African countries mull nuclear energy as Russia extends offers

Moscow is sure to tout nuclear energy at the Russia-Africa Summit, selling it as a solution for the continent’s power supply woes. So just how concerned should we be about its intentions and Africa’s readiness? Southern Africa’s ongoing drought has had a devastating impact on the region’s power supply. Water levels at Kariba Dam, which …

What if Suncor Energy used Canadian uranium to clean up its oil sands-tainted image?

Suncor Energy has an image problem that seems incurable. The Alberta oil sands giant produces vast amounts of synthetic crude oil, a product that comes with a rather frightening carbon footprint. As the oil sands expand, Suncor will become an ever-bigger target for climate-change activists and green-tinged politicians. Even Justin Trudeau, who may or may …

Paladin looks to rapid restart for Langer Heinrich

Paladin Energy Ltd’s pre-feasibility study (PFS) for the restart of the Langer Heinrich uranium mine has delivered improved economics and potential for capacity expansion. The Namibian mine could return to production within 12 months of a restart decision and favourable market conditions, the company said. Western Australia-based Paladin began the two-stream PFS in March. The …

Brazil willing to open uranium deposits to private sector companies

Brazil’s mines and energy minister, Bento Albuquerque, said the country expects to resume production at the country’s only uranium mine before the end of the year and would open the sector to private companies. The move to restart Caetité, halted since 2014, is President Jair Bolsonaro’s administration latest efforts to attract foreign commercial interest to an …

EDF Says Nuclear Reactors May Have Flawed Parts

Electricite de France SA, which dominates the nation’s power production, said some of its reactors may contain substandard components. The utility’s shares tumbled. EDF didn’t say if any of the country’s 58 reactors will have to be halted, but electricity prices surged in anticipation of shutdowns. The announcement is another blow to the nuclear industry …