Japan:
¶ After a lengthy self-investigation, TEPCO has proclaimed itself exonerated on the Fukushima Disaster. In reporting the event, this article notes that the utility “has worked vigilantly to shut out close scrutiny of the ravaged plant’s condition.” [New York Times]
¶ TEPCO does, however, admit it underestimated the risk of tsunami. [The Province]
¶ The Japanese Diet has approved a bill to produce an independent nuclear regulatory agency. [Power Engineering]
¶ Toshiba is planning the largest solar farm in Japan so far. It will be sited in Minamisoma and will cost ¥30 billion ($380 million). [Tokyo Times]
World:
¶ Nuclear plant operators must be prepared for flaws in the design basis, according to officials of the European Nuclear Security Regulators Group. This means that nuclear plants have to incorporate safety features to deal with problems that cannot be anticipated. [Platts]
¶ The French government is calling for tougher sanctions against Iran after nuclear talks in Moscow broke down. [Press TV]
US:
¶ Union workers at the Pilgrim nuclear power plant have rejected the contract offered them, extending the lock-out. [Boston Herald]
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