Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

Fukushima on 29 Jan

reactors 1, 2

reactor 3

reactors 3, 4

reactors 5, 6

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

[Reference] Water leakage in Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station on January 29, 2012
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120129_03-e.pdf
Plant Status of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (as of 11:30 am, January 29)
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12012903-e.html
___________________________________________________
NHK world

IAEA inspection team heads to Iran

Sunday, January 29, 2012 05:27 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120129_04.html

Gov to purchase new cesium detection equipment

Japan's health ministry will subsidize half the cost of installing highly sensitive radioactive cesium detectors in an effort to strengthen food safety standards nationwide.

Sunday, January 29, 2012 09:01 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120129_07.html

IAEA plans to open office in Fukushima

The UN nuclear organization is considering opening an office in Fukushima to advise Japan on addressing the prolonged aftermath of the devastating nuclear accident.

Sunday, January 29, 2012 10:59 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120129_08.html

Radiation study of wildlife planned in Fukushima

Japan will launch a comprehensive study to monitor the impact of radiation exposure on wild animals and plants around the damaged nuclear plant in Fukushima.

Sunday, January 29, 2012 11:53 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120129_10.html

Frozen water blamed for leaks at Fukushima plant

Tokyo Electric Power Company has found water leaks in 14 locations at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.

Sunday, January 29, 2012 23:42 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120129_23.html
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Yomiuri online

System eyed to predict spread of terror substances

The Defense Ministry plans to develop a system to predict the spread of hazardous substances if they are released into the environment by terrorists or as the result of accidents.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120128003639.htm

Radiation testing on school lunches differs

FUKUSHIMA--Municipalities are carrying out tests for radioactive substances on ingredients used in school lunches, but parents are worried whether their children are adequately protected as the tests are conducted in various ways.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120128003573.htm

Kawauchi govt heading home / Village 1st to return among those forced out by Fukushima N-crisis

FUKUSHIMA--The government of a village forced to relocate due to the Fukushima nuclear crisis will return to the village in April, it has been learned, a move it hopes also will encourage residents to come back.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120128003366.htm

Free care for Fukushima kids rejected

FUKUSHIMA--The government has turned down a request by the Fukushima prefectural government to make medical care free for prefectural residents aged 18 and under.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120128003369.htm
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AJW

TEPCO comes 2nd in vote for most irresponsible company

DAVOS, Switzerland--Tokyo Electric Power Co. was voted the world's second most irresponsible company in a poll by Greenpeace and other nongovernmental organizations at the World Economic Forum here.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201201290001 Why Godzilla? No sense. The two do not have relations
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

IAEA inspectors arrive in Iran for nuclear probe

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/01/29/20120129p2g00m0in019000c.html

Hosono to persuade local governments to accept debris

SENDAI, Japan (Kyodo) -- Environment Minister Goshi Hosono said Saturday the government will make further effort to persuade local governments to accept rubble from the areas devastated by the earthquake-tsunami disaster last March.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/29/20120129p2g00m0dm018000c.html

IAEA to set up Fukushima office to share info on nuclear crisis

DAVOS, Switzerland (Kyodo) -- The International Atomic Energy Agency plans to open a branch office in Japan's Fukushima Prefecture to promote international information sharing about the crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, IAEA chief Yukiya Amano said Saturday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/29/20120129p2g00m0in026000c.html
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Sankei news

Japanese smelt fishing on Hibara lake, Fukushima

Hibara lake
Kitashiobara, Fukushima 37.68382,140.056057

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

07:03
http://youtu.be/GyZRHekr6cg

Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station; Investigation results of the bottom of the sea in front of Units 5-6 Water Intakes
<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/PSZ_avrXqpI?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe> 27 Jan
http://tepco.webcdn.stream.ne.jp/www11/tepco/download/120130_01j.zip
____________________________________________________
NHK world

IAEA inspectors arrive in Iran over nuke row

Monday, January 30, 2012 05:36 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120130_04.html

TEPCO ordered to prevent water leaks at reactors

Japan's nuclear safety agency has instructed the operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant to prevent water leaks at the plant.

