Nuclear energy no longer a taboo, WNE hears

01 December 2023

Much progress has been made over recent years in the representation of nuclear in national, regional and international debates on energy and the climate, speakers agreed at the opening session of the World Nuclear Exhibition (WNE) in Paris this week.

Grossi speaking during the opening session at WNE (Image: WNN)

"In my speech [to WNE] two years ago, I dared to say the following: 'Nuclear power might be ready to make a comeback'," noted Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency. "Today I can assure you nuclear is making a strong comeback, a very strong comeback."

He said this comeback was happening due to several factors. Firstly, there are some countries with established nuclear industries that have changed their mind on reducing or phasing out their use of nuclear energy. Meanwhile, there is a "growing appetite for nuclear power" around the world, with some countries taking the decision to construct nuclear power plants. "China, India, France, the USA, Canada, Poland. Many, many countries are now looking at nuclear power much more closely and with the greater interest," Birol said.

Energy security, environmental concerns - especially climate change - and the competitiveness of nuclear have been the three main driving forces for changes in attitudes among governments and investors, he added.

Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, also noted there have been "a number of very, very encouraging facts that have been taking place" since the previous WNE.

"Fatih was rightly saying countries one after the other, perhaps with one exception, have been reviewing, revising, or annotating previous decisions in what I would call more than a nuclear renaissance, more a return to common sense."

Grossi said there had been some positive developments for nuclear in several countries, including the restart of several Japanese reactors, a reversal of South Korea's nuclear phase-out policy, the start of construction of a nuclear power plant in Egypt and the grid connection of new reactors in the UAE and the USA.

"All of this might indicate that we are in an extremely positive situation, but we are not," he said. "The reality is that all of these very positive developments are adding much less nuclear than what we actually need.

"For these figures to improve, for this trend to be consolidated, of course there are a number of things that need to happen and I think it is important that we face this and that we are clear about this situation. One important thing, of course, has been and will be a number of political decisions that need to be taken. Without the right political decision, of course, we may have a number of very convincing argument but nothing is going to change."

Birol said the nuclear industry has three priorities. Firstly, it should increase the capacity of nuclear power plants. "There's huge room for that and a huge appetite for that," he said. Secondly, the lifetime of existing reactors should be extended. "In my view, it is the cheapest source of clean electricity generation and I see that there is a growing appetite across the world." Thirdly, he said, there needs to be innovation, such as small modular reactors (SMRs).

On financing, Grossi said: "We are still living in an environment that is charged with, in some cases, statutory provisions for international financing institutions that prevent, black on white, prevent nuclear projects to be financed. This has definitely to change."

Birol echoed this by saying that because nuclear power was capital intensive the sector is unlikely to grow without government support. "There should be genuine government support, as governments support other clean energy options." He said investment should also be facilitated by the multilateral development banks (MDB). "I do not know why the MDBs up to now did not show enough interest in nuclear investment, especially life time extensions and small modular reactors."

The nuclear sector has come a long way when it comes to its representation at the UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP) meetings. Speaking of COP28, starting in Dubai, Grossi said: "I can tell you that for the first time - imagine, it's been 27 cops - but never ever before, countries that use nuclear energy were ready to say it at one point. It was a taboo for the COPs. Nuclear was not something that was considered as part of a solution. And this time all the countries that are using nuclear energy are going to proudly stand together and say that for them, at the COP, that nuclear is part of that solution."

Thierry Breton, European Commissioner for Internal Market at the European Commission, also speaking in the opening session, added: "Coming here, it was so strange to see how vibrant the whole industry is. It's amazing. I would tell you that nuclear is no more a taboo, even in the European Commission."

Researched and written by World Nuclear News

US leads call at COP28 to triple nuclear energy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050

Issued on: 02/12/2023 -

UAE Minister of Energy, Suhail al-Mazrouei, speaks at an event for nuclear energy at the COP28 UN Climate Summit, on Saturday, December 2, 2023, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. © Peter Dejon, AP

03:53
Video by: Valérie DEKIMPE  

More than 20 nations including the United States called for a tripling of nuclear energy to drive down emissions on Saturday as world leaders assembled for the third day of the UN climate talks in Dubai.

COP28: Calls for more nuclear and less 'destructive' methane

Dubai (AFP) – The United States led calls at UN climate talks Saturday for efforts to curb methane emissions but also pushed a deeply controversial drive to boost nuclear energy to curb global warming.


Issued on: 02/12/2023

Nuclear push: US climate envoy John Kerry 

© Ludovic MARIN / AFP

With smoggy skies in Dubai highlighting the challenges facing the world, other pledges are expected at the COP28 conference, including stepping up the deployment of renewable energy.

The use of nuclear power as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels is highly controversial as environmental groups are concerned about safety and the disposal of nuclear waste.

But more than 20 nations ranging from the US to Ghana, Japan and several European countries said in a declaration that it plays a "key role" in the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by mid-century.

They called for the tripling of nuclear energy capacity by 2050 from 2020 levels.

"We are not making the argument to anybody that this is absolutely going to be a sweeping alternative to every other energy source," US climate envoy John Kerry said at COP28.

"But we know because (of) the science and the reality of facts... that you can't get to net zero 2050 without some nuclear," he said.

The other signatories include Britain, France, South Korea, Ukraine and the United Arab Emirates. But nuclear powers Russia and China did not sign up.

Environmental group 350.org said the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan highlighted the dangers of atomic power.

