/declassified-u-s-government-report-week-fukushima-accident-100-total-spent-fuel-released-atmosphere-unit-4.html

Israel successfully tests ballistic missile interceptor

Israel successfully tests ballistic missile interceptor Jerusalem (AFP) Dec 10, 2015 - Israel and the United States on Thursday successfully tested a ballistic missile interceptor as the Jewish state seeks to upgrade its defences in the face of regional threats, officials said. The trial from an Israeli test range involved the Arrow 3 interceptor, designed to shoot down missiles above the atmosphere, with Israel concerned over the potential for attacks from enemies including I ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/Israel_successfully_tests_ballistic_missile_interceptor_999.html

Pakistan facing climate 'calamity' if warnings go unheeded

Pakistan facing climate 'calamity' if warnings go unheeded Karachi (AFP) Dec 10, 2015 - Karachi, 2050: The sprawling megacity lies crumbling, desiccated by another deadly heatwave, its millions of inhabitants suffering life-threatening water shortages and unable to buy bread that has become too expensive to eat. It sounds like the stuff of dystopian fiction but it could be the reality Pakistan is facing. With its northern glaciers melting and its population surging - the coun ... morehttp://www.spacedaily.com/reports/Pakistan_facing_climate_calamity_if_warnings_go_unheeded_999.html

Energy, Infrastructure Permitting Improvement Legislation Signed By The President

Energy, Infrastructure Permitting Improvement Legislation Signed By The President
By Rob Lehman, Andrew Spielman, Raya Treiser | WilmerHale, Thursday, December 10, 2015 4:00 PM

Energy Secretary Moniz, EPA Administrator McCarthy And World Bank President Kim To Keynote ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit


Energy Secretary Moniz, EPA Administrator McCarthy And World Bank President Kim To Keynote ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit
By U.S. Department of Energy, Thursday, December 10, 2015 4:55 PM
ARPAE blog
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Energy today announced that U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy and the President of the World Bank Group Dr. Jim Yong Kim will serve as keynote speakers for the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy’s (ARPA-E) Energy Innovation Summit, which will be held from Feb.… Keep reading →http://breakingenergy.com/2015/12/10/energy-secretary-moniz-epa-administrator-mccarthy-and-world-bank-president-kim-to-keynote-arpa-e-energy-innovation-summit/?utm_campaign=Breaking+Energy+Daily+Digest&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&utm_content=24515583&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-95jQsmQN0-BzWaeCGFEaroUdsGtTuV5XM7XqY-G-CycqeiOsnE5SKAVmgUlxQ4DnzU-dyDTp0psC-QEb1rv_chvNWfHA&_hsmi=24515583

World’s most powerful fast neutron reactor starts supplying electricity to grid

World’s most powerful fast neutron reactor starts supplying electricity to grid


https://www.rt.com/news/325593-fast-neutron-nuclear-reactor/

Updated EIA survey provides data on spent nuclear fuel in the United States

Updated EIA survey provides data on spent nuclear fuel in the United States



http://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.cfm?id=24052

Islamic State oil is going to Assad, some to Turkey, U.S. official says

Islamic State oil is going to Assad, some to Turkey, U.S. official says


http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-usa-oil-idUSKBN0TT2O120151210#wDSc5QkC4VYR2Uwv.97

CFR Update: Climate Talks Extended Over Differences

Climate Talks Extended Over Differences
Divisions over an international accord to combat climate change forced France, host of the COP21 climate conference, to extend the UN negotiations by a day (France24). Overnight discussions saw discord over how to share the costs of fighting climate change (Reuters) and shift to clean energy on a global scale. Delegates also said China resisted calls, led by the United States and the European Union, for all countries to update national plans for curbing greenhouse gas emissions every five years. French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius said he is aiming for a final draft Saturday (AP).
ANALYSIS
“As diplomats here work through the final points of a sweeping new climate change accord, experts said the ultimate measure of success of the agreement will be whether it sends a clear signal to global financial investors that they should move money away from fossil fuels and toward clean-energy sources such as wind and solar power. Without that signal, there is little chance that emissions will be reduced enough to stave off the most catastrophic impacts of global warming,” writes Coral Davenport for the New York Times.
“The U.S. press, cartoonists included, has highlighted India as a hurdle at best, spoiler at worst, to achieving a strong, effective agreement. The Indian press has characterized the United States as a ‘bully’ unwilling to make deeper emissions cuts at home but harshly pressing the poor to do so, balking at more funding to help developing countries adapt to climate change, and resisting proposals for liability for future environmental damage,” writes CFR's Alyssa Ayres.
“The Paris meeting to negotiate a climate agreement is about spirit and trust as much as any specific numerical emissions target. This is because whatever the delegates are prepared to agree to in Paris will not, on its own, slow warming fast enough to keep us safe. This doesn’t mean humanity is doomed. But it does mean that negotiators need to reach an agreement that fosters a level of trust and a spirit of urgent optimism to raise our ambition after Paris, both as the Paris agreement evolves in the coming years, and, immediately, through other national and international venues,” write Mario Molina and Durwood Zaelke for CFR.