Monday, January 30, 2012 07:54 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120130_06.html

More water leaks found at Fukushima nuclear plant

More water leaks have been found at the troubled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Monday, January 30, 2012 13:10 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120130_13.html

Japan-made robots ready for Fukushima mission

Japanese researchers have completed the development of 2 new robots for work at the troubled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Monday, January 30, 2012 21:07 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120130_27.html
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Yomiuri online

Special hose used to clean contaminated paving stones

FUKUSHIMA--An ultrahigh-pressure hose has proved highly effective in decontaminating roads constructed with paving stones that have been contaminated by radioactive substances released from the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120129003222.htm
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AJW

TEPCO to ratchet up efforts to decontaminate water

To prevent a further contamination of the sea as occurred in December, Tokyo Electric Power Co. plans to remove about 1,000 kinds of radioactive materials from water at the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, sources said on Jan. 28.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201201300001

Fukushima pets in no-go zone face harsh winter
*REUTERS

FUKUSHIMA--Dogs and cats that were abandoned in the Fukushima exclusion zone after last year's nuclear crisis have had to survive high radiation and a lack of food, and they are now struggling with the region's freezing winter weather.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201201300063

Leaks sprout at 14 spots in Fukushima nuclear power plant

Some 7,800 liters of water leaked from a fuel rod storage pool and reactor cooling systems in the disabled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant on Jan. 29.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201201300042

Simulation forces Shiga to expand nuke evacuation zone

Shiga Prefecture will widen the evacuation zone set by the central government if a nuclear accident occurs in neighboring Fukui Prefecture, home to the most reactors in the nation, after a simulation showed radioactive contamination would be far spreading.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201201300046
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

U.N. nuclear inspection gets under way in Iran

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2g00m0in109000c.html

Water leaks at 14 points at Fukushima complex

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Sunday water leaks from 14 points at the troubled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant's facilities have been found, leading the operator to suspend the cooling of the spent fuel pool at its No. 4 reactor for two hours.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2g00m0dm010000c.html

'Worst scenario' on Fukushima crisis shared only by a few lawmakers

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Nuclear disaster minister Goshi Hosono has said "the worst scenario" on development of the nuclear crisis at the Fukushima complex, which was compiled two weeks after the crisis began, was shared only by a few lawmakers, including then Prime Minister Naoto Kan, due to fears it might cause confusion among the public.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2g00m0dm012000c.html

Electric companies' terror fears keep power lines off Japan topographical maps

It might not be something one would notice unless told, but the electronic versions of the official topographical maps of Japan are entirely bereft of one basic detail: power lines.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2a00m0na007000c.html

Gov't, TEPCO heading for showdown over electricity rate hike

The 17 percent average electricity rate hike for businesses announced by Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) -- the operator of the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant -- may face stiff opposition from a government organization overseeing nuclear disaster compensation.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2a00m0na008000c.html

Evacuees of Fukushima village report split families, growing frustration

IITATE, Fukushima -- Frustration, deteriorating health, and a growing feeling of unfair treatment are being reported by residents who have evacuated from this village, a local government survey has found.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2a00m0na009000c.html

Mayor protests TEPCO's refusal to boost nuclear compensation payment

KAZO, Saitama -- The mayor of Futaba, Fukushima Prefecture, has criticized Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) over its refusal to boost compensation to a man affected by the nuclear disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2a00m0na010000c.html

Gov't starts study of radiation effects on wildlife near Fukushima plant

The Ministry of the Environment has started a study to examine the effects of radiation from the disaster-struck Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant on nearby plant and wildlife, particularly their reproductive functions.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2a00m0na011000c.html

Gov't divided on plans to split TEPCO's business functions

A plan to split Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s (TEPCO) power generation and power transmission businesses into independent entities has stalled as opinions in the government lay divided.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2a00m0na016000c.html

Evacuees allowed to reclaim pets during 3rd no-go zone visit, but none found

TAMURA, Fukushima -- The third cycle of evacuees' temporary return to their homes in the no-go zone surrounding the damaged Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant began here on Jan. 29, with residents being allowing to take home stranded pet cats and dogs, though none were found.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/30/20120130p2a00m0na017000c.html
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Jiji press

Kyushu Electric Posts Worst-Ever Net Loss in April-Dec.