South Korean activists protest at Japan's plan to release wastewater from the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant 

© Jung Yeon-je / AFP

"While we appreciate that the Biden administration is looking to invest in alternatives to fossil fuels, we don't have time to waste on dangerous distractions like nuclear energy," said its North American director Jeff Ordower.

Experts point to the fact that nuclear plants can take decades to go into service.

"Nuclear energy takes much longer than renewable energy to be operational," 350.org added.

Fossil fuel expansion 'frightening'

The declaration came as more than 50 world leaders took the stage at COP28 for the second day in a row, though US President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are skipping the talks.

"Today, we are demonstrating through action how the world can and must meet this crisis," Harris said.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said energy transition "has to be now", adding: "We all have to demonstrate the same determination to phase out fossil fuels, beginning with coal."

Meanwhile Colombia became one of the largest fossil fuel producers to join a group of climate-vulnerable island nations calling to end new development of planet-heating coal, oil and gas.

Colombia said its decision to join the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative was an important step in its climate plans.

Colombian Environment Minister Susana Muhamad said it was "frightening" that governments continued to plan to expand their fossil fuel exploitation.

Methane, often from farm animals, is the second biggest contributor to climate change © Fabrice COFFRINI / AFP

While nations are locked in contentious negotiations on a phase out or phase down of fossil fuels, there is broad backing for the tripling of renewable energy by 2030, an issue that will feature highly on Saturday.

The US and China, the world's two biggest emitters of greenhouse gases, will later hold a summit with the UAE on methane emissions, the second driver of global warming after fossil fuels.

"The science must be simple: to turn down the heat, you simply have to turn down the methane," said Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley.

Washington has announced it will tighten curbs on methane emissions from the oil and gas industry.

Methane: a potent greenhouse gas 

© Jonathan WALTER, Laurence SAUBADU / AFP

The new standards would phase in eliminating routine flaring of natural gas produced by oil wells and require comprehensive monitoring of methane leaks from wells and compression stations.

Methane emissions also come from the agriculture sector, with cows and sheep releasing the gas during digestion and in their manure.

Methane "is the most destructive gas", Kerry said.

© 2023 AFP

Nuclear power has role to play, atomic energy head tells AFP at COP28

Dubai (AFP) – It would be a mistake to reject nuclear power because of problems at a handful of projects, Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency said in an interview with AFP.

Issued on: 02/12/2023 

Rafael Grossi, pictured in Vienna in November 2023, believes international lending organisations need to rethink their nuclear policies 

© Joe Klamar / AFP

Grossi was speaking at the COP28 conference in Dubai, where on Saturday a group of large countries are expected to call for nuclear power capacity to be tripled by 2050 as part of the fight against global warming.

Supporters of atomic power say it is an essential source of reliable emissions-free energy.

But detractors point to the risks and high costs of massive nuclear projects at a time when the price of renewable energies continues to fall.

"There is work to do," Grossi admitted, citing the financing needs of countries that wish to extend their nuclear fleets, such as Brazil, Argentina, and South Africa.

Grossi said countries tempted to take the nuclear leap, including Morocco, Senegal, Kenya and the Philippines, face similar challenges.

"There are statutes in some international lending organisations that exclude financing for nuclear," the Argentinian director general said.

"I think that is completely obsolete. It does not correspond to any scientific or technological criteria."

The World Bank, for instance, has not financed a nuclear project since 1959.

"I think, and I hope there will be an evolution" in their thinking, Grossi said.
Proliferation risk 'should not exist'

Some environmentalists argue that with certain nuclear projects already 10 years behind schedule, they are simply too costly and will not be ready in time to respond to climate challenges.

But rejecting all nuclear projects because of these setbacks would be "an error", Grossi insisted.

"Look, here in the Emirates... there was no nuclear here a decade ago and now there are four reactors," meeting about a quarter of the country's electricity demands.

The nuclear industry is resting much of its hopes on small modular reactors (SMR), which are less powerful but easier to construct.

There are concerns that less developed countries might not have the means to keep these installations safe and avoid proliferation.

"It is a legitimate question, but that is why we were created," Grossi responded, pointing to the flag of his agency, which carries atomic symbols on a United Nations blue background.

"Any country wanting to develop a nuclear programme must follow a full procedure and draw up an agreement with the Agency," he said.

"In principle, that means the risk of proliferation should not exist."

For example, the Emirates had to complete 19 steps while developing its civil nuclear programme, including setting up an independent supervisory body.

Grossi said he does not think the dangers faced by Ukraine's reactors since the start of Russia's invasion are an argument against nuclear power, either.

"The problem is war, not nuclear," he said without hesitation.

However, he could not hide his concern as winter approaches.

"The ground will harden, the tanks can move, the rivers will freeze, we see a lot of military equipment on both sides. Yes, that obviously worries us."

© 2023 AFP

Ministerial declaration puts nuclear at heart of climate action

02 December 2023

Twenty two countries have signed up to the goal of tripling global nuclear energy capacity by 2050, at the UN's COP28 climate change conference.

Sama Bilbao y León said the significance of the declaration could not be overstated (Image: WNA)

The heads of state, or senior officials, from Bulgaria, Canada, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Ghana,  Hungary, Japan, South Korea, Moldova, Mongolia, Morocco, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, the UK and the USA signed the declaration at the conference taking place in Dubai.