Nuclear Blogger Carnival 287, The Paris Edition

Nuclear Blogger Carnival 287, The Paris Edition


http://yesvy.blogspot.com/2015/12/nuclear-blogger-carnival-287-paris.html#.VmTIC3HuXtA.linkedin

Community Guide On Environmental Health Research Methods

The Community-Based Hazard Management Program
Research and Education fo
r Environmental Health
Community
Guide
On
Environmental
Health
Research
Methods

https://www.clarku.edu/departments/marsh/projects/community/communityguide.pdf

Irradiated

Irradiated

The hidden legacy of 70 years of atomic weaponry: At least 33,480 Americans dead

Will the nation’s new nuclear age yield more unwanted fallout?


Read more here: http://media.mcclatchydc.com/static/features/irradiated/?brand=ida#storylink=cpy

http://media.mcclatchydc.com/static/features/irradiated/?brand=ida

The False Promise of Nuclear Fusion


The False Promise of Nuclear Fusion


http://www.counterpunch.org/2015/12/11/the-false-promise-of-nuclear-fusion/

Germany launches world's largest nuclear fusion reactor

Germany launches world's largest nuclear fusion reactor

The stellarator that took 19 years to build is seen as a path to virtually limitless sources of zero-carbon electricity.



http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/12/germany-largest-nuclear-fusion-reactor-151211075659748.html

Nuclear Moisture Separator Reheaters Market - Global Market Demand, Forecasts 2020: Acute Market Reports Press Release

Nuclear Moisture Separator Reheaters Market - Global Market Demand, Forecasts 2020: Acute Market Reports

Press Release  •  Dec 11, 2015 15:27 IST


http://www.mynewsdesk.com/in/pressreleases/nuclear-moisture-separator-reheaters-market-global-market-demand-forecasts-2020-acute-market-reports-1272140?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=Alert&utm_content=pressrelease

Around 200 US Nuclear Bombs Deployed in Europe - Russian Defense Ministry

Around 200 US Nuclear Bombs Deployed in Europe - Russian Defense Ministry



http://sputniknews.com/russia/20151211/1031578589/us-nuckear-bombs-europe.html

Acute Market Reports: Nuclear Power Market 2025 - Spain Market Share, Growth

 Acute Market Reports: Nuclear Power Market 2025 - Spain Market Share, Growth
http://www.bloomberg.com/research/markets/news/article.asp?docKey=600-201512110511M2______EUPR_____fefa00000205a657_3600-1

Global Nexus Initiative Releases Policy Memo Recognizing Role and Responsibility of Nuclear Power

Global Nexus Initiative Releases Policy Memo Recognizing Role and Responsibility of Nuclear Power

Project Explores Linkages Among Climate Change Nuclear Power and Global Security


http://www.nei.org/News-Media/Media-Room/News-Releases/Global-Nexus-Initiative-Releases-Policy-Memo-Recog

Committee OK's end to nuclear power plant moratorium

Committee OK's end to nuclear power plant moratorium


http://wsau.com/news/articles/2015/dec/10/committee-oks-end-to-nuclear-power-plant-moratorium/

ENE News Update: Report: “Red Alert! Sharp increase in radiation… at Fukushima” — Levels spike 400,000% under plant — Almost 1,000,000,000 becquerels per cubic meter — TV: Officials investigating cause


Report: “Red Alert! Sharp increase in radiation… at Fukushima” — Levels spike 400,000% under plant — Almost 1,000,000,000 becquerels per cubic meter — TV: Officials investigating cause

