The UK Atomic Energy Authority has achieved a breakthrough in the industrial-scale production of fusion-grade reduced-activation ferritic-martensitic steel, which can withstand extreme temperatures and high neutron loads that are crucial for the integrity of future fusion power plants. The discovery could potentially reduce production costs by up to 90%. The Neutron Irradiation of Advanced Steels consortium demonstrated the process using a seven-ton electric arc furnace at the Materials Processing Institute, laying the foundation for more efficient nuclear fusion power plants.
The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission has yet to approve NextEra Energy's request for a 20-year extension for the Point Beach Nuclear Plant in Wisconsin. Similarly, Holtec International's plan to restart the Palisades Nuclear Plant in Michigan is under scrutiny, with the NRC requiring proof of safety, particularly concerning the plant's damaged steam generator tubes.
Many in the energy transition space may feel uneasy heading into 2025, but five takeaways from last year can help ensure success, asserts BloombergNEF's Albert Cheung. First and foremost, clean energy deployments surged in 2024 and don't show any sign of slowing down. It's also important to recognize that this stage of transition isn't supposed to be easy -- the low-hanging fruit has been picked, and it's natural for things to feel more challenging now, writes Cheung.
Indonesia's National Energy Council has proposed 29 sites for potential nuclear power plants to secure reliable energy and reduce carbon emissions. The council has engaged with companies from China and Russia, and the government is developing a roadmap addressing safety and technology.
In a $26.6 billion deal, Constellation plans to acquire Calpine, merging two major power companies to create a leading US electric supplier. The acquisition will expand Constellation's geographic footprint and energy capacity, emphasizing zero- and low-emission sources. The deal involves a combination of shares, cash and debt assumption. The merger is expected to generate significant free cash flow, enabling strategic reinvestment in clean energy initiatives. The transaction awaits regulatory clearance and is projected to close within a year.
Saudi Arabia is set to enrich uranium as part of its strategy to monetize mineral resources, says Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman. The Kingdom aims to expand its nuclear program to include uranium enrichment, moving under regular UN safeguards by the end of 2024.
Naarea, the developer of the XAMR ultra-compact molten salt fast neutron reactor, has partnered with QGEMS to integrate advanced energy management into Naarea's operations. The collaboration aims to optimize energy production and distribution, with its initial focus on the US and UK markets. The XAMR is designed to be deployed close to where it's needed to match energy demand and ensure supply security.
Scientists working with the EUROfusion consortium have discovered that energetic ions can influence edge-localized modes, which cause energy and particle loss in fusion reactors. The study, conducted at the ASDEX Upgrade tokamak in Germany, shows that energetic ions can alter the spatiotemporal pattern of these magnetohydrodynamic waves, potentially offering a new way to control them and improve reactor efficiency.