Speaking during the launch ceremony at the event, the US Presidential climate envoy John Kerry was reported by Reuters to have said that the signatories believed that the world could not get to Net Zero without building more nuclear energy capacity: "We are not making the argument that this is absolutely going to be the sweeping alternative to every other energy source. But ... you can't get to net-zero 2050 without some nuclear."

The declaration says the countries recognise the need for a trebling of nuclear energy capacity to achieve "global net-zero greenhouse gas/carbon neutrality by or around mid-century and in keeping a 1.5 degrees celsius limit on temperature rise within reach". It also recognises that "new nuclear technologies could occupy a small land footprint and can be sited where needed, partner well with renewable energy sources and have additional flexibilities that support decarbonisation beyond the power sector, including hard-to-abate industrial sectors".

And there is recognition of the role of the International Atomic Energy Agency to support its member states to include nuclear in their national energy planning, as well as agreement on the importance of financing for new nuclear and it recognises "the need for high-level political engagement to spur further action on nuclear power".

Those signing the declaration commit to:

• Work together to advance a global aspirational goal of tripling nuclear energy capacity from 2020 by 2050, recognising the different domestic circumstances of each participant
• Take domestic actions to ensure nuclear power plants are operated responsibly and in line with the highest standards of safety, sustainability, security, and non-proliferation, and that fuel waste is responsibly managed for the long term
• Mobilise investments in nuclear power, including through innovative financing mechanisms and invite the World Bank and other international financial institutions' shareholders to encourage the inclusion of nuclear energy in their organisations' energy lending policies
• To supporting the development and construction of nuclear reactors, such as small modular and other advanced reactors for power generation as well as wider industrial applications for decarbonisation, such as for hydrogen or synthetic fuels production
• To supporting responsible nations looking to explore new civil nuclear deployment under the highest standards of safety, sustainability, security, and non-proliferation

They also recognise the importance of promoting resilient supply chains and, where feasible, of extending the lifetimes of existing nuclear power plants. The signatories also "resolve to review progress towards these commitments on an annual basis on the margins of the COP" and "call on other countries to join this declaration".

The declaration comes with nuclear energy becoming increasingly recognised by countries as being a key part of efforts to cut carbon emissions and tackle climate change. The Net Zero Nuclear initiative, which was co-founded by Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation and World Nuclear Association, with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency's Atoms4NetZero initiative, calls for "unprecedented collaboration between government and industry leaders to at least triple global nuclear capacity to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050".

World Nuclear Association Director General Sama Bilbao y León said: "The significance of the Ministerial Declaration cannot be overstated. The countries supporting this declaration are making a resolute commitment, placing nuclear energy at the heart of their strategies for climate change mitigation. Their vision is one that strives for a sustainable, cost-effective, secure, and equitable energy mix all over the world.

"On behalf of the global nuclear industry, I express my deepest appreciation for your collective effort in crafting this bold and pragmatic declaration. Your commitment to nuclear energy is not just a statement; we take it as a challenge extended to the entire nuclear industry worldwide.

"As we move forward, we will unite and

Nuclear to 'shine' at COP28, says Bilbao y León

29 November 2023

The nuclear energy industry will be highly visible at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), taking place in Dubai over the coming weeks, World Nuclear Association Director General Sama Bilbao y León told delegates at the World Nuclear Exhibition 2023 in Paris.

(Image: WNN)

Nuclear energy, she said, has not been given much prominence at previous COP conferences. However, "for the first time, nuclear energy, which was once the victim of political posturing, is being incorporated whole-heartedly into the climate change conversations and the mitigation plans of many, many, many countries, and certainly we are seen as a positive force at the COP meetings".

This change in stance on nuclear has resulted from "the efforts of several generations of nuclear professionals that have participated in many COPs from the very beginning", Bilbao y León said. In addition, teams of the global nuclear trade associations have also contributed.

"More recently, since Paris, COP21, we need to thank the advocates at the Nuclear for Climate Initiative," she added. "Because all these friends and colleagues of yours have been carrying the nuclear torch at climate change conferences for more than 20 years. They have been doing that at times in the face of quite aggressive opposition."

However, she noted that things have changed "dramatically" over the past couple of years. At COP27, held in Sharm El-Sheikh in 2022, there was the first Atoms for Climate Pavilion, a collaboration between the International Atomic Energy Agency and global nuclear trade associations. Bilbao y León said this was "truly a turning point in how nuclear is presented at COP meetings".

"Not only did we challenge the preconceptions that many people have about nuclear energy, but we also laid the groundwork to actually make sure that nuclear energy is perceived in a manner that is much more positive and inclusive in the context of climate change," she said. "I think what we are seeing in the COP microcosmos is actually a reflection of what we are seeing in the global situation all over the world. We are seeing a new interest in nuclear energy."

She said that an all-inclusive approach is needed so that all low-carbon energy sources, including nuclear, can play a role in creating a sustainable, net-zero global energy future. "To become a reality, the global capacity of nuclear energy needs to multiply by three," Bilbao y León noted.

"Today we have 60 gigawatts of new nuclear under construction all over the world and knowing that it takes 6-7 years for a large nuclear power plant to be built on average, all these reactors will be up and running by 2030," she said. "We also have more that are planned, and we are starting to see them moving forward. And of course, we have many exciting new projects with small modular reactors and advanced technologies. So we are going to see many of these demonstration projects become a reality this decade."

However, in order to achieve a trebling in nuclear capacity, the industry needs to "turn this political good will that we are starting to see into actionable and pragmatic policies". Licensing and regulatory processes need to streamlined and affordable financing must be secured. In addition, the supply chain and human resources must be expanded.