Published: December 10th, 2015 at 4:15 pm ET
By
Email Article Email Article
150 comments


NHK World, Dec 9, 2015: Radiation spikes in Fukushima underground ducts — The operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant says levels of radioactivity in underground tunnels have sharply risen. Tokyo Electric Power Company has detected 482,000 becquerels per liter of radioactive cesium in water samples taken from the tunnels on December 3rd. That’s 4000 times higher than data taken in December last year. The samples also contained 500,000 becquerels of a beta-ray-emitting substance, up 4,100 times from the same period… They plan to investigate what caused the spike in radiation.
Rossiya Segodnya (Russian gov’t news agency) – Sputnik: Red Alert! Radiation Spike Registered Under Fukushima Nuclear Plant — A sharp increase in radiation levels was detected in one of the underground tunnels at the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, according to media reports. According to a press release issued by TEPCO, Fukushima plant’s operator, the water samples retrieved from the tunnels on December 3rd contained 482,000 becquerels per liter of radioactive cesium and about 500,000 of beta-ray-emitting substance becquerels per liter of a beta-ray-emitting substance, which is about 4,000-4,100 times higher compared to the samples taken a year ago, Japanese NHK TV channel reports.
Tokyo Electric Power Company (translated by Google), Dec 9, 2015: About the situation at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, we will inform you as follows… As part of the accumulated water survey in the trench duct that is connected to each building, it is a confirmation of the radioactivity concentration of appropriate standing water, but the waste treatment building between the contact duct taken on December 3 analytical results of stagnant water is, ensure that it is following values.

  • Cesium-134: 9.2 × 10^4 Bq/L [92,000 Bq/L]
  • Cesium-137: 3.9 × 10^5 Bq/L [390,000 Bq/L]
  • All beta: 5.0 × 10^5 Bq/L [500,000 Bq/L]
  • Tritium: 6.7 × 10^3 Bq/L [6,700 Bq/L]
Reference (December 11… 2014):
  • Cesium-134: 2.7 × 10^1 Bq/L [27 Bq/L]
  • Cesium-137: 9.4 × 10^1 Bq/L [94 Bq/L]
  • All beta: 1.2 × 10^2 Bq/L [120 Bq/L]
  • Tritium: 3.1 × 10^2 Bq/L [310 Bq/L]
According to TEPCO’s data, total cesium increased 3,984 times (~400,000%) and all beta-emitting radionuclides including strontium-90 increased 4,167 times (~420,000%).
The total concentration of radionuclides in the Dec. 3, 2015 sample is 988,700 Bq/L or 988,700,000 Bq/m^3.
See also: TV: Underground wall around Fukushima reactors started "leaning" -- Cracks developing due to rising water levels -- Problems seen along almost entire length of sea wall -- Trying to make repairs to keep groundwater from surging (VIDEO)

Thursday, December 10, 2015

Lessons From Europe: The Recipe For A High Cost Energy System | The Daily Caller

Lessons From Europe: The Recipe For A High Cost Energy System | The Daily Caller

Another View: Do not discount nuclear power's ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions


Another View: Do not discount nuclear power's ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions



http://www.reformer.com/columnists/ci_29223694/another-view-do-not-discount-nuclear-powers-ability

Nuclear pitched as the new green

Nuclear pitched as the new green


http://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/science-technology/article48767550.htmlhttp://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/science-technology/article48767550.html

Fukushima Update 12/10/15

Fukushima Update 12/10/15

No detectible radioactive cesium in Fukushima school meals for 2014-15… Iitate village to reopen its municipal office in July… No Fukushima Cesium in North America’s Pacific kelp forests in 2015… A high water contamination reading in tunnel water at Fukushima Daiichi… Minamisoma City to investigate resident’s suspicions of NRA cover-up.

