Articles tagged with "nuclear-energy"
Finland approves ‘world’s simplest’ nuclear reactor concept for safety
Finland’s Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) has approved the concept assessment of Steady Energy’s LDR-50 small modular reactor (SMR), deeming it fit to generate nuclear energy and meet Finland’s nuclear safety requirements. Although not legally required, Steady Energy requested this assessment to align with anticipated future regulations. The approval supports the company’s development timeline and plans to build a full-scale pilot plant inside a former coal-fired power station in Helsinki, which will demonstrate key safety features without using nuclear fuel. An international regulatory review will follow, leveraging STUK’s findings, as Steady Energy expands its agreements for 15 reactors in Finland and plans growth into Sweden and the Baltics. The LDR-50 reactor is distinct from typical SMRs as it produces only heat, not electricity, generating up to 50 MW of thermal power at 150°C. This heat can be used for district heating, industrial steam, and desalination, with a simplified pressurized light water reactor
energynuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorSMRdistrict-heatingclean-energysustainable-energyNew evidence suggests Israel’s nuclear power may be underestimated
New evidence indicates that Israel’s nuclear arsenal may be significantly larger than previously believed, potentially comprising 200 to 300 warheads—about three times the widely accepted estimate of around 90. This reassessment is based on new analyses of Israel’s plutonium stockpile, production capacity, and satellite imagery of the Dimona nuclear facility. Experts estimate that Israel has produced between 750 and 1,110 kilograms of separated plutonium since the late 1960s, sufficient for 187 to 277 nuclear weapons depending on design. Israel maintains a policy of “nuclear ambiguity,” neither confirming nor denying its nuclear capabilities, and has historically conducted preemptive strikes to prevent regional adversaries from acquiring nuclear weapons. Amid escalating tensions with Iran, including Israel’s recent Operation Rising Lion targeting Iranian nuclear sites and Iran’s retaliatory missile and drone attacks, Israel’s nuclear capabilities have become a critical factor in regional security. Israel is believed to possess a full nuclear triad—land-based ballistic missiles (
energynuclear-powernuclear-weaponsnuclear-arsenalnuclear-proliferationnuclear-energynuclear-strategyNvidia joins Gates-backed nuclear startup to power AI’s energy needs
Nvidia has invested in TerraPower, a nuclear energy company founded by Bill Gates, through its venture arm NVentures as part of a $650 million funding round. This strategic move aims to address the rapidly growing energy demands of AI-driven data centers, whose electricity consumption is expected to more than double by 2030. TerraPower develops advanced small modular reactors (SMRs), including its flagship Natrium project in Wyoming, which features a 345-megawatt sodium-cooled fast reactor paired with a gigawatt-scale molten salt energy storage system. This design allows for flexible, carbon-free power generation that can complement intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar. TerraPower is progressing toward commercial operation of the Natrium plant by 2030, with non-nuclear construction already underway. The company has also signed a memorandum of understanding with Sabey Data Centers to explore supplying nuclear energy directly to the data center industry, marking a significant early collaboration between advanced nuclear developers and major tech infrastructure operators.
energynuclear-energyAI-energy-needsTerraPowersmall-modular-reactorsdata-centerscarbon-free-energySweden team tests 100 rare nuclei to unlock nuclear fission secrets
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden conducted an experimental study using a large superconducting magnet to investigate nuclear fission in 100 exotic nuclei, including elements like platinum, mercury, and lead. Their goal was to better understand the fission process, which is fundamental both for improving cleaner nuclear energy generation and for insights into element formation in the universe. Nuclear fission typically produces asymmetric fragments—unequal in size and mass—due to the nuclear shell structure, where certain numbers of protons and neutrons confer greater stability. However, prior research focused mainly on a limited set of long-lived isotopes, leaving the fission behavior of many exotic, short-lived nuclei poorly understood. The team specifically studied nuclei with more protons than neutrons to identify which shell effects cause the nucleus to split asymmetrically into a lighter and a heavier fragment. Their surprising finding was that the enhanced stability of the smaller fission fragment is linked to a specific proton number—36—indicating a previously un
energynuclear-fissionnuclear-energyclean-energyradioactive-wastesmall-modular-reactorsmicroreactorsUS fast-tracks nuclear reactor testing to catch up with China’s boom
The United States Department of Energy (DOE) has launched a pilot program to accelerate the testing and commercial licensing of advanced nuclear reactors, aiming to catch up with China’s rapid nuclear energy expansion. This initiative, authorized under President Donald Trump’s executive order on reforming nuclear reactor testing, allows private companies to construct and operate test reactors outside national laboratories. The program seeks to streamline development by requiring applicants to demonstrate technological readiness, financial viability, and a plan to achieve reactor criticality by July 4, 2026. Selected companies will bear all costs related to design, construction, operation, and decommissioning, with applications due by July 21, 2025. This move is part of a broader effort to boost American innovation in nuclear technology, enhance economic growth, and strengthen national security. It builds on existing DOE and Department of Defense projects involving microreactors and advanced reactor demonstrations. The urgency stems from China’s aggressive nuclear expansion, which includes 102 reactors operating, under construction, or approved
