This Week in Nuclear

Episode 75: Saber Rattling & Iran's Nuclear Program

John Wheeler — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 03:56:28 GMT

News outlets around the world were buzzing last week when Iran announced in a letter to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that it has built a second nuclear fuel enrichment facility deep under a mountain near the city of Qom. The UN security council appeared outraged and the US government claimed it has known of the facility for “some time.” I also discuss the upcoming first ever Thorium Energy Alliance conference. "This Week in Nuclear" Go here for detailed show notes, links, videos, other news, and More

Fast Fission#6: Join the Pro-Nuclear Meet Up on Nov 17 in Washington DC

John Wheeler — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 23:22:29 GMT

Who says blogging and podcasting has to be all work and no play? Come and join your favorite nuclear bloggers, reporters, writers and podcasters at an "underground meet up" on Tuesday, November 17 , 2009 at 6:00 PM at the Omni Hotel. Participants will include more than a dozen of today's most influential pro-nuclear voices on the Internet and in print. My sources tell me the following people have indicated they plan to attend: * Rod Adams, The Atomic Show podcast * Dan Yurman, Idaho Samizdat blog * Yours truely (John Wheeler, This Week in Nuclear) * Nancy Roth, Andrea Jennetta; Fuel Cycle Week Blog * Ted Rockwell, Learning about Nuclear Blog * William Tucker, author, Terrestrial Energy * Edward Kee, moderator of the “Nuclear Power, Next Generation Group,” at Linkedin, * Jarret Adams, Areva US blog, * Tim Chambers, Dewey Square Group, and * Dave Bradish, lead blogger, Nuclear Energy Institute * Cam Abernethy, Webmaster, Nuclear Street * Alan Rominger, North Carolina State University * Lisa Stiles, pro-nuclear activist and occasional contributor to NEI Nuclear Notes and various other blogs and podcasts * Jeff Madison of Cool Hand Nuke Word is spreading quickly and the celebrity list is growing by the day! I referred to the event as "underground" because while it is being held at the same venue as the ANS Winter Meeting, our gathering is independent of ANS. And hey, "underground"describes independence and spontaneity which is certainly the case. Plus having an 'underground meet up" sounds much cooler than saying we're having a meeting! Anyway, it is sure to be a great time. Who knows, maybe we'll do a live show! Everyone is invited - just show up! If we overflow the space we'll move to a nearby social establishment! Light refreshments are being provided by Areva and Cool Hand Nuke. Many thanks to Dan Yurman for his leadership in kicking this off!

Fast Fission #5: Is the Mainstream Media Biased Against Nuclear Energy?

John Wheeler — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 03:18:17 GMT

Do other forms of energy production get the same attention in the media as nuclear power plants? Here are some recent observations and I'll let you decide for yourself.

Fast Fission #4 - Will the USA Follow Europe and Become Reliant on Russian Natural Gas?

John Wheeler — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:09:36 GMT

Gazprom, Russia's state owned natural gas company is setting up shop in Houston, TX and has begun a very aggressive program to enter the US natural gas market. This development has far-reaching implications for US energy security and national security.

Fast Fission #3 - Nuclear Electric Cars?

John Wheeler — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 17:30:03 GMT

Will hybrid electric vehicles spell the end of the oil age? If this happens, with one-fifth of the electric grid powered from clean nuclear energy, we'll be shifting our transportation energy source from imported oil to home grown nuclear energy.

Fast Fission Podcast - Oct 4, 2009 - A Lot to Like in the Senate Climate Bill

John Wheeler — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 19:30:19 GMT

Good news! There's a lot to like in the newly released Kerry-Boxer Climate Bill. "This Week in Nuclear" Go here for detailed show notes, links, videos, other news, and More

Fast Fission News #1 - Getting Things Right

John Wheeler — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 02:30:04 GMT

I love it when the normally stuffy, conservative nuclear industry gets something right. In this case it's sponsoring the Washington Capitals, Newman Wachs Racing, and the NY Yankees!

Episode 74 - Is Nuclear Energy Renewable?

John Wheeler — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:35:40 GMT

In this episode I provide an analysis comparing the characteristics of nuclear energy against the criteria the U.S. government uses to define "renewable energy sources" to determine if nuclear energy should be considered renewable. Nuclear energy supporters get a big win in Germany, and the Indian Point 20 year life extension passes key milestones despite anti-nuclear efforts to block their license renewal. Finally, I cover some upcoming nuclear and energy industry events. "This Week in Nuclear" Go here for detailed show notes, links, videos, other news, and More

Episode 73 - Exploring Nuclear Lake

John Wheeler — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 21:27:15 GMT

Join me on a trip to Nuclear Lake in New York, the site of an early atomic research and development laboratory where an plutonium spill occurred. Anti-nuclear activists have made outrageous claims about the existence of huge mutant fish and acid-like water. Let's go check it out!

Sea Stories from aboard the USS John C. Stennis - Episode 72

John Wheeler — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 01:20:21 GMT

Sea stories from aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis. The evolution of ship propulsion systems, and why small modular nuclear reactors coupled with gas turbines will revolutionize energy production. Show notes, news, videos, blog, and more In the photo: Commander Mark S. Wheeler, USN, Supply Officer of the USS John C. Stennis (on left) and John Wheeler, host of "This Week in Nuclear"

Small Reactors and a Nuclear Vacation - Episode 71

John Wheeler — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 01:32:00 GMT

In this episode: 1. Interest in small reactors is growing 2. Where do nuclear geeks go on vacation? This Week in Nuclear show notes, videos, blog and more.