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

Tehran and IAEA implement "road map" on Iran’s nuclear program — Russian Foreign Ministry

Tehran and IAEA implement "road map" on Iran’s nuclear program — Russian Foreign Ministry

More:
http://tass.ru/en/world/843094
Tehran and IAEA implement "road map" on Iran’s nuclear program — Russian Foreign Ministry

More:
http://tass.ru/en/world/843094

http://tass.ru/en/world/843094

Russia Fighting ISIS With Nuclear Warheads? Putin Warns Islamic State Group About Russian Army's Capabilities

Russia Fighting ISIS With Nuclear Warheads? Putin Warns Islamic State Group About Russian Army's Capabilities


http://www.ibtimes.com/russia-fighting-isis-nuclear-warheads-putin-warns-islamic-state-group-about-russian-2219682

After Russian Nuclear Missile Drills, Baltic Sea Access Could be Blocked By Moscow, Pentagon Fears

After Russian Nuclear Missile Drills, Baltic Sea Access Could be Blocked By Moscow, Pentagon Fears


http://www.ibtimes.com/after-russian-nuclear-missile-drills-baltic-sea-access-could-be-blocked-moscow-2219802

Westinghouse Races China for $1 Trillion Nuclear Power Prize

Westinghouse Races China for $1 Trillion Nuclear Power Prize


http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2015-12-09/westinghouse-races-china-for-1-trillion-nuclear-power-prize

US NRC Blog Update: Indian Point 3 Timely Renewal


Indian Point 3 Timely Renewal

Diane Screnci
Sr. Public Affairs Officer
Region I

It’s been more than eight years since Entergy filed an application requesting that the NRC renew the operating licenses for Indian Point Units 2 and 3. And, a final decision is still a ways off.
indianpointUnder NRC regulations, if a company submits a sufficient application for a renewed license at least five years before the expiration of the current license, then the request is considered “timely” and the facility is allowed to continue operating under its current license until the NRC issues a decision on the license renewal request.
On December 13th, Indian Point 3 will enter the period of “timely renewal.”  Entergy submitted a license renewal application for both Indian Point Units in April 2007, meeting the timeliness provision. The Unit 3 license would have expired December 12, 2015. This doesn’t mean the unit will be operating without a license. Rather Unit 3, like Unit 2 (which entered timely renewal in September 2013), will continue to operate under its existing license.
The Atomic Energy Act specifies that operating licenses can be issued for up to 40 years and allows license renewals in 20 year increments. Thus far, the NRC has issued renewed licenses to 81 reactors. Typically, it takes about 22 months for the staff to reach a decision on whether to renew a license – longer if there’s a hearing. In the case of Indian Point, though, the process has taken longer than projected, due in part to the large number of contentions the parties have raised in the hearing.
Although a final decision on the application hasn’t been reached, the NRC staff has measures in place to provide assurance the facility will continue to operate safely during this time period.  We’ll continue to carry out our extensive regulatory and oversight activities. NRC inspectors, including the three on-site Resident Inspectors and specialist inspectors from the Regional office, will continue their duties during this period, providing independent oversight of the facility on a continual basis.
In a September 28 letter to the NRC, Entergy confirmed that the Unit 3 license renewal commitments required to be in place prior to entry into the period of extended operation were complete. In October, Entergy certified that the Indian Point 3 Updated Final Safety analysis report had been updated to incorporate aging management programs for the unit. In response, that same month, we completed an inspection to review the activities Entergy has taken to prepare for operating in timely renewal and found that the processes and commitments had been properly implemented.
While it might be some time before the Commission reaches a final decision on license renewal at Indian Point, our independent oversight of the facility will continue uninterrupted while in “timely renewal.”

White House opposes legislative efforts to erase oil export ban

White House opposes legislative efforts to erase oil export ban Washington (UPI) Dec 9, 2015 - Efforts to reverse a 40-year-old ban on domestic crude oil exports through legislative action are not welcome, a White House spokesman said. Congressional leaders are working to pass a massive government funding bill before Friday, when lawmakers break for holiday recess. Included in the measure is language meant to end a ban on U.S. crude oil exports. Similar efforts to reverse ... morehttp://www.oilgasdaily.com/reports/White_House_opposes_legislative_efforts_to_erase_oil_export_ban_999.html

Why Is The US Reluctant To Bomb ISIS Oil Fields?

Why Is The US Reluctant To Bomb ISIS Oil Fields?

OIL AND GAS Why Is The US Reluctant To Bomb ISIS Oil Fields?

OIL AND GAS
Why Is The US Reluctant To Bomb ISIS Oil Fields? Washington DC (SPX) Dec 10, 2015 - There has been some revealing new information coming out recently regarding the strategy against ISIS. One aspect many find troubling is the apparent failure of U.S. and coalition forces to sufficiently target and destroy oil infrastructure located in ISIS territory, which accounts for a significant portion of the terror group's annual income. The argument goes, if we want to impact their ... morehttp://www.oilgasdaily.com/reports/Why_Is_The_US_Reluctant_To_Bomb_ISIS_Oil_Fields_999.html

As Paris summit tries to save the planet, how green is France?