energynuclear-energyadvanced-reactorsDOEnuclear-reactor-testingenergy-policyclean-energyPro-Israel hacktivist group claims responsibility for alleged Iranian bank hack
The pro-Israel hacktivist group Predatory Sparrow (also known as Gonjeshke Darande) claimed responsibility for a cyberattack that allegedly targeted and disrupted Iran’s Bank Sepah. The group stated on social media platform X that they destroyed data belonging to Bank Sepah, which they accuse of helping the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) circumvent international sanctions and finance Iran’s ballistic missile, nuclear, and proxy activities. Reports from Iran International indicated widespread banking disruptions, including branch closures and customers being unable to access accounts, with images circulating of ATMs displaying error messages. However, TechCrunch was unable to independently verify the attack, and Bank Sepah and its affiliates did not respond to requests for comment. This alleged cyberattack occurs amid escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran, following Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. Predatory Sparrow is believed to be a pro-Israel or anti-Iran hacktivist group with a history of targeting Iranian infrastructure, including steel plants
energycybersecuritycyberattackhacktivistIrannuclear-energyindustrial-disruptionPro-Israel hacktivist group claims reponsibility for alleged Iranian bank hack
The pro-Israel hacktivist group Predatory Sparrow, also known by its Persian name Gonjeshke Darande, claimed responsibility for a cyberattack that allegedly targeted and disrupted Iran’s Bank Sepah. The group stated that their attack destroyed data belonging to Bank Sepah, which they accused of helping the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) circumvent international sanctions and finance Iran’s terrorist proxies, ballistic missile program, and military nuclear efforts. Following the claim, reports emerged of widespread banking disruptions in Iran, including closed Bank Sepah branches and customers being unable to access their accounts, with ATMs reportedly displaying error messages. However, independent verification of the cyberattack remains unavailable, and attempts to contact Bank Sepah and Predatory Sparrow for confirmation were unsuccessful. This alleged cyberattack occurs amid escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran, with both countries reportedly conducting strikes against each other’s military and nuclear infrastructure. While the exact identity of Predatory Sparrow remains unclear, cybersecurity experts consider the group credible based
energycybersecuritycyberattacknuclear-energyindustrial-disruptionhacktivismIranSenate GOP bill spares nuclear and geothermal energy while hammering wind and solar
Senate Republicans have introduced a budget reconciliation bill that significantly scales back renewable energy incentives established under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), particularly targeting solar, wind, and hydrogen energy. The bill proposes ending residential solar tax credits within 180 days of enactment and disqualifying solar leasing companies from receiving credits, which would severely impact the residential solar market. Commercial wind and solar projects would face a shortened timeline for tax credits, with full credits only available for projects starting within six months of the bill’s signing and phased reductions thereafter, disappearing entirely after 2027. Hydrogen tax credits would also end this year, creating additional challenges for hydrogen startups. In contrast, the bill largely spares geothermal, nuclear, hydropower, and long-duration energy storage technologies, with only slight extensions to their tax credit phase-outs. Carbon capture incentives would be modified to eliminate distinctions based on the use of captured carbon, making all projects eligible for the same credit level. Notably, the inclusion of long-duration energy storage could
energyrenewable-energysolar-powerwind-energynuclear-energygeothermal-energyenergy-policyChina makes Yttrium-90 radioisotope in commercial nuclear reactor
China has successfully produced Yttrium-90 (Y-90) radioisotope using a commercial heavy-water nuclear reactor at the Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant in Zhejiang province. This marks the first time China has domestically manufactured Y-90 glass microspheres at scale, a significant advancement in the country’s isotope production capabilities. The China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) confirmed that the first batch of Y-90 microspheres met all quality standards, enabling large-scale, continuous production. Previously, China relied entirely on imports for this critical isotope used in cancer therapy, presenting challenges for patients. Yttrium-90 microspheres are a key component in transarterial radioembolization (TARE), a minimally invasive treatment for mid-to-late stage liver cancer. The microspheres deliver targeted beta radiation directly to liver tumors via the hepatic artery, destroying cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue due to their limited radiation penetration. The Qinshan team, collaborating with multiple research groups, leveraged the
energynuclear-energyradioisotopesyttrium-90cancer-treatmentnuclear-medicineisotope-productionIran's nuclear, military sites hit by 200 Israeli jets, IDF claims
Israel launched a large-scale airstrike against Iran on Thursday night and Friday morning, deploying over 200 fighter jets to target more than 100 nuclear and military sites, including the Natanz nuclear facility. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed the strikes hit the "heart" of Iran’s nuclear program, aiming to disrupt Tehran’s production of enriched uranium, which Israel says is bringing Iran closer to developing nuclear weapons. Iranian state media reported significant casualties, including the deaths of Hossein Salami, chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, and six nuclear scientists, though these claims have not been independently verified. Iran denied any radiation increase at Natanz and stated that the Bushehr nuclear power plant was not targeted. The strikes occurred amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran, with the sixth round scheduled in Muscat, Oman. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently accused Iran of breaching its non-proliferation obligations by failing to disclose details about undeclared nuclear material
