Fuel pool cooling in progress at Fukushima

FUKUSHIMA, JAPAN - Workers reconnected power lines to all six reactor units at Japan's radiation-leaking nuclear plant, its operator said, marking a significant step in bringing the overheated complex under control.

In making an announcement after days of anxious waiting by the public, Tokyo Electric Power Co. cautioned that much work needed to be done before the electricity can be turned on. Workers are checking all additional equipment for damage to make sure cooling systems can be safely operated, Tokyo Electric said.

In another advance, emergency crews dumped 18 tons of seawater into nearly boiling storage pool holding spent nuclear fuel, cooling it to 50 degrees Celsius, Japan's nuclear safety agency said. Steam, possibly carrying radioactive elements, had been rising for two days, and the move lessens the chances that more radiation will seep into the air.

Added up, the power lines and sustained dousing bring authorities closer to bringing the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear complex, with its six reactors and spent fuel pools, under control. Officials and experts, however, have said days, even weeks would be needed to replace damaged equipment and vent any volatile gas to make sure electricity does not spark an explosion.

Related News

yukon wind

Yukon receives funding for new wind turbines

DESTRUCTION BAY, YUKON - Kluane First Nation in Yukon will receive a total of $3.1 million in funding from the federal government to install and operate wind turbines that will help reduce the community’s diesel reliance.

According to a release, the community will integrate three 100-kilowatt turbines in Destruction Bay, Yukon, providing a renewable energy source for their local power grid that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create local jobs.

A $2-million investment from Natural Resources Canada came from the Clean Energy for Rural and Remote Communities Program, part of the Government of Canada’s Investing in Canada infrastructure plan. Crown-Indigenous Relations’…

READ MORE

Overturning statewide vote, Maine court energizes Hydro-Quebec's bid to export power

READ MORE

Opp Leader calls for electricity market overhaul to favor consumers over generators

READ MORE

tucson line workers

Cost, safety drive line-burying decisions at Tucson Electric Power

READ MORE

electricity changes

3 ways 2021 changed electricity - What's Next

READ MORE