As Paris summit tries to save the planet, how green is France? Paris (AFP) Dec 9, 2015 - UN climate change chief Christina Figueres may have called Paris "a beacon of hope for the world" as leaders gathered last week to begin hammering out a deal to slow global warming. But how good is the city's - and France's - environmental record? France leads the G20 group of industrialised countries in low-carbon energy, but experts point out that is only because of its massive relia ... morehttp://www.energy-daily.com/reports/As_Paris_summit_tries_to_save_the_planet_how_green_is_France_999.html

South Ukraine 2 gets green light for life extension

South Ukraine 2 gets green light for life extension
The board of the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate of Ukraine has approved the continued operation of unit 2 of the South Ukraine nuclear power plant until the end of 2025. The unit was shut down on 10 May, two days before the expiry of its design lifetime, for major upgrading over 300 days costing $114 million to enable a 10-year life extension.http://www.world-nuclear-news.org/RS-South-Ukraine-2-gets-green-light-for-life-extension-10121502.html

Attacking the "root crown" of 10 CFR 810 nuclear power plant export controls - Atomic Insights

Attacking the "root crown" of 10 CFR 810 nuclear power plant export controls - Atomic Insights

E. Idaho eyed as site for small commercial nuclear reactors - SFGate

E. Idaho eyed as site for small commercial nuclear reactors - SFGate

US investigating possible Iran missile test

US investigating possible Iran missile test United Nations, United States (AFP) Dec 8, 2015 - The United States is conducting a "serious review" into reports that Iran carried out a new round of ballistic missile testing in violation of UN resolutions, its United Nations envoy said Tuesday. If reports of testing in November are confirmed, the United States will go before the UN Security Council "and seek appropriate action," Samantha Power told journalists. "The US is conducting ... morehttp://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_investigating_possible_Iran_missile_test_999.html

Climate Change Litigation: Implications for States and Power Generators

Climate Change Litigation: Implications for States and Power Generators

Unintended Consequences from EPA Rules

Unintended Consequences from EPA Rules

Nuclear Plant Rescue Initiative Launched to Cut Operating Costs

Nuclear Plant Rescue Initiative Launched to Cut Operating Costs

E. Idaho Eyed As Site for Small Commercial Nuclear Reactors

E. Idaho Eyed As Site for Small Commercial Nuclear Reactors

Toshiba asks financial firms to help with UK nuclear project cost

Toshiba asks financial firms to help with UK nuclear project cost


http://www.money-marketuk.com/Business-and-Finance/5625-toshiba-asks-financial-firms-to-help-with-uk-nuclear-project-cost.html

Nigeria targets 1,500MW from nuclear power generation

Nigeria targets 1,500MW from nuclear power generation

http://africabusinesscommunities.com/news/nigeria-targets-1500mw-from-nuclear-power-generation.html

uclear Power in the US, Market Outlook to 2025 Industry Key Trends, Size, Growth, Shares And Forecast Research Report

uclear Power in the US, Market Outlook to 2025 Industry Key Trends, Size, Growth, Shares And Forecast Research Report


http://www.mynewsdesk.com/us/pressreleases/nuclear-power-in-the-us-market-outlook-to-2025-industry-key-trends-size-growth-shares-and-forecast-research-report-1271319?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=Alert&utm_content=pressrelease

Africa: French Nuclear Giant Areva Accused of Bribery

Africa: French Nuclear Giant Areva Accused of Bribery



http://knowledgebylanes.co.za/general-news-144550.htm/africa-french-nuclear-giant-areva-accused-of-bribery

U.S. Seeks to Avoid Ground War Welcomed by Islamic State - The New York Times

U.S. Seeks to Avoid Ground War Welcomed by Islamic State - The New York Times

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Global food system faces multiple threats from climate change

Global food system faces multiple threats from climate change Boulder CO (SPX) Dec 09, 2015 - Climate change is likely to have far-reaching impacts on food security throughout the world, especially for the poor and those living in tropical regions, according to a new international report that includes three co-authors from the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). The report, issued today at the Paris 2015 United Nations Climate Conference (also known as COP21) warns tha ... morehttp://www.seeddaily.com/reports/Global_food_system_faces_multiple_threats_from_climate_change_999.html