"We are going to need to bring together governments because at the end of the day our policymakers are the ones that are going to set these bold and pragmatic policies and energy markets," Bilbao y León said. "But then we in the nuclear industry need to work together with them because ultimately it is you, all of you, that are going to build and operate this nuclear future."

Looking ahead to COP28, which starts in Dubai on 30 November, she said the summit "will be a very pragmatic and realistic COP and frankly this is the right time for our industry to really shine and show that not only are we talking about the delivery, but we are already putting in place what is needed to provide these goals."

World Nuclear Association, together with the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, have initiated the Net Zero Nuclear platform "to increase the visibility of nuclear energy by bringing together governments, the industry and civil society".

Researched and written by World Nuclear News work together in an ambitious spirit to translate today's goals into tangible achievements. We will continue to maximise our efforts to extend the operations of the existing nuclear fleet and work together to accelerate the deployment of new nuclear projects. We will continue to set the highest standards of quality, safety and security and will continue to work together to attract and cultivate the brightest minds among young scientists, engineers and other professionals to come and join us."

The signing of the ministerial declaration comes the day after the IAEA issued what it called a landmark statement saying the world needs nuclear energy to fight climate change and build "a low carbon bridge" to the future.

"The IAEA and its member states that are nuclear energy producers and those working with the IAEA to promote the benefits of peaceful uses of nuclear energy acknowledge that all available low emission technologies should be recognised and actively supported,” the statement read by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said.

“Net zero needs nuclear power. Nuclear power emits no greenhouse gases when it is produced and contributes to energy security and the stability of the power grid, while facilitating the broader uptake of solar and wind power," it added.

COP28 - which stands for the 28th Conference of the Parties to the original 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change - is being held in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates from 30 November until 12 December. Representatives of nearly 200 governments are attending and the aim is to continue efforts to limit the global rise in temperatures to 1.5 degrees celsius above pre-industrial levels.

Researched and written by World Nuclear News

 

Philippine President Skips Climate Talks to Focus on Hijacked Seafarers

Houthi fighters advance along the top deck of the Galaxy Leader (Houthi Military Media)

PUBLISHED NOV 30, 2023 8:07 PM BY THE MARITIME EXECUTIVE

 

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has suspended his trip to the UAE for the COP28 climate conference in order to give his full attention to negotiating the release of Filipino crewmembers of the car carrier Galaxy Leader, which was hijacked by Yemen's Houthi militia on Nov. 19.  

"In light of important developments in the hostage situation involving 17 Filipino seafarers in the Red Sea, I have made the decision not to attend COP28 in Dubai tomorrow," said Marcos in a statement. "Today, I will be convening a meeting to facilitate the dispatch of a high-level delegation to Tehran, Iran, with the aim of providing necessary assistance to our seafarers."

The statement came just a few hours before Marcos was due to board a plane and depart for Dubai. He did not attend a send-off ceremony at Manila's Villamor Air Base. 

In skipping a trip to COP28, Marcos is passing up an opportunity to advocate for a climate "loss and damage fund" at COP28, which is designed to compensate developing nations for climate impacts that they did not create. It is a key priority for the Philippines, which is exposed to outsize risk from strengthened storms. 

In his stead, Marcos has appointed environment secretary Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga to lead the Philippine delegation to Dubai. "The Loss and Damage Fund is extremely important because there are climate-related adverse impacts that are beyond our ability to finance,” said Loyzaga.

According to the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, the seafarers aboard Galaxy Leader are well and unharmed. Though the crew were accosted and threatened at gunpoint during the boarding, from outward appearances, the circumstances on board appear to have become more relaxed. Videos and photos posted to social media by local Yemenis appear to depict a party atmosphere, with Houthi "tourist" visitors coming and going from shore, hookah smoking, consumption of qat (an herbal drug with amphetamine-like effects), and celebratory dancing on the top deck. Some of the videos appear to show crewmembers joining in. 

Satellite imaging shows that the vessel has been relocated about 25 nm north from Hudaidah to As-Salif, where it remains at anchor. 

Indian unit reaches construction milestone

01 December 2023

Hot conditioning of unit 7 at the Rajasthan Atomic Power Plant has been completed, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd has announced. The unit is the third in a series of indigenously designed 700 MWe pressurised heavy water reactors.

(Image: Pixabay)

"Unit 7 of Rajasthan Atomic Power Project 7&8 … achieved a major milestone of successful completion of Hot Conditioning of the Primary Heat Transport (PHT) system on November 30, 2023," NPCIL said. "Hot conditioning is a commissioning process to develop an adherent protective layer of magnetite in inner surfaces of carbon steel piping of the PHT system. Hot conditioning was achieved by circulating light water of controlled chemistry through the PHT system, maintaining a temperature around 256°C and pressure of about 100 kg/cm2."

This is a prelude to "further commissioning activities" including fuel loading and first criticality, the company added.

Two 700 MWe PHWRs are under construction at the plant at Rawatbhata in Rajasthan, where five PHWR units are currently in operation (one unit, the 90 MWe (net) Rajasthan 1, was permanently closed in 2004 after more than 30 years in operation). Construction of units 7 and 8 began in 2011 and once they are completed, the installed capacity at the site will increase to 2580 MW, NPCIL said.