Fukuoka, Jan. 30 (Jiji Press)--Kyushu Electric Power Co. <9508> said Monday that it incurred a group net loss of 90,510 million yen in April-December, the worst-ever loss since its establishment in 1951.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012013000841

Japan's All Power, Gas Utilities to Raise Rates for March

Tokyo, Jan. 30 (Jiji Press)--Japan's all major electricity and gas suppliers said Monday they will raise monthly rates for March, due to rises in energy and material costs.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012013000864

Farm Group Cuts Fukushima Rice Prices

Fukushima, Jan. 30 (Jiji Press)--Japan's National Federation of Agricultural Cooperative Associations on Monday cut the wholesale prices of rice harvested in Fukushima Prefecture last year.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013000256

Kansai Electric Halts Thermal Power Unit due to Trouble

Osaka, Jan. 30 (Jiji Press)--Kansai Electric Power Co. <9503> said Monday that it has halted the No. 3 unit at its thermal power plant in the city of Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, western Japan, due to a mechanical trouble.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013000406

Over 40,000 Migrate from 3 Disaster-Hit Japan Prefectures in 2011

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013000788

IAEA Denies Fukushima Office Reports

Berlin, Jan. 30 (Jiji Press)--The International Atomic Energy Agency on Monday denied media reports that it will set up an office in Japan's Fukushima Prefecture to assist the country's work to further stabilize Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s <9501> crippled nuclear plant there.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013100113
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JMA

13:02 JST 30 Jan 2012 37.4N 141.9E 30 km M4.2 Fukushima-ken Oki


http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20120130130735391-301302.html

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

Press Release (Jan 31,2012)
Report to NISA upon the additional directive document regarding the leak of water containing radioactive material from the water desalination apparatus (evaporative concentration apparatus) of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12013108-e.html

Press Release (Jan 31,2012)
Evaluation status of internal exposure dose of emergency workers

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12013106-e.html
<Exhibit>　Distribution of Exposure Dose etc http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120131e5.pdf

Press Release (Jan 31,2012)
Power Supply to the Tohoku Electric Power Company (February 1)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12013107-e.html
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NHK world

Population in Tohoku declines

Tuesday, January 31, 2012 07:20 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120131_03.html

Govt plans Fukushima decontamination test-run

Japan's Environment Ministry has unveiled a model project designed to decontaminate areas with high levels of radiation around the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012 11:04 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120131_10.html

Illinois nuke plant shuts down after losing power

Tuesday, January 31, 2012 11:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120131_13.html

Govt okays bill for new nuclear regulatory agency

Japan's government has approved a bill to launch a new nuclear safety regulator in the wake of the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi plant.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012 12:26 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120131_14.html

IAEA endorses nuclear stress test oversight

International nuclear inspectors say the way Japan's nuclear agency has been overseeing safety tests at idled reactors is in line with international standards.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012 13:05 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120131_17.html

Kawauchi village to return home in April

The mayor of a village near the troubled Fukushima nuclear power plant has announced a schedule to start bringing home all evacuees in April.

Tuesday, January 31, 2012 19:05 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120131_25.html
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Yomiuri online

Editorial: Ensure successful test-run of nuclear recycling plant

Establishing technology to safely store and dispose of existing nuclear waste is an urgent task. We hope Japan Nuclear Fuel Ltd. will ensure that the trial operation of its nuclear fuel reprocessing plant succeeds.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/editorial/T120130003503.htm

Editorial: Stick to timetable to bring nuclear evacuees back home

The Environment Ministry recently released a timetable for decontamination operations in areas near the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, which are contaminated with radioactive substances emitted from the plant.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/editorial/T120130003502.htm

