New Clean Energy Act Proposes More Support For Nuclear
17 Nov 2009
US Senators Alexander and Webb introduced the Clean Energy Act of 2009 that proposes to develop efficient clean energy technologies to meet America’s thirst for energy, reduce carbon emissions, invigorate the economy and create American jobs. Introduced as a simpler and achievable alternative to the proposed climate bills, is it just a messaging bill?

Design and Licensing Curveball— Excitement with the AP1000
13 Nov 2009
Nuclear reactor vendor Westinghouse was thrown a design and licensing curveball that raise new safety and regulatory risk issues that could trip up smooth deployment of its Generation III AP1000. The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission had questions about the revised AP1000 shield building? Will potential projects see consequential changes to the reactor deployment schedule?

New Merkel Coalition Breathes Life Back Into German Nuclear
15 Oct 2009
A new government coalition is likely to reverse 2002 legislation that sought to shut down the nation's nuclear power infrastructure by 2022. Prospects now appear promising that existing plant life may be extended to help the nation meet its carbon and renewable energy goals.

Iran's new enrichment facility garners global interest
30 Sep 2009
Iran's outing of its additional Qum enrichment facility has focused global interest in Iranian nuclear intentions. How Iran reacts to negotiations with the IAEA and and UN Security Council may have regional implications for nuclear markets in the Middle East and elsewhere.

One Step Forward--Two Steps Backward?
15 Sep 2009
An Early Site Permit award for Southern Co.'s Vogtle nuclear power plants 3 and 4 triggers a negative rating outlook from US rating agencies. Challenges to the state of Georgia's construction while in progress legislation also clouds the financing picture for the $12-14bn project.