The first Indian-designed 700 MWe PHWR, Kakrapar 3, began commercial operation earlier this year and fuel loading began at the second, Kakrapar 4, in October.

In addition, four Russian-supplied 1000 MWe VVER pressurised water reactors are currently under construction at Kudankulam: units 3 and 4, under construction since 2017, and units 5 and 6, under construction since 2021. A 500 MWe prototype fast breeder reactor is also under construction at Kalpakkam.

Researched and written by World Nuclear News

 

Swedish nuclear bill passed by parliament

30 November 2023

Sweden's parliament has approved a bill that will clear the way for new nuclear power in the country by removing the current limit on the number of nuclear reactors in operation, as well as allowing reactors to be built on new sites. The amendment will enter into force on 1 January.

The Riksdag's East Wing (Image: Swedish Parliament)

The Riksdag voted in favour of the government's legislative proposal on new nuclear power in Sweden on Wednesday.

"The legislative amendments will allow for new reactors to be constructed in locations other than Forsmark, Ringhals and Oskarshamn. In addition to this, it will be permitted for more than 10 reactors to be in operation at the same time," the Riksdag said.

"The Riksdag shares the Government’s assessment that fossil-free electricity from nuclear power will also continue to play a role of central importance in the Swedish energy mix. The main reasons for this are an expected greater demand for electricity in combination with the fact that fossil fuels have to be phased out, particularly for climate reasons. Nuclear power also contributes to the stable and predictable functioning of the Swedish power system."

Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Climate and Environment Minister Romina Pourmokhtari formally presented a proposal to amend Sweden's legislation on nuclear power, which limited to 10 the number of reactors in operation and only allowed reactors to be built at existing sites. The proposed legislative amendments were open for consultation for three months.

The Swedish government recently unveiled a roadmap envisaging the construction of new nuclear generating capacity equivalent to at least two large-scale reactors by 2035, with up to ten new large-scale reactors coming online by 2045.

Researched and written by World Nuclear News

 SMR fuel supply chain grows as agreements signed

30 November 2023

Ontario Power Generation has selected suppliers Cameco, Urenco USA, Orano and Global Nuclear Fuel-Americas for the first fuel contracts for its planned small modular reactor (SMR) units at the Darlington New Nuclear Project, while TerraPower and uranium producer Uranium Energy Corp are to work together on the fuel supply chain ahead of the construction of the first-of-a-kind Natrium plant.

OPG and its partners made their announcement at World Nuclear Exhibition 2023 in Paris (Image: X/@urencoglobal)

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) between TerraPower, which is planning to build the Natrium demonstration project at Kemmerer in Wyoming, and Uranium Energy Corp (UEC) has the goal of re-establishing domestic US supply chains of uranium fuel. It will also allow the two companies to explore the potential supply of uranium for TerraPower's first-of-kind Natrium reactor and energy storage system, they said.

The Natrium technology is a 345 MW sodium-cooled fast reactor coupled with a molten salt-based energy storage system than can boost power output to 500 MW to serve peak demand. Earlier this year, TerraPower awarded contracts to four companies to supply services and equipment for the demonstration project, and signed an MoU with Centrus Energy Corp aimed at establishing commercial-scale, US production capabilities for the high-assay, low-enriched uranium (HALEU) the reactor will need.

UEC's Wyoming production platform includes a portfolio of more than 20 uranium projects including four that are fully permitted for in-situ leach production including the Irigaray Central Processing Plant and Christensen Ranch ISR facilities in Johnson County, Wyoming where UEC's initial production will be focused.

The MoU between TerraPower and UEC is a "great step forward" for Wyoming's uranium industry, its Governor Mark Gordon said. "TerraPower chose Wyoming as a partner for their Natrium advanced nuclear reactor plant. Once again, they are demonstrating leadership and commitment to a nuclear future in Wyoming through this MoU with Uranium Energy Corp."

"TerraPower continues to move forward in bringing the Natrium reactor to market, and that includes establishing our fuel supply chain," said the company's President and CEO Chris Levesque. "A robust, domestic supply chain for nuclear fuel is crucial as we deploy the next generation of nuclear energy."

UEC President and CEO Amir Adnani said the company was pleased to form strategic relationships that support the emerging uranium demand from SMRs and advanced reactors. "In these geopolitically complex times, UEC's vision is to be the leading provider of conflict-free, American uranium for the existing, as well as the new reactors that will come online," he said.

OPG selects suppliers

OPG plans to finish building the first of a fleet of four GE-HItcahi BWRX-300 SMRs at its Darlington New Nuclear site by the end of 2028, and to get the unit online by the end of 2029. It has now announced that it has selected four companies from Canada, the USA and France to partner with to ensure a fuel supply for the first of those units.

Canadian company Cameco will be contracted to supply natural uranium hexafluoride; US-based, Urenco USA will provide uranium enrichment services from its operations in Eunice, New Mexico; France's Orano will provide additional enriched uranium product from its operations in France; and GE-led, US-based, joint venture Global Nuclear Fuel-Americas LLC will provide fuel fabrication and related technical services and fuel assemblies.

These "historic arrangements" signal a strengthening nuclear fuel supply chain and the self-sufficiency of nations that are developing nuclear generation to decarbonise their economies, the company said.

"Access to clean energy at large scale is becoming a key determinant of a country's competitiveness and security," OPG President and CEO Ken Hartwick said. "Because of our leadership in nuclear generation and supply chains, Ontario and Canada are well-positioned to work with companies from like-minded ally nations to send an important message to the world that a safe, secure, clean global energy system is achievable through nuclear power."