JNFL to resume vitrification tests shortly / 1st tests in 3 years; outcome to have significant impact on policy regarding nuclear fuel cycle

AOMORI--Japan Nuclear Fuel Ltd. plans to shortly resume vitrification tests, its first in three years, at its spent nuclear fuel reprocessing plant in the village of Rokkasho, Aomori Prefecture.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120130004967.htm
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AJW

Unknown banker becomes DPJ's point man in energy policy

In the early stages of the Fukushima nuclear crisis, when politicians were embroiled in fierce public feuds over how best to save Japan, a little-known banker continued to be the go-to man behind the scenes.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/analysis/AJ201201310044

Piping at Fukushima reactor found insufficient to withstand quake

Piping and support structures at the No. 5 reactor of the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant did not have sufficient anti-quake strength under new government standards revised in 2006.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201201310043

TEPCO will re-examine 17 percent corporate rate hike

Tokyo Electric Power Co. will take a second look at a proposed electric rate hike for corporate customers that will start in April, after feeling the heat from the central government and the business sector.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201201310040

IAEA urges Japan to further improve nuke plant safety tests

The International Atomic Energy Agency said Jan 31 that Japan's evaluation of stress tests carried out on shutdown nuclear power plants passes muster, but urged the country to take seven concrete steps to further improve the stress tests.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201201310052
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Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

front-page column: 'Shadow meals' employed to keep families safe from radiation

The practice of kagezen -- literally "shadow meal" -- entails setting out meals at home for a family member who is absent, in hopes that they will be safe while traveling. Meals were commonly prepared by family members waiting at home for the safe return of husbands and sons on distant battlefields, or fathers who were away as migrant workers. There may be some families today who practice kagezen for family members who are hospitalized or for children away on long school trips.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/perspectives/yoroku/news/20120131p2a00m0na003000c.html

NGO to hold exhibition on Iraq, Fukushima from Wed. in Tokyo

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- An exhibition on pediatric cancer patients in Iraq and people in Fukushima Prefecture affected by the Fukushima nuclear disaster will open on Wednesday at a restaurant in Tokyo, hosted by the Japanese nongovernmental group active in both areas.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/arts/archive/news/2012/01/20120131p2g00m0et128000c.html

Hibakusha: Nagasaki A-bomb survivor and Fukushima high schooler form bond

"May this year be one of hope," Masahito Hirose wrote in his New Year's cards this year. "Instead of simply saying 'Happy New Year,' I wanted to pray for people's happiness," the 81-year-old says.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/features/archive/news/2012/01/20120131p2a00m0na018000c.html

Kyushu Electric logs 90.5 bil. yen net loss in April-Dec.

FUKUOKA (Kyodo) -- Kyushu Electric Power Co. said Monday it swung into the red in the first three quarters of financial 2011 with a group net loss of 90.51 billion yen, the result of a rise in fuel costs for thermal power generation.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0bu108000c.html

Kansai Electric incurs group net loss of 118 bil. yen in April-Dec.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Kansai Electric Power Co. said Tuesday it fell into the red in the April-December period with a group net loss of 118.11 billion yen due to higher fuel costs for thermal power generation and idled nuclear reactors.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0bu144000c.html

U.S. nuclear reactor loses power, venting steam

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0in070000c.html

New regime in N. Korea to maintain nuclear ambitions: Seoul official

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0in071000c.html

Iran offers to extend U.N. nuclear inspection

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0in077000c.html

Experts meet in Vienna on health effects of Fukushima nuclear crisis

VIENNA (Kyodo) -- Experts from around the world who are studying the health impact on nearby residents from the release of radioactive materials in the nuclear crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant in northeastern Japan began a five-day meeting in Vienna on Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0dm004000c.html

Hacker rewrites website of gov't committee on nuclear disaster

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- A hacker rewrote the website of a government investigation committee on the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant disaster on Saturday night, but the site was restored by early Sunday, the committee's secretariat said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0dm014000c.html

