nuclear energy

Northwest Nuclear Plant Scores Higher Safety Rating

Anna King — Thu, 16 May 2013 15:53:20 +0000

Federal regulators say the Northwest’s only commercial nuclear power plant is now back on course after an 11-year safety miscalculation. The new designation means the Columbia Generating Station in southeast Washington gets a more relaxed inspection and oversight status.

Between 2000 and 2011, workers at the nuclear plant used faulty estimates for how much radiation could escape during a crisis.

DOE: Hanford Tanks Leaking Less Than 3 Gallons Per Day

Anna King — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 16:53:50 +0000

RICHLAND, Wash. – A new detail has emerged on the leaking tanks at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation. The federal Energy Department acknowledged last week that six single-shelled tanks are holding less radioactive waste than they used to. Monday the agency said those tanks are losing less than three gallons a day.

Worst case: Three gallons per day adds up to 1,095 gallons of radioactive waste per year.

Bipartisan Group Plans Overhaul For Radioactive Waste Disposal

Anna King — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:00:11 +0000

RICHLAND, Wash. - A bipartisan group of senior senators is drafting a bill to overhaul the U.S. nuclear-waste program. The group, which includes Oregon’s Democratic Senator Ron Wyden, is aiming to find a permanent home for the nation’s radioactive waste.

Wyden is the new chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. The radioactive waste working group also includes Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senator Dianne Feinstein of California and Lamar Alexander of Tennessee.