The Ultimate Weapon in the War on Carbon? - Episode 70

John Wheeler — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 18:54:21 GMT

Could small modular nuclear reactors be the ultimate weapon in the war on carbon? The impact of the social media on events in Iran, and the recent announcement by B&W that they will introduce a new small modular reactor. Could the mPower reactor be used to repower the existing coal power infrastructure with fission power? "This Week in Nuclear" Show Notes, Videos, News, and More

Young People Talk About Nuclear Careers and Interests - Episode 69

John Wheeler — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 20:12:35 GMT

And you thought that nuclear engineering and science was all about energy! Guess again! I had the opportunity to speak with several young people at the ANS conference about their interests. You'll be amazed at the broad range of fields of study they are pursuing!

Invitation to All Students Interested in Nuclear Energy - Episode 68

John Wheeler — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 15:44:41 GMT

In this first video edition of "This Week in Nuclear" John Wheeler interviews a group of students from the University of Michigan who are hosting a student conference in April 2010. The conference is open to any student in any field of study who is interested a career in the broad fields of nuclear science, engineering, technology, and energy production. Rod Adams of "The Atomic Show" co-hosts. THIS VIDEO HAS BEEN MOVED TO YOUTUBE TO SAVE SERVER SPACE AND BANDWIDTH. USE THE LINK BELOW TO SEE THE VIDEO. "This Week in Nuclear" Go here o view the video, for detailed show notes, links, videos, other news, and More

Episode 67 - Lessons from Dr. Evil

John Wheeler — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 05:56:21 GMT

Lessons from Dr. Evil "This Week in Nuclear" Show Notes, Videos, News, and More

When Leaders Lack the Knowledge to Lead - Episode 66

John Wheeler — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 19:03:42 GMT

Qualifications for effective leadership - you make the call! "This Week in Nuclear" Show Notes, Videos, News, and More

Crazy Climate Change Bill & a Bit of Nuclear History - Episode 65

John Wheeler — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 00:07:03 GMT

1. The House Releases Draft Climate Change Bill - Bad Politics at it's worst 2. Operation Sea Orbit "This Week in Nuclear" Show Notes, Videos, News, and More

Episode 64 - Nuclear Expansion Grows Near

John Wheeler — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 02:35:05 GMT

1. President Obama Promotes International Nuclear Fuel bank 2. Oldest US Nuclear Plant gets another 20 years 3. Changing face of the NRC 4. Southern Nuclear Wil "Break Ground" on new nuclear plant this summer. 5. UAE Taking Leadership in the Middle East on Peaceful Nuclear Energy 6. Check out the new website - link below! "This Week in Nuclear" Show Notes, Videos, News, and More

Episode 63 - The Straight Scoop on "Clean" vs. "Renewable" vs. "Carbon-Free" Energy

John Wheeler — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 16:57:58 GMT

Electricity prices will rise to combat climate change. How much prices will rise and how effective actions will be depends the strategy selected by the government. At the moment it looks like more pork, more money, and more politics as usual. Show Notes are at the “This Week in Nuclear” website

Episode 62 - Nuclear Energy and the Obama Administration

John Wheeler — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 00:34:56 GMT

Nuclear energy is Clean, Carbon-Free, and Cost-effective. Nuclear energy creates thousands of jobs. Nuclear energy reduces the need to import foreign oil. It should be obvious, but do you think we’ll start building new nuclear plants with President Obama in power? Show Notes are at the “This Week in Nuclear” website

Episode 61 - Westinghouse & Toshiba Lead the Race for New Nuclear in the USA

John Wheeler — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 01:49:53 GMT

Westinghouse and Toshiba are taking the lead in the race to build new nuclear units in the USA, but the French are not far behind! Despite the turmoil in the world's financial markets and tightening of credit around the globe, some savvy investors are finding value in nuclear power plants. Show Notes are at the “This Week in Nuclear” website

Episode 60: Energy Bailout Showdown - Solar vs. Wind vs. Nuclear

John Wheeler — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 21:14:53 GMT

Show Notes

Episode 59: (Pickens Plan - Wind + Nuclear) = Success

John Wheeler — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:19:10 GMT

1. Credit Crisis Impact on Energy - Winners and Losers 2. Nuclear Energy Myth Busting 3. Picken Plan Rev. 1

Episode 58 - Power Plant Costs are Skyrocketing. Here's Why.