METI to cap personnel costs to be reflected in utility bills

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The industry ministry is planning to set a cap on personnel costs to be reflected in power companies' decisions on electricity charges to curb hikes in household utility bills, amid surging fuel costs for expanded thermal power generation in the wake of the Fukushima nuclear crisis, ministry sources said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0dm018000c.html

Cabinet approves bills to enhance Japan's nuclear regulations

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan's Cabinet approved bills Tuesday aimed at enhancing nuclear safety regulations following the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi atomic power plant, including a plan to place in principle a 40-year limit on the operation of reactors.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0dm021000c.html

Farm ministry to hold symposium on decontamination in Fukushima

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The farm ministry said Tuesday it will hold an international symposium in Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture, in March to share Japan's experiences of promoting radioactive decontamination in farm soil in the wake of the nuclear crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0dm079000c.html

Japan's nuclear stress tests deemed consistent with IAEA standards

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- An International Atomic Energy Agency fact-finding team said Tuesday that Japan's nuclear stress tests, a key step for restarting idled reactors nationwide following the Fukushima nuclear crisis, are "generally consistent" with IAEA safety standards.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2g00m0dm081000c.html

Wind power station planned in place of nuclear plant in Wakayama town

WAKAYAMA -- A company partially financed by Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) is planning to build a wind power station in the Wakayama Prefecture town of Hidaka, which has abandoned plans to host a nuclear power plant, it has been learned.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2a00m0na005000c.html

Niigata nursery school workers set up space for Fukushima parents and children

KASHIWAZAKI, Niigata -- Nursery school workers have set up a child welfare facility here for parents displaced by the Fukushima nuclear disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2a00m0na010000c.html

IAEA report on 'stress test' soundness does not equal go-ahead for reactors

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) delegation reviewing the Japanese government's nuclear plant "stress test" deemed the procedure acceptable, and submitted its findings to the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency (NISA) on Jan. 31.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2a00m0na011000c.html

Furnace malfunction hobbles Aomori spent nuke fuel reprocessing plant

AOMORI -- A furnace malfunction at a nuclear fuel reprocessing plant here has stalled a planned trial run of the facility, throwing the future of Japan's nuclear cycle policy into doubt.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/01/31/20120131p2a00m0na016000c.html
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Jiji press

Japanese Power Suppliers Post Losses

Tokyo, Jan. 31 (Jiji Press)--Seven electricity companies in Japan posted group net losses for the nine months ended in December, due largely to rising fuel costs for thermal power plants amid the ongoing nuclear crisis.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012013101081

TEPCO to Review 17 Pct Rate Hike for Biz Users: Pres. Nishizawa

Tokyo, Jan. 31 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> President Toshio Nishizawa said Tuesday that his company will review its 17 pct power rate hike plan for large-lot business users after raising rates for households.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012013101115

Japan Govt Adopts Bill to Reform Nuclear Oversight

Tokyo, Jan.31 (Jiji Press)--The government adopted Tuesday a bill to reform Japan's nuclear oversight that would establish a regulatory body under the Environment Ministry and set a 40-year cap on nuclear power reactors.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013100457

Japan's Reactor Stress Tests Consistent with Int'l Standards: IAEA

Tokyo, Jan. 31 (Jiji Press)--The International Atomic Energy Agency concluded in a report Tuesday that the Japanese government is examining the results of nuclear reactor stress tests in a manner consistent with IAEA and other international safety standards.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013100482

Japan Atomic Energy Agency to Review Medium-Term Plan

Tokyo, Jan. 31 (Jiji Press)--The Japan Atomic Energy Agency plans to focus its research and development activities on areas related to decommissioning of nuclear reactors and decontamination, officials said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013101048

1,700 File Suit to Halt Kyushu Electric's Genkai N-Power Plant

Saga, Jan. 31 (Jiji Press)--A 1,700-strong group filed a lawsuit Tuesday seeking the suspension of operations at Kyushu Electric Power Co.'s <9508> Genkai nuclear power plant in Saga Prefecture, southwestern Japan.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013100984