The announcement sees OPG become Urenco's first commercial customer for enrichment services in Canada as well as being also the first customer to sign a long-term fuel supply agreement for an SMR, Urenco said.

"New nuclear technology will play a vital part in both the decarbonisation of electricity and the strengthening of energy security around the world," Urenco Chief Commercial Officer Laurent Odeh said. "Urenco has the knowledge and experience to play a leading role in the supply of enriched uranium for the reactors of tomorrow and is proud to be a supplier for this innovative and exciting project in Canada with our newest customer, OPG."

Researched and written by World Nuclear News

Turkey's Erdogan rejects US pressure to cut Hamas ties

Erdogan now refers to Netanyahu as "the butcher of Gaza"

Istanbul (AFP) – Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Saturday pushed back against mounting US pressure to cut Ankara's historic ties with Hamas in the wake of the militants' unprecedented attacks on Israel.

Issued on: 02/12/2023 

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan views Hamas as the legitimately elected leaders of Gaza 

The US Treasury's top terrorism financing official conveyed Washington's "profound" alarm about Ankara's past relations with Hamas during a visit to Turkey this week.

Under Secretary Brian Nelson said Washington has not detected any money passing through Turkey to Hamas since the Gaza war broke out eight weeks ago.

But he argued that Ankara had helped Hamas access funding in the past and should now use local laws to clamp down on potential future transfers.

Erdogan said Saturday that Washington was well aware that Turkey does not view Hamas as a terrorist organisation.

"First of all, Hamas is a reality of Palestine, it is a political party there and it entered the elections as a political party and won," he said in remarks released by his office.

"We form our foreign policy in Ankara and design it only according to Turkey's interests and the expectations of our people," Erdogan said.

"I am sure that our interlocutors appreciate Turkey's consistent and balanced foreign policy steps in such humanitarian crises and conflicts."

Israel on Friday resumed punishing air strikes after the sides failed to extend a seven-day truce that had seen 80 Israeli hostages released in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners.

Hamas fighters killed about 1,200 people -- mostly civilians -- and took around 240 Israelis and foreigners hostage, Israeli officials say, after breaking through the militarised border into southern Israel on October 7.

The Hamas authorities who run Gaza say Israel's retaliatory air and ground campaign has killed more than 15,000 people -- also mostly civilians.

'Butcher of Gaza'

Erdogan has been one of the Muslim world's most vocal critics of Israel's military tactics in Gaza.

He recalled Ankara's envoy to Tel Aviv and demanded that Israel's commanders and political leaders be put on trial for "war crimes" at the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

Hamas political leaders have used Istanbul as one of their foreign bases during Erdogan's two-decade rule.

Turkish media have reported that they relocated to Qatar after Ankara voiced displeasure with social media images purporting to show Hamas officials celebrating the October 7 attacks.

But they have since visited Istanbul on at least one reported occasion for undisclosed talks.

Erdogan last officially met Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Istanbul in July.

He followed that up with talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in September on the sidelines of a United Nations gathering in New York.

The meeting was aimed at paving the way for what would have been a highly significant visit to Turkey by the Israeli premier.

The Gaza war has torn those budding ties to shreds.

Erdogan now refers to Netanyahu as "the butcher of Gaza" and talks up the prospects of the Israeli leader being tried in The Hague.

"Our expectation is that these perpetrators of genocide, these butchers of Gaza who were caught red-handed -- especially Netanyahu -- will receive the just punishment," Erdogan said on Saturday.

© 2023 AFP

IMF to revise regional outlook over Israel-Hamas conflict

Washington (AFP) – The IMF announced Friday that it will revise its economic outlook for the Middle East and North Africa region due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

Issued on: 01/12/2023 - 

The IMF said it is revising the economic outlook for MENA countries due to the Israel-Hamas conflict 

© MAHMUD HAMS / AFP


The conflict will have wide-ranging consequences for "both people and economies" in the region, although the extent of the impact remains "highly uncertain," the International Monetary Fund staff wrote in a blog post.

It did not say if the revisions would be released ahead of its next outlook publication, which is due in January.

"A large-scale conflict would constitute a major economic challenge for the region," they said, calling on the international community to act to prevent further escalation.

In the event of a large-scale conflict, "what is certain is that forecasts for the most directly exposed economies will be downgraded and that policies to buffer economies against shocks and preserve stability will be critical," the post added.
Tourism hard hit

Israel resumed its deadly bombardment of the Gaza Strip on Friday after a fragile truce broke down, saying it had struck more than 200 targets in the densely inhabited Palestinian territory despite international calls for a renewed pause.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas broke out on October 7, when gunmen from the militant group stormed across the border from Gaza into Israel, killing around 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and taking around 240 people hostage, according to the Israeli authorities.

In response, Israel announced it would destroy Hamas and began a relentless bombardment of the Palestinian territory.

More than 15,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have been killed across the Gaza Strip since then, according to the Hamas government's Ministry of Health, including at least 178 people on Friday alone.

Among the hardest-hit sectors in the region outside of Israel and the Palestinian territories has been tourism, which the IMF said accounted for between 35 percent and almost 50 percent of goods and services exports in MENA economies in 2019.

"Tourism-dependent economies like Lebanon, where hotel occupancy rates fell by 45 percentage points in October compared to a year ago, will see knock-on effects for growth," the IMF officials said.