energynuclear-energymilitary-technologydronesdefense-systemsuranium-enrichmentMiddle-East-conflictStandard Nuclear emerges from the ashes of a failed startup
Standard Nuclear has launched with $42 million in funding to develop advanced nuclear fuel, building upon assets acquired from the bankruptcy of Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC) for $28 million. The new company’s CEO, Kurt Terrani, was formerly USNC’s vice president. The funding round was led by Decisive Point, with participation from Andreessen Horowitz and others. Standard Nuclear has secured $100 million in non-binding fuel sales projected for 2027 and is collaborating with customers such as Nano Nuclear Energy and Radiant Industries. The company acknowledges that acquiring USNC’s assets accelerated its timeline. USNC had focused on commercializing TRISO fuel—uranium pellets coated with carbon- and ceramic-based layers—which is considered safer and more meltdown-resistant than traditional nuclear fuel, though it has not been widely used since its development in the 1950s. USNC’s history was marked by a broad and ambitious business model, including two reactor designs, nuclear propulsion, and spacecraft heating systems, but it was primarily funded by a single investor, Richard Hollis Helms, who invested over $100 million plus loans. Helms, a former CIA Arabist, founded USNC after retiring from intelligence work. Despite efforts to raise more capital in 2022, USNC struggled financially and declared bankruptcy in October 2024 amid mounting debts and payroll issues. Standard Nuclear, led by Decisive Point founder Thomas Hendrix, purchased USNC’s fuel-related assets in a bankruptcy auction completed in February 2025, establishing its operational base and continuing the development of TRISO fuel technology.
energynuclear-energyadvanced-nuclear-fuelTRISO-fuelstartup-fundingnuclear-materialsnuclear-reactorsChernobyl: Once a nuclear disaster, could turn into a tourism hub
Ukraine is pursuing a post-war restoration plan to transform the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone and the nearby city of Slavutych into sustainable international tourism and education hubs. This initiative aims to preserve the legacy of the 1986 nuclear disaster while fostering economic renewal in a region affected by both the nuclear catastrophe and recent conflict. Authorities from the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and Slavutych have signed a memorandum to promote tourism that emphasizes nuclear safety, environmental recovery, and human resilience. The plan is part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to convert decades of hardship into opportunities for learning, progress, and global collaboration. Slavutych, built to house workers evacuated from Pripyat after the disaster, remains closely tied to Chernobyl’s history. The Exclusion Zone, once deemed uninhabitable due to radiation, had become a growing tourist destination before the 2022 Russian invasion, which temporarily halted visits and caused damage to critical infrastructure like the New Safe Confinement structure. Despite these challenges, Ukraine is committed to reopening the area with a focus on sustainable tourism that includes new visitor centers, improved transport, and guided tours highlighting both the environmental impact and the surprising resurgence of wildlife in the zone. Investments in Slavutych’s infrastructure, including hotel expansion, aim to support international visitors and underscore Ukraine’s resilience and recovery.
energynuclear-energyChernobylnuclear-disastersustainable-tourismenvironmental-recoveryradiation-safetyRenewables Surge in South Korea as New Government Charts Electrified Future - CleanTechnica
South Korea’s new government has initiated a significant policy shift toward an electrified, decarbonized energy future, emphasizing a pragmatic and economically strategic expansion of renewable energy. The plan maintains nuclear power at current levels to provide stable baseload electricity while accelerating the phase-out of coal. This approach addresses South Korea’s historical vulnerability due to its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels—over 90% of its energy needs—which exposed the country to geopolitical risks and price volatility. The government’s vision centers on leveraging domestic renewable resources, particularly offshore wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) power, to reduce dependence on imports and environmental impacts. The envisioned energy system aims to deliver approximately 924 terawatt-hours (TWh) annually—matching current energy service levels but with far greater efficiency and lower emissions. Offshore wind is poised to be the cornerstone of this transformation, capitalizing on South Korea’s favorable maritime geography, especially in the Yellow Sea and near Jeju Island, where strong, stable winds can generate hundreds of TWh per year. This shift also aligns with industrial policy by enabling major shipbuilding companies like Hyundai Heavy Industries and Doosan to transition into offshore wind turbine manufacturing, promising significant economic benefits. Solar PV complements offshore wind by focusing on rooftop installations and floating solar farms, addressing land constraints while expanding renewable capacity. Overall, South Korea’s energy transition reflects a balanced, economically grounded strategy that integrates renewables and nuclear power to enhance energy security, reduce emissions, and foster industrial innovation. While nuclear remains a key baseload source, the emphasis on offshore wind and solar PV marks a decisive move away from fossil fuels, aiming for a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy system.