John Wheeler — Tue, 27 May 2008 01:36:54 GMT

The cost of raw materials used in the construction of wind, coal and nuclear power plants is rising rapidly. Because nuclear plants use fewer of these natural resources than either wind or coal power plants, as costs rise nuclear plants gain an increasing construction cost advantage. 1. Cost of Steel Impacts Power Plant Construction Costs 2. Wall Street Recognizes Nuclear Energy's Potential Impact of Steel Price Increases on New Power Plant Costs

This Week in Nuclear Show Notes ClearTrend Consulting

Wind Energy Myths

John Wheeler — Sat, 03 May 2008 03:13:47 GMT

1. Shell Pulls Out of UK Wind Project 2. Davis Besse Engineer Gets Probation 3. US Government Perpetuates Myth

This Week in Nuclear Show Notes ClearTrend Consulting

Episode 56 - April 27, 2008

John Wheeler — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 01:20:00 GMT

1. Entergy's Bold Move to Create an All-Nuclear Energy Company 2. Vermont's Peter Shumlin Embarrasses the State

Entergy Nuclear

This Week in Nuclear Show Notes

ClearTrend Consulting

Episode 55 - April 20, 2008

John Wheeler — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:34:48 GMT

1. British Investment in Nuclear Energy Pays Off Big - Again! 2. Nuclear Plants Continue to Operate Safely Through 5.2 Magnitude Earthquake 3. Will New Jersey Get In the Game? 4. Russia to Power Lithuania When Ignalina-2 Shuts Down

This Week in Nuclear Show Notes

ClearTrend Consulting

Episode 54 - Happy Nuke Year!!

John Wheeler — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 16:09:34 GMT

HAPPY NUKE YEAR! Here's a special edition of "This Week in Nuclear" Rod Adams of "The Atomic Show" Podcast, along with co-Nuke Kelly Taylor and I decided to bring in 2008 with as a group. You'll also find our discussion on "The Atomic Show" (link below). Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. The Atomic Show (This audio file was remixed at 2010 hrs on 12/31/07 to improve sound level. Please download the new version.) ClearTrend LLC

Episode 53 - December 22, 2007

John Wheeler — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 01:59:50 GMT

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!! 1. Bruce Power Enters Deal with Energy Alberta 2. The European Union Endorses Nuclear Energy 3. Canada Joins GNEP 4. Russia and USA are Resolving Uranium Trade Dispute 5. Russia delivers fuel to Bushehr Plant in Iran 6. India / USA Nuclear Deal Struggles 7. USA New Nuclear Developments 8. Rock Legend & Humanitarian Bob Geldof Endorses Nuclear Energy Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. Buy the BEST OF THE BOOMTOWN RATS here

This Week in Nuclear #52

John Wheeler — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 22:50:43 GMT

Have you ever heard of "The Union of Concerned Scientist?" If they were really "concerned," they would be making sure their policies were based in scientific facts rather than in a political agenda. They got the ear of "USA Today" this week, but listen to the show as I point out the blatant errors, miss-information and bias in the article.

This Week in Nuclear #51 - Dec 8, 2007

John Wheeler — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 15:45:50 GMT

1. Areva and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Form New Partnership 2. China Awards $20 Billion Contract to Areva for Two EPRs plus Fuel 3. EDF Begins Construction of new EPR at Flamanville, France 4. Dominion Resources Applies for COL for North Anna ESBWR 5. US Intelligence Reverses Position on Iran’s Nuclear Program 6. NY Politicians Continue Assault on Indian Point Nuclear Plant 7. Debunking Andrew Cuomo and Elliot Spitzer 8. An overview of Seismic Design Criteria for Nuclear Plants 9. The “Non-Threat” of Nuclear Plant Terrorism 10. A summary of Anti-Nuclear legislation proposed by Hillary Clinton This Week in Nuclear Website

This Week in Nuclear Amazon Store

This Week in Nuclear #50 - Dec 1, 2007

John Wheeler — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 18:09:22 GMT

1. Andrew Cuomo Continues Dad's Anti-Nuclear legacy 2. Spano Boycotts Emergency Training - Who cares, they rarely play anyway! Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog

Episode 49 - Sept. 30, 2007

John Wheeler — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 21:54:05 GMT

1. First COL application Filed in USA for 2 new nuclear units. 2. Rep. Ed Markey's (D-MA) On-Going War on Nuclear Energy 3. CNN's Anti-Nuclear Bias 4. Nuclear Plants Perform "Better than expected" in Major Earthquake 5. Letters from Listeners Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog

Episode 48 - Sept. 16, 2007

John Wheeler — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 01:45:47 GMT

1. The Jane Fonda Effect 2. Iran's Atoms for Peace Program 3. Vermont Supreme Court Throws Out Anti-nuclear Argument 4. New College Courses Focus on Nuclear Careers

Episode 47

John Wheeler — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 22:22:24 GMT

1. Browns Ferry Unit 1 is Online! 2. Brazil to Resume Angra-3 Project 3. UK Energy White Paper Calls for Nuclear Build 4. Anti-Nuclear Groups Continue Vermont Yankee Tax Battle 5. Tornado Warnings Cause Electricity Price Spike 6. USA Today Story Generates Buzz 7. More Coal Miners Die, but who’s paying attention? Links Show Notes Utility Worker Shortages

This Week In Nuclear #46 - May 13, 2007

John Wheeler — Mon, 14 May 2007 02:19:13 GMT

This is the video podcast that contains the video discussed in Episode 45.

