Nuclear Waste
Government plans for a new generation of nuclear power plants face growing concerns the industry needs another waste repository involving a massive escalation in cost. Ministers insist they still expect only one high-level geological disposal facility (GDF) will be needed at a possible cost of £12bn but a discussion paper produced by the department of energy and climate change (DECC) indicates a second cannot be ruled out. The moves come as the British Geological Survey (BGS) and the Committee on Radioactive Waste Management (CoRWM) argue that more research is needed on whether different kinds of waste can be stored together.
Guardian 17th Nov 2008 more >>
A massive incinerator that could burn atomic waste is under consideration by the operator of the Sellafield nuclear complex. The controversial plan was outlined by an executive at Sellafield Ltd at a local conference to discuss the role of the site, which comes under private management this month. Barry Watkinson, delivery manager for external innovation at the company, said it was time to move on from the “antiquated” system of burying waste in containers and vaults.
Guardian 17th Nov 2008 more >>
New Nukes
The new energy minister will on Monday reassure nuclear companies and investors that Britain’s drive to build the next generation of nuclear power stations will continue unabated under the energy department created last month by Gordon Brown. Recessionary pressures on voters, including concerns over rising energy costs, will be cited by Mike O’Brien, the energy minister, as a central reason for backing new nuclear plants.
FT 17th Nov 2008 more >>
Radiation Monitoring
Doses of radiation in food produced near Oldbury nuclear power station and the decommissioned Berkeley plant were well within annual limits, according to the Food Standards Agency. The independent government watchdog’s programme of monitoring measures all foods produced in the vicinity of main nuclear sites to ensure it is safe to eat. Milk, fish, seafood, fruit, vegetables and honey are among foodstuffs monitored independently of tests carried out by the nuclear industry.
Bristol Evening Post 17th Nov 2008 more >>
Iran
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert called on Sunday for a stronger international campaign against Iran’s nuclear programme to “thwart it with greater force.”
Reuters 16th Nov 2008 more >>
Channel 4 News 16th Nov 2008 more >>
Renewables
A device that harnesses the power of the sea to push water uphill has been developed to provide cheap renewable electricity. The invention is designed to pump water hundreds of feet above sea level from where it can gush downhill to drive hydroelectric generators.
Times 17th Nov 2008 more >>
