Significant nuclear-related news items in perspective US energy plan backs nuclear generation. President Bush's national energy plan puts forward a range of initiatives to secure the US energy future over the next two decades. It includes provisions to boost electricity generation from nuclear power as well as encouragement for exploiting fossil fuel reserves, tax breaks for pollution-reducing technology and streamlining approval for new powerlines. Federal agencies will need to add an energy impact statement to their routine environmental one, and they will be required to expedite permits and approvals for energy- related projects. Russia starts work on new fast reactor.
Japan approves new nuclear plant.
Following consent from local residents, a government panel has approved plans for a new nuclear power station at Kaminoseki in southern Japan, with two 1373 MWe advanced boiling water reactors. Construction is due to start in 2007 with commissioning in 2012 and 2015. US Business Council quantifies Californian costs. Washington and Oregon states have low hydro reserves and will be unable to supply much to California this summer. The Business Council figures were supported by estimates from the North American Electric Reliability Council, representing industry, federal and state grid managers.