This Week In Nuclear #45 - May 13, 2007

John Wheeler — Mon, 14 May 2007 02:09:26 GMT

In my last show I mentioned the new informational video designed to inform young people about careers in nuclear science, engineering and technology. In this show I'm going to do something a little different - we're going to listen to the sound track of the video, then I have a panel of experts from he target audience who will critique the video ad share their thoughts on it. So, without further delay…lights..cameras..action! Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. Nuclear Workforce Info Video

Episode 44 - May 9, 2007

John Wheeler — Thu, 10 May 2007 01:22:01 GMT

1. Australia will change nuclear laws to allow plants 2. Queensland law bans nuclear plants 3. Iran’s former nuclear negotiator arrested 4. US Engineer Accused of Taking Codes to Iran 5. US and Japan sign nuclear power pact 6. India/US Deal to be approved soon 7. Governor Spitzer Flip-Flops on Indian Point 8. Vermont Wants to Renege on Tax Deal with Vermont Yankee 9. Areva & Constellation Announce New Nuclear Plant Location 10. NJ Sues over Oyster Creek Decision 11. US Supreme Court Closes Coal Emissions Loophole Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. Nuclear Workforce Info Video

This Week in Nuclear #43 - April 24, 2007

John Wheeler — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 23:25:25 GMT

1. Great Barrier Reef in Trouble - Coal Plants to Blame? 2. Resource for Pebble Bed Reactor Info 3. Financing Looks Better for New Nuclear in USA 4. Two Early Site Permits Approved 5. China added 100 GW in 2006 6. Nuclear sets worldwide records in 2006. 7. Alternate Energy Holdings signs land deal. 8. There is no Uranium shortage! 9. New Fermi Reactor? Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. Center for Energy Workforce Development 4. Pebble Bed Reactor Blog

This Week in Nuclear #42 - Feb 2, 2007

John Wheeler — Sat, 03 Feb 2007 04:28:59 GMT

1. Tactics by Australia's Anti-Nuclear Groups 2. No Hudson River Strontium from Indian Point 3. Water Purification via Nuclear Energy in Pakistan 4. More Energy Concerns in Eastern Europe 5. US Supreme Court Refuses to Hear PG&E Appeal Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. Support the show by shopping here

This Week in Nuclear #41

John Wheeler — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 03:22:54 GMT

An Interview with Donald Gillispie, the President and CEo of Alternate Energy Holdings. We discuss: 1. Plans for a new Reactor in Idaho 2. What's different about this new nuclear plant project. 3. Other energy technologies. 4. The Urban Mini-reactor. "This Week in Nuclear is ONE YEAR OLD! Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. Support The Show By Shopping Here

This Week in Nuclear #40 - December 22, 2006

John Wheeler — Sat, 23 Dec 2006 04:06:35 GMT

In this episode I focus on the "Henry J. Hyde United States-India Peaceful Atomic Energy Cooperation Act of 2006." Some specific topics include: 1. What's in the Agreement? 2. Who is critical of the agreement and why? 3. The politics behind President Bush's "signing agreement" 4. What it all means to the USA and India Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home Page 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. Support The Store By Shopping Here

This Week in Nuclear #39 - Dec 19, 2006

John Wheeler — Wed, 20 Dec 2006 04:48:19 GMT

1. Westinghouse Wins Bid to Build 4 AP1000 Reactors in China 2. The USA Approves the India Nuclear Cooperation Bill 3. Russian Parliament Approves Nuclear Restructuring 4. Virginia Politicians Bow to Antinuclear Pressure 5. New Nuclear Plants to Support Developing Economies 6. Nuclear Plants for Load Following and Peaking 7. Alternative Energy Holdings Intends to Build New Nuclear Plant 8. Fresno, California Considering Nuclear Energy Solution 9. Lochbaum Fails to Justify Claims with Out of Date Study 10. Rudy Giuliani Speaks Out for Indian Point License Renewal Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home PAge 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. Support The Store By Shopping Here

This Week in Nuclear #38 - Nov 25, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 26 Nov 2006 02:00:51 GMT

1. Australia’s Nuclear Energy Report 2. Nuclear Energy is 1000 times safer than Coal, Oil, and Hydro Power 3. The Myths and Realities of Solar and Wind Energy 4. Anti-Nuclear Singer Elected to US Congress 5. John Hall’s Report Lacking in Key Facts 6. Anti-Nuclear Bloggers Support John Hall 7. Indian Point’s Containments Among the Safest 8. Listen to the show at (510) 248-0360 9. Leave a voice mail at (206) 984-3654 Go To My Web Site Here

This Week in Nuclear #37 - Nov 25, 2006

John Wheeler — Sat, 25 Nov 2006 15:05:09 GMT

Get the Presentation Here This is the audio from the panel discussion I participated in with Rod Adams and Eric McErlain at the American Nuclear Society 2006 Winter Meeting in Albequerque, NM. In this episode you'll hear Rod Adams and I discussing the new media, blogging, podcasting, and sharing the truth about nuclear energy using these fantastic new media forms. The panel discussion was more than 2 hours long, so I was not able to include Eric's comments (the audio on Eric's part was not as clear). Also, the session was facilitated by Lisa Stiles-Shell. Nice job, Lisa!

This Week in Nuclear #36 - Nov 19, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 19 Nov 2006 20:57:06 GMT

1.The GE Hitachi Deal 2.2006 World Energy Outlook 3.An Overview of How Laws are Passed in the USA 4.How will the new congress affect the US Nuclear Industry? 5.Audio from the Chairmen of the Senate Energy Committee 6.Podcast News 7.Call my voice mail at (206) 984-3654 8.Welcome to New Listeners from Around the World! 9.My ANS Presentation 10.How you can support the show Links: 1. This Week in Nuclear Home PAge 2. Show Transcript and Blog 3. Support The Store By Shopping Here

This Week in Nuclear #35 - Nov 5, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 06 Nov 2006 02:12:11 GMT

This is a special pre-election day show. Make your voice heard and GET OUT AND VOTE!!