Japan to Pick New Nuclear Watchdog's Head from Private Sector

Tokyo, Jan. 31 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government plans to select the first head of a new nuclear regulatory agency not from among bureaucrats but from the private sector, the minister in charge of the nuclear crisis said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013101054

Village near Fukushima N-Plant Declares End to Evacuation

Fukushima, Jan. 31 (Jiji Press)--The village of Kawauchi near the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant declared an end to evacuation on Tuesday and called on residents to return.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012013101004

Data-Sending Devices Unplugged at More Japan N-Plants on March 11

Tokyo, Jan. 31 (Jiji Press)--Devices to send nuclear reactor data to the Japanese government's emergency response system were left unplugged at three more nuclear power plants on March 11, 2011, the Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020100003

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

[Reference] Status of Water Leakage on the 1st floor of Unit 4 Reactor Building, Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (Test line of the Piping for Jet Pump Measurement)
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120201_01-e.pdf

[Reference]Water Leakage observed around the flowmeter of Emergency Reactor Injection Pump (C) on the Hill at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120201_02-e.pdf

[Reference]Measures against Freeze of Water Treatment Facility / Measures against Freeze of Reactor Water Injection System at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120201_03-e.pdf

Press Release (Feb 01,2012)
Commencement of demonstration test of "Smart Setsuden (Power Saving)"- Starting from February by "Smart Setsuden (Power Saving) Association" -

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020108-e.html

TEPCO electricity forecast

In detail http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12013107-e.html
___________________________________________________
NHK world

Iran ends "constructive" talks with IAEA

Wednesday, February 01, 2012 07:13 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120201_08.html

US: Iran has know-how to build nuclear weapon

Wednesday, February 01, 2012 10:18 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120201_10.html

Power restored at US nuclear plant

Wednesday, February 01, 2012 15:48 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120201_23.html

IAEA inspectors to make another trip to Iran

Wednesday, February 01, 2012 21:20 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120201_31.html
______________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

IAEA OK's stress test review process

U.N. nuclear experts gave the green light Tuesday to the Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency's review process of so-called stress tests for nuclear reactors.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120131006098.htm

REVITALIZING JAPAN -- Building a disaster-resistant nation / Smaller power sources surging with big potential

This is the second installment in the second half of the first part of a series of articles examining ways to restore Japan's vitality.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120131006093.htm

No minutes kept on past govt disaster meets

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120131005063.htm

Cabinet approves nuclear bills

The Cabinet approved a two-bill package Tuesday primarily designed to decommission nuclear reactors after 40 years of operation and to set up a new nuclear regulatory agency under the Environment Ministry.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120131005820.htm
____________________________________________________________
AJW

POINT OF VIEW/ Mariko Takahashi: Hatoyama's questionable Nature article

Writing in the Dec. 15 issue of Nature magazine, former Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and Lower House member Tomoyuki Taira, both from the ruling Democratic Party of Japan, called for the disaster-stricken Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant to be nationalized.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/analysis/AJ201202010024

Fukushima village to reopen, but will residents return?

The roads in the village of Kawauchi are largely deserted, with the rare movement usually being an individual braving the winter cold to decontaminate radiation from the surfaces of empty buildings.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201202010049

Robot pair to explore inside Fukushima nuke plant

A pair of robots will be sent into the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant as early as mid-February to measure radioactive materials and survey 3-D structures inside the buildings.

When one of these Quince robots stops moving, its partner can come to the rescue. (The Asahi Shimbun)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202010001

Nuclear safety advisers slam stress tests

Two advisers to Japan?s nuclear safety agency have slammed stress tests being conducted on idle nuclear reactors, saying they do not guarantee the safety of the facilities and calling into question the impartiality of the U.N. nuclear agency, which approved Japan?s handling of the tests on Jan. 31.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202010057

Restarting nuclear reactors faces opposition from local residents

The central government is smoothing the way for restarting nuclear power reactors, but gaining the go-ahead from local officials and residents is anything but guaranteed.