Elevated risk due to the conflict could push up borrowing costs, with knock-on effects for highly indebted economies, they warned.

In the event the conflict continues, "fragile and conflict-affected states in the region, such as Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen, could experience a decline in critical aid flows, if the focus of donors shifts away," the IMF officials said.

They added that refugee flows could also increase "significantly," which would add to "social and fiscal pressures in the countries that receive them."

© 2023 AFP

‘Everything indicates’ Chinese ship damaged Baltic pipeline on purpose, Finland says


‘I would think that you would notice that you’re dragging an anchor behind you for hundreds of kilometers,’ says minister.

Finland and Estonia have since been in touch with Chinese authorities seeking their cooperation with the investigation |

 Heikki Saukkomaa/Lehtikuva/AFP via Getty Images

BY CLAUDIA CHIAPPA AND PIERRE EMMANUEL NGENDAKUMANA
DECEMBER 1, 2023 

BRUSSELS — As the investigation into damage to Baltic Sea critical infrastructure continues, Finland's Minister of European Affairs Anders Adlercreutz said it’s hard to believe sabotage to the undersea gas pipeline was accidental — or that it happened without Beijing’s knowledge.

“I'm not the sea captain. But I would think that you would notice that you're dragging an anchor behind you for hundreds of kilometers,” Adlercreutz said in an interview Thursday in Brussels. “I think everything indicates that it was intentional. But of course, so far, nobody has admitted to it.”

Finland and Estonia have been investigating the rupture of the Balticconnector, a 77-kilometer-long gas pipeline that connects the two NATO members beneath the Baltic Sea. The pipeline was damaged around October 7-8, along with two telecoms cables connecting Estonia to Finland and Sweden.


An investigation by Finnish authorities identified as the main suspect Chinese container ship Newnew Polar Bear, which is believed to have dragged its anchor across the Baltic Sea seabed, cutting through the cables and gas lines. The anchor — which weighs 6,000 kilograms — was retrieved a few meters from the site of the damage.

Finland and Estonia have since been in touch with Chinese authorities seeking their cooperation with the investigation. The Baltic Times reported earlier this week that the two European countries have asked to send representatives to Beijing to investigate the vessel, which is currently en route to a Chinese port.

Adlercreutz said he can’t speculate on whether the action was approved by the Chinese government. But the vessel’s imminent return to China raises some questions, he said.

“If I as a captain would have done something that the Chinese government wouldn't approve of, then I would be concerned about returning with my boat to China,” he said.

Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur expressed similar sentiment in an interview with Swedish public broadcaster SVT last month, saying the captain of the ship surely "understood that there was something wrong" after dragging an anchor for over 180 kilometers.

Coming more than a year after the Nord Stream gas pipelines connecting Russia to Germany were damaged by several explosions, the Balticconnector incident raises more concerns over the safety of undersea critical infrastructure and possible measures to protect them from external sabotage. No culprit has been identified for the Nord Stream attack despite an international investigation.

Adlercreutz said there should be "more protection" of these types of infrastructure, for example in terms of better surveillance of suspicious ships. But there are limitations to what can be done, he added.

UN experts urge shift towards human rights economy to prevent contemporary forms of slavery

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery - 2 December 2023

GENEVA (1 December 2023) – The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is a poignant reminder that contemporary forms of slavery – including forced labour, forced marriage, domestic servitude, debt bondage, and child marriage and labour – continue to persist in our increasingly digital world, UN experts* said today. Ahead of the international day, they issued a joint statement, summarized below:

“As we continue to rebuild and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, we must move on from the outdated notion that economic growth on its own is sufficient to address poverty and structural inequalities, key factors that enable contemporary forms of slavery.

The COVID-19 pandemic refuted this model, exposing how those facing discrimination prior to the pandemic were disproportionately affected, and continue to face a steeper road to recovery, including women and girls, who comprise over half of the nearly 50 million people subject to contemporary forms of slavery, a testament to enduring gender inequality. Such pre-existing vectors of inequality were exacerbated as millions of workers were pushed into unemployment or into the ever-expanding gig economy, with jobs characterised by casualty, precariousness, and a lack of social benefits – conditions ripe for contemporary forms of slavery, among other grave human rights violations.

This paradigm of unsustainable and unequal growth promotes a race to the bottom where workers are treated as a disposable commodity in the name of maximising profits. We must work instead towards the realisation of a human rights economy that places people and the planet at the heart of economic policies, investment decisions, consumer choices, and business models to enhance the enjoyment of human rights for all in the long term.

The transition towards a human rights economy requires the active engagement of the private sector. This is especially true of the technology sector and the transnational giants within this sector, given the outsize role these companies’ products and services play in our daily lives, in shaping global markets and policies, and enabling or inhibiting the expression of fundamental rights, including through preventing and facilitating contemporary forms of slavery.

A human rights economy must meet the Sustainable Development Goals’ imperative to “leave no one behind”, including those who have experienced or are at risk of contemporary forms of slavery. The UN Voluntary Trust Fund on Contemporary Forms of Slavery helps thousands of slavery survivors worldwide to receive essential services and supports civil society to combat and address these practices. Member States and companies should contribute to the Fund, to strengthen the anti-slavery movement.

As we prepare to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights next week, we reemphasise its absolute prohibition of slavery or servitude in all its forms. We must not let the call to “build back better” from the pandemic be empty rhetoric. We must heed the High Commissioner’s clarion call for a human rights economy if we are to achieve a world free of contemporary forms of slavery.”