This Week in Nuclear #34 - Nov 4, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 05 Nov 2006 05:23:31 GMT

Visit My New Website at thisweekinnuclear.com ! 1. Russia’s Nuclear Program is Building Steam 2. Atomstroyexport Wins Belene Bid 3. Russia to Consolidate Nuclear Businesses 4. Six More Mideast Nations to Build Nuclear Plants 5. Australia’s PM Howard Pro-Nuclear Remarks 6. OPAL Reactor Reaches Full Power 7. Japan Begins Reactor Fuel Reprocessing 8. Get my podcast by cell phone.

This Week in Nuclear #33 - October 27, 2006

John Wheeler — Sat, 28 Oct 2006 01:47:39 GMT

1. Cigar Lake Mine 2. Greenpeace Files EU Complaint Against Olkiluoto Nuclear Plant 3. Yet another nuclear plant in China – and it’s a whopper! 4. Russia runs into technical snags at Iran’s nuclear plant 5. Russia blocks UNSC Sanctions on Iran – fear lost revenue 6. FPL and Constellation Merger is Officially Dead 7. World Utility Leaders Promote Voluntary Greenhouse Gas Emissions 8. Dr. Alvin M. Weinberg, Nuclear Pioneer, dies at 91 Links: 1. Cigar Lake Mine Flood 2. World Sustainable Energy Report

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 32 - October 26, 2006

John Wheeler — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 18:31:20 GMT

Step Back in History for the 1953 Animated Film "A is for Atom" Press the "Play" Button Above to play the movie. Press the "play Buttton Below to play the podcast.

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 31- October 21, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 22 Oct 2006 03:46:59 GMT

Look for me at the ANS Annual Winter Conference November 12-16, 2006!

1. The Toshiba/Westinghouse Deal is Complete 2. Do NRC Fines Really Work? 3. UK Anti-Nukes To Eat Cold Breakfast 4. Russia's Nuclear Expansion 5. British Energy's Financial Woes 5. Apex, NC Benefits from Nuclear Emergency Planning 6. Areva & Mitsubishi Form Alliance 7. Germany's Energy Crises Read my Show Notes Here

My Steam Tables for Palm PDAs Steam Tables for Palm OS

This Week in Nuclear #30 - Oct. 15, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 16 Oct 2006 02:47:54 GMT

1. Listener Email 2. The TMI Myth - Myth Busting, Nuclear Style 3. Nuclear Powered Automobiles? 4. Why Iran Won’t Get Sanctions that Hurt 5. Is Al Gore a closet nuclear supporter? 6. Nuclear Waste Fund Basics 7. What’s in a name? Links: Starvid’s Paper Al Gore in Australia Nuclear Waste Policy Steam Tables for Palm OS

This Week in Nuclear #29

John Wheeler — Thu, 12 Oct 2006 05:12:04 GMT

Hillary is at it Again! Election Year Politics, tritium, and Indian Point.

This Week in Nuclear #28 - October 7, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 08 Oct 2006 23:30:32 GMT

Look for me at the ANS Annual Winter Conference November 12-16, 2006!

1. Shifting political climate in Europe favors nuclear energy expansion. 2. Texas may become the spearhead for new nuclear construction in the USA. 3. Russia continues making reactor and nuclear fuel deals. 4. Egypt reactivates their nuclear energy program. 5. The UCS Report – same old story. Can't they do better? 6. US nuclear plants show huge improvements in safety, cost, and performance since the TMI accident. 7. Upcoming industry meetings and conferences.

Links to stories we discussed this week: ANS Winter Meeting Nov 12-16, 2006 CONTE COnference Feb 4-7, 2007

Tools for Nuclear Geeks (like me!): Steam Tables for Palm OS

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 27 - Sept. 16, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 17 Sep 2006 03:13:29 GMT

1. Australia's 4th Uranium Mine to open in 2008 2. India's Tarapur-3 Reactor Goes On Line 3. Vietnam is Concerned about Nuclear Workforce 4. Contracts Awarded for New Units in S. Korea 5. Big Rock Point Returned to "green field" condition. 6. The Arak D2O Plant 7. Iran Ignores UNSC Deadline 8. TXU to Build More Nuclear Plants 9. Fluor Offers to Buy British Nuclear Group

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 26 - Aug 24, 2006

John Wheeler — Thu, 24 Aug 2006 23:20:39 GMT

1. Debunking the Green Party - It's Just too easy! 2. Bruse Power May Add Two Units in Ontario 3. Amarillo Power Talking about Two ABWRs 4. US Study on Hydrogen Production 5. Southern Company Files for Early Site Permit 6. Iran's Continuing Delay Tactics 7. Trituim - Drink it for Year with No ill Affects! 8. USA Public Support for Nuclear Keeps Rising 9. Browns Ferry 1 On Schedule for May '07 Start-up 10. Switzerland May Get New Reactors 11. Russia and France Team Up for Bulgarian Reactor 12. Taiwan to Resume Lungmen Construction

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 25 - Aug 12, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 13 Aug 2006 04:17:18 GMT