Members of an International Atomic Energy Agency delegation visit the Oi nuclear power plant in Fukui Prefecture on Jan. 26. (The Asahi Shimbun)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202010040

METI to financially support wind power industry

The industry ministry will offer subsidies, tax breaks and other financial incentives to expand power grids for wind power generation amid potential electricity shortages in Japan following the nuclear crisis in Fukushima Prefecture.

Wind turbines, capable of generating 2 megawatts each, operate in the Aoyamakogen highland at Wind Park Kasatori in Tsu, Mie Prefecture, on June 29, 2011. (Kentaro Yamayoshi)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/economy/environment/AJ201202010038
_______________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Editorial: Nuclear regulatory reform must weed out entrenched interests

Bills relating to a shift in the nation's nuclear power policy were approved by the Cabinet on Jan. 31. In addition to the establishment of a new nuclear regulatory agency under the Environment Ministry, the government is aiming to legislate the lifespan of nuclear reactors, and require plant operators to outline specific measures against severe nuclear accidents.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/perspectives/editorial/news/20120201p2a00m0na004000c.html

4 utilities log net loss for April-Dec. period on higher fuel costs

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Four of six Japanese power utilities which released earnings results on Tuesday fell into the red for the April-December period, due to higher fuel costs for thermal power generation as many of Japan's nuclear reactors have been idled.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/01/20120201p2g00m0bu130000c.html

Report: U.N. team did not visit Iran's nuclear sites

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/02/01/20120201p2g00m0in094000c.html

Gov't eases rules on establishment of solar power plants

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Japanese government eased rules Tuesday on the establishment of solar power generation plants amid increasing demand for renewable energy since the Fukushima nuclear crisis.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/01/20120201p2g00m0dm105000c.html

TEPCO sees no change in 17% electricity rate hike plan for companies

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. President Toshio Nishizawa said Tuesday he has no intention to change planned electricity rate hikes for corporate users so far but added the utility will make efforts to help customers reduce their financial burden such as by proposing different ways of power usage.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/01/20120201p2g00m0dm110000c.html

1,704 people seek shutdown of Genkai nuclear plant in largest group suit

SAGA, Japan (Kyodo) -- A total of 1,704 people from across Japan, the largest number of plaintiffs in a pending nuclear-related suit, sued the government and the operator of the Genkai nuclear power plant in Saga Prefecture on Tuesday, demanding that all four reactors at the plant be halted.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/01/20120201p2g00m0dm111000c.html

IAEA says Fukushima office still under consideration, no decision yet

VIENNA (Kyodo) -- The International Atomic Energy Agency said it is "giving careful consideration" to Japan's request to open an office in Fukushima Prefecture but that it has not decided on any details, dismissing reports which it says have misquoted its chief Yukiya Amano.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/01/20120201p2g00m0dm112000c.html

Kawauchi village in Fukushima calls on evacuees to return home

FUKUSHIMA, Japan (Kyodo) -- The mayor of Kawauchi, a village in Fukushima Prefecture whose residents were forced to relocate following the nearby nuclear power plant crisis, called on some 2,600 evacuated villagers Tuesday to return home permanently.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/01/20120201p2g00m0dm113000c.html

Radioactive water leaking from inside Fukushima No. 4 reactor

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Wednesday that it has found radioactive water leaking from a broken pipe connected to the No. 4 reactor of the crisis-hit Fukushima Daiichi power plant, but added that the liquid has not flowed outside the reactor building.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/01/20120201p2g00m0dm150000c.html

Residents wary of call to return to village near crippled Fukushima plant

The village government of Kawauchi, near the crippled Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant, has begun calling for its residents to return, but many are staying away, wary of radiation.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/01/20120201p2a00m0na014000c.html
_______________________________________________
Jiji press

TEPCO, Clients to Jointly Study Power-Saving Measures

Tokyo, Feb. 1 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Wednesday it will team up with business users to study measures to cut peak electricity demand efficiently this summer.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012020100877

