Turbine likely behind fire at Michigan nuclear plant
MICHIGAN - Officials at American Electric Power Co. say they know the cause of a fire that led to a shutdown of one of two reactors at the Donald C. Cook Nuclear Plant in southwestern Michigan.
The utility says the fire in Unit 1 of the plant in Berrien County's Lake Township began when turbine vibrations caused a generator to leak hydrogen that ignited.
The Columbus, Ohio-based utility says fire damage is minimal but the vibrations more seriously damaged turbines, bearing supports and some steam piping.
An imbalance from the loss of turbine rotor blades probably caused the vibrations.
It will take one to three weeks to complete turbine inspections, then officials will have a better idea of when they can restart the reactor.
Related News
Ontario looks to build on electricity deal with Quebec
TORONTO - Ontario is negotiating a possible agreement to buy electricity from Quebec, but the government is disputing a published report that it is preparing to sign a deal for enough electricity to power a city the size of Ottawa.
La Presse reported Tuesday that it obtained a copy of a draft, 20-year deal that says Ontario would buy eight terawatt hours a year from Quebec – about 6 per cent of Ontario’s consumption – whether the electricity is consumed or not.
Ontario Energy Minister Glenn Thibeault’s office said the province is in discussions to build on an agreement signed last year…