Special Guest David Bradish of the Nuclear Energy Institute! Show Notes Are Here

Other News: 1. Local Government Trying to Attract New Nuclear Plant 2. GE Ordering Large Forgings for New Nuclear Plants 3. BWX Tecnologies Ramps up Nuclear Capabilities in Indiana 4. Iran Threatens to Cut back Oil Production 5. GNEP Gaining Momentum 6. China and Pakistan To Close Deal for New Nukes 7. David and I Discuss the Economics of Nuclear Energy

Links to stories we discussed this week: The Out-of-Date MIT Study The Marketplace.Org Report NEI Website

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 24 - Aug 6, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 07 Aug 2006 02:07:27 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Iran Scolded at UN Security Council 2. US report on recycling used fuel. 3. US utility to complete reactor? 4. Russia Boosts Nuclear Spending 5. New Russia-Kazakh agreements. 6. More New Nuclear Plants in China 7. US House of Representatives Approves India agreement. 8. Nigeria to Build Its First Nuclear Plant 9. Constellation's Bold Move Show Transcript

This Week in Nuclear #23 - July 23, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 23 Jul 2006 16:40:09 GMT

Episode 23 Transcript is Here

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Olkiluoto Schedule Slips Now at One Year 2. Texas Utilities Building 11 Polluting Coal Plants 3. Wayne Leonard Named Chairman of the Board at Entergy 4. NY Times “Atomic Balm” Story 5. Nuclear Energy’s Role Emphasized at G8 6. Russia and China join advanced reactor project. 7. Nuclear performs in US heat wave. 8. Long-Awaited UK Energy Review 9. Washington Group International to Build National Enrichment Facility 10.Energy and War

Links to stories we discussed this week: NY Times "Atomic Balm" Story UK Energy Review Full Text My Show Transcript

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 22 - July 16, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 02:08:18 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Energy Policy Focus 2. President Bush talks about reprocessing used fuel 3. Climate Change and Air Pollution 4. How Much "Nuclear Waste" is There? 5. Update on Asia's Nuclear Plans 6. NRG Energy to Build Two ABWRs at South Texas Project 7. LES Gets a License for New Enrichment Facility 8. Competition for Talent is Heating Up 9. Entergy to Buy Palisades 10. Entergy a Model for Voluntary CO2 Emissions

Links to stories we discussed this week: The Watt Podcast The Atomic Show Constellation CEO Letter to NRC

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 21 - June 10, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 11 Jun 2006 01:04:04 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Nuclear Energy Debate Heats up in Australia 2. The Facts of Nuclear Energy in Australia 3. Britain and France Sign Nuclear Cooperation Agreement 4. Mitsubishi to Market the Advanced PWR in the USA 5. Russia will not renew the Megatons to Megawatts program in 2013 6. US Dept of Commerce Ruling on Potential Russian Uranium Dumping 7. National Academy of Science Report Supports Keeping Indian Point Running

Links to stories we discussed this week: National Academy of Science Report on Indian Point Australian Air Pollution Deaths

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 20 - June 2, 2006

John Wheeler — Fri, 02 Jun 2006 20:24:54 GMT

Look for me at the ANS Annual Conference June 4-8, 2006!

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. The Ball is in Iran's Court 2. FPL/Constellation Merger in Trouble 3. Constellation and EDF Sign MOU for EPR 4. Seabrook Power Uprate Approved 5. UK Makes Moves Towards New Nuclear 6. Palo Verde Units 5 and 6? 7. President Bush Visits Limerick 8. Russia's Breeder Reactor Funding Approved 9. Australia's Study Prove Nuclear is Economic 10. GE and Silex Reach Agreement for New Enrichment Facility 11. Browns Ferry Reactors get another 20 years Links to stories we discussed this week: New Show Web Address Iranians Face Tough Choice ANS Annual Meeting

Episode 19 - May 31, 2006

John Wheeler — Thu, 01 Jun 2006 21:19:11 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. My Appearance on "The Watt" PodCast 2. Why Natural Gas Price Affects the Cost of Electricity? 3. Where does the USA get it's uranium? 4. Life Cycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Nuclear are very low 5. New URL for the Show http://thisweekinnuclear.com 6. Visit me at the ANS Annual Meeting 7. Comments from Listeners about Iran 8. New Map of PodCast Listeners

Links to stories we discussed this week: The Watt PodCast Life Cycle Emissions Study #1 Life Cycle Emissions Study #2 Life Cycle Emissions Study #3 Starvid's Articles

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 18 - April 29, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 30 Apr 2006 02:14:32 GMT

1. Nuclear Industry Pandemic Flu Preparations 2. Palisades Unintentional Radiation Exposures 3. Security Officers Find Cash on Truck Entering Beaver Valley 4. Iran Update 5. Areva Continues China Bid 6. Green Leadership of Nuclear Coalition 7. India's Nuclear Growth 8. Australia to Increase Uranium Exploration 9. Reuters Story Misleads Public 10. Public Opinion in Europe Going Pro-Nuclear 11. US and Russia Talking Nuclear Deal 12. S. Korea Breaks Ground on New Units 13. Kewanee Declares "Alert"

Links to stories we discussed this week: North American Young Generation in Nuclear Reuters News Story