energyrenewable-energySouth-Koreaelectrificationoffshore-windsolar-photovoltaicnuclear-energyVanguard-Class: Britain’s Silent Nuclear Guardians
The Vanguard-class nuclear submarines are central to the United Kingdom’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent, operating covertly beneath the ocean’s surface. Each submarine is equipped with up to 16 Trident II D5 ballistic missiles, which have long-range precision strike capabilities. At any given time, at least one Vanguard-class submarine is on active patrol, ensuring an uninterrupted and stealthy nuclear deterrent presence worldwide. Commissioned in the 1990s, the Vanguard-class remains a vital component of the UK’s national defense strategy. Although these submarines are scheduled to be replaced by the next-generation Dreadnought-class within the next decade, they continue to serve as the backbone of Britain’s nuclear deterrent, maintaining a continuous and covert operational posture across global waters.
energynuclear-energysubmarine-technologydefense-technologymilitary-materialsnuclear-deterrentballistic-missilesLet’s Talk About Small Modular Reactors - CleanTechnica
nuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorsclean-technologyrenewable-energyenergy-productionclimate-changeelectricity-generationWorld’s first mass-produced nuclear reactor to enter testing in US
nuclear-energymicroreactorsenergy-innovationmodular-reactorsportable-energy-solutionsadvanced-nuclear-technologyrenewable-energyGoogle backs 1800 MW nuclear power for data centers in US push
nuclear-energydata-centersenergy-demandadvanced-reactorsGoogleElementlsite-developmentUkraine plans a small nuclear reactor in Chernobyl exclusion zone
nuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorsChernobylenergy-needsUkrainepower-generationradiation-managementLaser-powered fusion experiment more than doubles its power output
energyfusionnuclear-energypower-outputlaser-technologyinertial-confinementclimate-technologyChuyên gia hạt nhân Dubna làm việc với Viện Năng lượng Nguyên tử Việt Nam
energynuclear-energyVietnamcollaborationatomic-energysustainable-developmentenergy-policy'Việt Nam tiến tới làm chủ công nghệ năng lượng hạt nhân'
energynuclear-energygreen-energyenergy-technologyenergy-policyVietnam-energyatomic-energyTham khảo một số Luật Năng lượng Nguyên tử trên thế giới
energynuclear-energyenergy-policyenergy-regulationclean-energyenergy-securityatomic-energyNăng lượng Nhật Bản kỳ 86 Nhân lực điện hạt nhân của các nước đi đầu và vấn đề của Việt Nam
energynuclear-energyrenewable-energycarbon-reductionbiodieselJapan-energy-policyenergy-transitionLò phản ứng Trung Quốc lập kỷ lục hoạt động lâu nhất
energynuclear-energyCANDU-reactorcarbon-emissions-reductionpower-generationrenewable-energyenergy-efficiencyTrao đổi của EVN về điều chỉnh giá điện tháng 5 2025 và các tác động đến từng nhóm khách hàng
energyelectricity-pricingnuclear-energyEVNenergy-policyconsumer-impactenergy-regulationBàn về Dự thảo Luật Năng lượng Nguyên tử Việt Nam sửa đổi
energynuclear-energyenergy-policyVietnamsafety-regulationsenergy-lawatomic-energyTầm nhìn chính sách năng lượng Việt Nam Tham khảo gợi ý của chuyên gia quốc tế
energyrenewable-energyenergy-policysustainable-developmentVietnam-energynuclear-energyclimate-changeNhững điểm mới quan trọng tại Dự thảo Luật Năng lượng nguyên tử sửa đổi
energynuclear-energyenergy-policysafety-regulationssustainable-energyenergy-strategyatomic-energyKế hoạch giảm lệ thuộc nước ngoài về nhiên liệu hạt nhân của Hoa Kỳ
energynuclear-energyuranium-enrichmentrenewable-energyenergy-supply-chainsustainable-developmentenergy-policyStates and Startups Are Suing the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
nuclear-energyregulatory-challengesstartupslawsuitsUS-Nuclear-Regulatory-Commissionsmall-reactorstechnology-innovation