Iran Nuclear Deal Just Keeps Looking Worse In Every Way

Iran Nuclear Deal Just Keeps Looking Worse In Every Way



http://news.investors.com/ibd-editorials/120815-784379-iran-nuclear-deal-looking-worse-in-every-way.htm

It’s too easy to permanently close a nuclear power plant in the United States


It’s too easy to permanently close a nuclear power plant in the United States


http://atomicinsights.com/its-too-easy-to-shut-down-a-nuclear-power-plant-in-the-united-states/

A new generation of nuclear plants may require revising outdated radiation standards, experts assert

A new generation of nuclear plants may require revising outdated radiation standards, experts assert


http://www.eenews.net/stories/1060029189

Mini-reactors could crack nuclear industry's financing problem: Moniz

UPDATE 1-Russia halts Turkey nuclear work, Ankara looks elsewhere

UPDATE 1-Russia halts Turkey nuclear work, Ankara looks elsewhere

http://www.reuters.com/article/mideast-crisis-turkey-russia-nuclear-idUSL8N13Y31G20151209

Meltdown or Mother Lode (3 Nuclear Technologies and Why You Should Be Excited)

Meltdown or Mother Lode (3 Nuclear Technologies and Why You Should Be Excited)


http://www.huffingtonpost.com/steven-kotler/meltdown-or-mother-lode-3_b_7267758.html

Thorium seen as nuclear's new frontier


Thorium seen as nuclear's new frontier


http://www.sciencemag.org/content/350/6262/726.full?ijkey=f/cMPPBEQxEyM&keytype=ref&siteid=sci

Westinghouse announces Lead Cooled Fast Reactor initiative

Westinghouse announces Lead Cooled Fast Reactor initiative


http://atomicpowerreview.blogspot.com/2015/10/westinghouse-announces-lead-cooled-fast.html

Do more nukes really mean more nuclear crises? Not necessarily

Do more nukes really mean more nuclear crises? Not necessarily


http://thebulletin.org/do-more-nukes-really-mean-more-nuclear-crises-not-necessarily

Richard Branson urges Obama to back next-generation nuclear technology

Richard Branson urges Obama to back next-generation nuclear technology

Billionaire pushes for the technology in a letter to White House that says integral fast reactors are clean, inexpensive and safe

http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2012/jul/20/richard-branson-obama-nuclear-technology

China Aims to Build 40 Nuclear Power Plants in Upcoming 5 Years

China Aims to Build 40 Nuclear Power Plants in Upcoming 5 Years
http://english.cri.cn/12394/2015/12/09/2743s907608.htm

Losing upstate NY nuclear power plants could lead to higher electricity prices, study says

Losing upstate NY nuclear power plants could lead to higher electricity prices, study says


http://wrvo.org/post/losing-upstate-ny-nuclear-power-plants-could-lead-higher-electricity-prices-study-says#stream/0

Russian ready to reprocess spent Fukushima nuclear fuel

Russian ready to reprocess spent Fukushima nuclear fuel Moscow (Sputnik) Dec 08, 2015 - A Russian nuclear facility is upgrading to assist Japan to reprocess spent nuclear fuel from the Fukushima nuclear plant in the near future, the company said in a statement. The Mayak Production Association issued a report on Tuesday presented by the company's deputy general director, Sergei Kirillov, at a workshop held in Japan on November 26-27. "The upgrade of the RT-1 [assembly b ... morehttp://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/Russian_ready_to_reprocess_spent_Fukushima_nuclear_fuel_999.html

South Korea offers to participate in Czech nuclear program

South Korea offers to participate in Czech nuclear program Moscow (Sputnik) Dec 09, 2015 - South Korean President Park Geun-hye offered Wednesday to help Prague complete construction of some new units at a Czech nuclear power plant, Czech President Milos Zeman's press secretary confirmed Wednesday. Park met with her Czech counterpart on Wednesday, as part of a four-day official visit to the republic. According to the Ceske Noviny newspaper, Park offered the assistance of K ... morehttp://www.nuclearpowerdaily.com/reports/South_Korea_offers_to_participate_in_Czech_nuclear_program_999.html