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 17 - April 23, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 23 Apr 2006 20:52:01 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. India Expands Uranium Exploration 2. Saudi Arabia Raises Their Estimate of Uranium Reserves 3. UK Leadership Hinting at New Nuclear 4. Nuclear's Role in Ontario's Energy Future 5. Bulgaria's $2.5 Billion Economic Loss 6. Turkey Selects Site for First Nuclear Plant 7. Nuclear Engineering Enrollment Up in US Universities 8. Careers in Nuclear & The Talent Shortage 9. Greenpeace's Alternative View 10. Greenpeace Founder Strongly Supports New Nuclear

Links to stories we discussed this week: 1. Dr. Patrick Moore Speaks Out for New Nuclear 2. Careers in the Nuclear Industry

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Episode 16 - April 11, 2006

John Wheeler — Wed, 12 Apr 2006 11:18:01 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Turkey Point Offers $100,000 Reward 2. FPL Announces Plans to Build New Nuclear 3. FPL Acquisition of Constellation in Trouble 4. Japan Delays Construction of Two Nuclear Units 5. USA and Ukraine Sign Nuclear Regulatory Agreement 6. US NRC Chairman to Retire in June 7. India/US Deal Gains Support in the US Senate 8. Australia Leaders Hinting of Possible Shift in Policy 9. Taiwan to get Uranium from Australia 10. Pakistan Setting up New Nuclear Agency 11. Iran Update (Much to do about nothing) 12. Hillary is at it Again!

Links to some stories we discussed this week: Indian Point Performance Constellation FPL Merger Trouble

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 15 - April 5, 2006

John Wheeler — Sat, 08 Apr 2006 03:57:49 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Entergy One Step Closer to an Early Site Permit 2. Turkey Point Media Hysteria 3. UN Security Council Scolds Iran 4. New Reactor Begins Operation in Australia 5. Russia is Putting the Hard Sell on China and India 6. Vermont Yankee Cleared to Raise Power 7. The 27th Anniversary of TMI Accident 8. China and Australia in Uranium Deal 9. Media Swarms Over Lost Keys in Germany 10. Listener Letters & Thanks

Links to stories we discussed this week: Three Mile Island Info Grand Gulf Early Site Permit UN Security Council Resolution Michael Rennhack's www.nukeworker.com Web Site Photo of wildflowers at the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant courtesy of Jim Zimmerlin of Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Avila Beach, California.

Go Here for Show Notes & Links

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 14 - March 26, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 27 Mar 2006 16:23:32 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Wilderness Area Blocks Used Fuel Transport Route 2. Crazy Antinuclear Claims in Michigan 3. NRC Task Force to Review Tritium Leaks 4. Calloway Nuclear Plant Works Two Years without a Lost Work-day Injury 5. Iran President Claims They Will Achieve "Nuclear Victory" 6. Lots of Smoke in the Press over Japan Incinerator Fire 7. Another Frivolous Lawsuit by the State of Nevada 8. Westinghouse to Expand and Hire 2,500 9. Canada's AECL Forms Partnership to Build New Plants 10. Since when are Japanese Judges Expert Seismologists?

Links to stories we discussed this week: 1. NRC Task Force Charter

2. Show Notes and Web Site

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 13 - March 19, 2006

John Wheeler — Wed, 22 Mar 2006 04:46:20 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Iran Update 2. US / India Deal Presented to US Congress 3. New Reactors for Mexico 4. Uranium Prices Climb Higher 5. Pakistan Plans Two More Units 6. Leadership Change at Russian Nuclear Company 7. Duke and Southern Announce Site for New Reactors 8. Braidwood Tritium Leaks get Legal Attention 9. Does Russian Nuclear Expansion Mean More Chernobyl-type RBMKs?

Links to stories we discussed this week: NY Times Story by Matt Wald RBMK Information

This Week in Nuclear - Episode 12 - March 12, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 13 Mar 2006 05:15:29 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Iran Update and Proof They're Lying 2. India and USA Nuclear Cooperation Deal 3. Russia's Nuclear Plan 4. New Reactor in Japan Goes On-Line 5. Baltic States Agree to Build New Plant 6. Libya and France Close to Nuclear Deal - should we worry? 7. South Africa Suspects Sabotage 8. Tritium Issue Gaining Momentum in USA 9. Vermont Yankee Power Uprate Approved 10. TVA and Southern Company In Talks

Links to stories we discussed this week: NPR PodCast on PBMR The Atomic Show How Iran Duped the West

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 11 - February 26, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 27 Feb 2006 01:16:44 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Russia and Iran Continue Negotiations 2. More Russia Deals 3. China to Build 200MW Pebble Bed Reactor 4. Canada's CNSC has Talent Shortage 5. India and US Talks Continue 6. Georgia Power asks for Rate Increase for New Plant Work 7. Private Fuel Storage gets a COL from the NRC 8. Constellation Aims to Overtake Competitors 9. A Tough Week at Exelon

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 10 - February 20, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 20 Feb 2006 20:09:05 GMT

Check Out This Photo of an Operator at the Controls of a Nuclear Plant in India. Does anything catch your eye? Share your thoughts and post a comment here!

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Iran Update 2. India & USA Nuclear Deal 3. Yet Another New Reactor Project in China 4. Utah Representatives Want a Nuclear Plant 5. Duke Nearing Site Announcement 6. US NRC to Impose Complex Work Hour Limitations 7. President's Weekly Radio Address Focuses on Nuclear Energy

Links to stories we discussed this week: Iran May Already Have a Nuclear Warhead President Bush's Weekly Radio Address

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 9 - February 12, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 13 Feb 2006 02:58:04 GMT

Welcome to This Week In Nuclear, the only PodCast and Internet Radio Show dedicated to nuclear industry news, facts and commentary!