See full statement here.

STATEMENTS

International Day for the Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade


PRESS RELEASES

Modern slavery: “Regulation of labour markets key to eradicate forced labour” – UN rights experts


PRESS RELEASES

Modern slavery: UN rights experts welcome new international agreement on forced labour

OPINION

Russian military companies in Africa: A post-Wagner outlook

December 1, 2023 

PMC Wagner Group flag is seen in Rostov-on-Don, Russia on August 24, 2023. [Vladimir Alexandrov – Anadolu Agency]

by Huseyin Ozdemir


In the past decade, Russia has joined the chorus of governments using private military companies (PMCs) to shape the security landscape in Africa.

However, the recent mutiny of Wagner against the Kremlin has caused some noticeable shifts in the relationship between the central power in Moscow, PMCs and their clients.

The Kremlin’s power was fully restored following the death of Wagner’s rebellious leader, Yevgeny Prigozhin. However, this was only half of the task. The other half was to restore the nexus with Wagner’s clients, especially in Africa.

Recent visits by Russian officials to African countries further emphasised the continent’s significance for Moscow. Three key figures seem to be leading this effort: Yunus-Bek Yevkurov, Andrei Averyanov and Konstantin Mirzayants.

After a decade of shady interventions, Wagner made a name in several operational theatres, ranging from the Libyan fault lines to war-torn Sudan and the Central African Republic. In one of his last videos, Prigozhin underscored the significance of Wagner’s missions in Africa.

But Wagner was more than a normal PMC; it orchestrated a multibillion-dollar operation, weaving a complex tapestry that spans from diamonds to uranium, while drawing significant financial dividends.

It is worth noting that several key African leaders who participated in the Africa Summit held in St. Petersburg in July 2023 met with Prigozhin.

Read: Turkiye faces scrutiny as exports to Russia surge, fuelling concerns of sanctions evasion

After Prigozhin’s demise, Russian military officials increased visits to Africa, including Libya, Burkina Faso, Mali and the Central African Republic, validating the significance of the continent for Russia’s foreign policy.

However, questions arose after Wagner’s rebellion. Some pundits assumed that this could be the end of Moscow’s manoeuvres in Africa. But such assessments could not be further from the truth.

Experts speculate that Putin has already chosen a new envoy in Africa and General Averyanov is carrying this role. However, uncertainties abound concerning Averyanov’s ability to fill this role. Prigozhin offered a comprehensive package to these countries, ranging from interference in election results to pressuring the media.

Moreover, Prigozhin was not a normal CEO. He was also the financier of Wagner’s operations. Therefore, whoever replaces him must have deep pockets or access to the Kremlin’s financial muscles. Hence, someone from Putin’s inner circle, like Averyanov, can play a pivotal role.

The intricacies of diplomatic relations and the nuances of personal connections forged by Prigozhin during his tenure present a unique challenge for Averyanov as he steps into this pivotal role. In any case, whoever is stepping in to fill Prigozhin’s shoes must play similar roles if he wants to succeed.

Emerging Russian PMCs, such as Redut and Convoy, led by personalities like Yevkurov and Averyanov, face an uphill challenge in the post-Wagner era.

Yevkurov steadily climbed the steps of power. He served as the head of the southern Russian republic of Ingushetia for 11 years. In 2019, Putin appointed him as the deputy minister of defence in charge of combat training. Yevkurov is recognised for his extensive experience in the military field, evidenced by the various roles he has undertaken throughout his career. During Wagner’s mutiny attempt, Yevkurov also met with Prigozhin in Rostov-on-Don to quell the mutiny. A video circulated in the press about this encounter.

The other rising star is Averyanov, a Russian intelligence chief (GRU) general known for conducting several destabilisation operations in Europe. Putin personally introduced him at the African Summit.

Some analysts suspect that Moscow will not put all its assets in one basket. Rather, the power of PMCs will be split among a few players. This power distribution signals that the Kremlin prefers controllable and pliable actors in the aftermath of the Wagner mutiny. They reckon both Yevkurov and Averyanov will spearhead a new power structure that oversees the expansion of Russian PMCs in Africa.

Others believe that Mirzayants is the leader of the Redut PMC. According to the Financial Times, Ukrainian intelligence suggests that Redut comprises approximately 7,000 soldiers.

Read: Will Falcon be Egypt’s Wagner?

Meanwhile, Russian officials are seen promoting Redut as an alternative to Wagner; other Russian PMCs like Convoy are also active. This diversification could be part of a strategic decision that enables Russia to control this market evenly and avoid another drift like the one caused by Wagner. However, there are doubts whether Redut or Convoy can be as successful as Wagner, especially considering the level of symbiosis achieved and the comprehensive services offered.

Hence, Redut and Convoy are the new game in town. The question remains, though, about whether this transition would work seamlessly. The frequency of high-level Russian official visits suggests the Kremlin prioritises this subject.

Prigozhin’s death has opened a can of worms for Moscow in Africa. Until local African forces reach the necessary capacity, PMCs like Redut and Convoy will remain significant actors on the continent.

Russia will not relinquish the PMCs’ card – on the contrary. The Kremlin is doubling its efforts to expand its influence in Africa, a process that took decades and was supported by economic and military aid. Russia will not back down because it sees windows of opportunity in the continent, which is slowly moving away from the domination of the likes of France and the US, whose governments made life difficult for the Kremlin in Ukraine and elsewhere.