Take A look At My New Construction Status Chart!

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. World Record Nuclear Output in 2005 2. The US/India Nuclear Deal 3. Iran Update 4. South Africa Faces Power Shortages 5. Wales Wants Nuclear Plant Life Extension 6. The US Global Nuclear Energy Partnership 7. Two New AP1000's at VC Summer Site 8. Oyster Creek Anti-Nuclear Focus is Flawed 9. NRC Outlook and Concerns

Links to stories we discussed this week: Global Nuclear Energy Partnership National Academies Study

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 8 - Feb 7, 2006

John Wheeler — Fri, 10 Feb 2006 01:47:07 GMT

Stories we cover in this week’s show include:

US nuclear utilitiues report earnings
Anti-nuclear protestor returns from the dark side
FPL new construction rumors
Iran Update & IAEA Resolution
New Construction Moves ahead in Bulgaria and Lithuania
US and Russia Nuclear Deal in the works
More life extensions

Links:

Music courtesy of Bob Hughes and the PodSafe Music Network

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 7- January 29, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 30 Jan 2006 03:02:38 GMT

Help us win the PodCast Challenge!!! Vote Here >>>>>>>>>>>

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News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. An update on Iran 2. The US and Indian close to nuclear deal 3. More Reactors in China 4. Enercon Selected for another COL application 5. New Reactor at Plant Vogtle Site 6. Is Westinghouse REALLY worth $5.4 Billion? 7. Where are the nuclear industry jobs? 8. President Bush to promote nuclear energy

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 6 - January 23, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 23 Jan 2006 22:15:10 GMT

SPECIAL REPORT! There's a winning bid for Westinghouse Nuclear, and the amount will amaze you! Also, Progress Energy announces where it will seek a license to build two new nuclear units.

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 5 - January 22, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 22 Jan 2006 18:28:24 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. The US Energy Bill and the Race to Build New Nuclear Plants 2. INPO-Style Plant Evaluations Start in Japan 3. Iran Up-date 4. Foreign Material causes damage to Koeberg Main Turbine Generator 5. A bit on the Pebble Bed Reactor 6. China's New Nuclear Museum 7. Greenpeace Loses a Court Battle in Bulgaria 8. Massive Earthquake Leaves Japanese Reactor Unharmed 9. Dept. of Justice Indictments for the Davis Besse Event.

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 4 - January 15, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 15 Jan 2006 06:28:44 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. The Problem with Iran 2. Lithuania wants to keep their RBMK reactor running longer 3. Harry Reid and John Ensign, and their nutty "Take Title" Bill 4. Hillary singles out Indian Point for political gain 5. Seabrook gets a license extension 6. Vermont Yankee 20% power up-rate passes important milestone 7. An overview of the Canadian nuclear industry 8. Growing support for new nuclear plants in UK 9. Ukraine talks of enriching their own fuel 10. Borselle gets a license extension 11. More opinions on why governments are reluctant to support nuclear energy Links to stories we discussed this week: Rod's Web Site

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 3 - January 8, 2006

John Wheeler — Sun, 08 Jan 2006 22:13:06 GMT

Welcome to This Week In Nuclear, the only PodCast and Internet Radio Show dedicated to nuclear industry news, facts and commentary!

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. The on-going trouble with Iran. 2. Russia's recent curtailment of the natural gas supply in Europe is leading Germany to rethink the phase-out of nuclear power plants. 3. Finally, we'll summarize the current state of new nuclear plant construction in the United States.

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 2 - January 1, 2006

John Wheeler — Mon, 02 Jan 2006 13:44:42 GMT

Welcome to This Week In Nuclear, the only PodCast and Internet Radio Show dedicated to nuclear industry news, facts and commentary!

Happy New Year! This is going to be a great year for advancing the safe use of nuclear energy around the world!

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Pakistan begins construction of Chashma-2, 2. Westinghouse gains NRC final certification for the AP1000 reactor plant design, 3. Duke and Progress Energy are close to announcing where they will build new plants, and 4. Leguna Verde decides to perform a 20% power uprate. 5. We'll also discuss public perception of the safety of nuclear power.

Links to stories we discussed this week: Position Paper on The Safety of Nuclear Power Reactors Safety Statistics from OSHA

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This Week in Nuclear - Episode 1 - December 26, 2005

John Wheeler — Tue, 27 Dec 2005 16:03:56 GMT

News & Topics We Discuss in This Show Include: 1. Point Beach gets another 20 years 2. China awards contracts for two new nuclear units 3. two more companies enter the bidding war for Westinghouse

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Introduction to This Week in Nuclear

John Wheeler — Tue, 27 Dec 2005 15:56:19 GMT

Welcome to This Week in Nuclear. I'm John Wheeler and this is my new PodCast aimed at bringing you current events, facts, and opinions related to the Nuclear Power Industry. Here we'll focus on the use of nuclear energy power to produce electricity (as opposed to nuclear weapons). Join me as we enter the new dawn of Nuclear Power. We'll keep abreast of the news, explore the technology, and learn about career opportunities available now and in the coming years. Click on the button below to play the PodCast