Hamaoka N-Plant Costs Higher than Thermal: Panel

Shizuoka, Feb. 1 (Jiji Press)--Power generation at Chubu Electric Power Co.'s <9502> Hamaoka nuclear plant costs more than that at its thermal power plants, a third-party panel of experts has estimated.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020100430

480,000 Terabecquerels Emitted from Fukushima N-Plant

Tokyo, Feb. 1 (Jiji Press)--A total of 480,000 terabecquerels of radiation was emitted from crippled reactors at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power station just after its March 2011 accident, a new estimate showed Wednesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020101033

Radioactive Cesium Detected in Fukushima Trees

Tokyo, Feb. 1 (Jiji Press)--Radioactive cesium was detected in trunks of trees in three municipalities of Fukushima Prefecture, northeastern Japan, a university professor said Wednesday.
Among the trees, a cedar in Minamisoma showed the highest reading of 2,300 becquerels per kilogram, said Takahisa Hayashi, a tree genetic engineering professor at Tokyo University of Agriculture.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020101046
__________________________________________________________
Sankei news

decontamination in Kawauchi school, Fukushima

Kawauchi school 37.343737,140.803052

Iwaki container train(Ena Railway) restarts
Ena Railway http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ena_Railway

___________________________________________________________
JMA

04:35 JST 01 Feb 2012 37.2N 141.7E 30 km M4.2 Fukushima-ken Oki

http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20120201044016391-010435.html

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

18:22
http://youtu.be/GyZRHekr6cg

[Reference]Situation of Water Leakage at First Floor in Reactor Building at Unit 4 of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120202_05-e.pdf
_____________________________________________________
NHK world

IAEA inspectors to return to Iran in February

Thursday, February 02, 2012 11:00 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120202_11.html

Nuclear safety agency proposes new safeguards

The government's nuclear agency has made a new proposal to bolster safety at nuclear power plants.

Thursday, February 02, 2012 12:03 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120202_12.html
_________________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Editorial: New agency must reshape nuclear safety administration

Reshaping the nation's nuclear safety administration is an urgent task. A new agency to be established this year should be a powerful, efficient organization.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/editorial/T120201005736.htm

Evacuated village to reopen from April

FUKUSHIMA--The mayor of a village near the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant declared Tuesday that local authorities would return in April, and urged residents who have evacuated due to the nuclear crisis to come back.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120201006980.htm

TEPCO to review rate hikes / Large-lot customers will see bills jump; adjustments to follow

Tokyo Electric Power Co. will reexamine its rate hikes for factories, office buildings and other large-lot clients on a case-by-case basis after carrying out its plan to raise the rates by 17 percent on average from April, according to comments Tuesday by company President Toshio Nishizawa.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120201006322.htm

Feasibility key for revamped N-safety scheme / New plan obliges operators to take further safety measures; govt could intervene if steps not taken

After bills aimed at strengthening nuclear safety regulations were submitted to the Diet on Tuesday, the primary focus has now become how the government plans to ensure nuclear safety under a new framework.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120201005883.htm

Govt sticks to 40-year limit for nuclear reactor operations

The proposed legal controls of nuclear power plants have many obscure elements in their basic reasoning and criteria.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120201006450.htm

Declaration 'just the beginning' / Mayor's plea for villagers to return to Kawauchi draws mixed reactions

FUKUSHIMA--"The declaration to return home is just the beginning," said Yuko Endo, mayor of Kawauchi, Fukushima Prefecture, in a speech at a press conference encouraging residents who had evacuated amid the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant crisis to return to the village.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120201006236.htm

Tohoku sees jump in No. of people leaving

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120201005786.htm
____________________________________________________________
AJW

Yakuza labor structure formed base of nuclear industry

In a rural area 15 kilometers southwest of the Oi nuclear plant in Fukui Prefecture, a business office displays the signboard of a construction company. But inside, a 67-year-old man wearing a black knit cap and wrapped up in a blanket while watching television indicates that the company is more of a temp staff agency for nuclear power plant work.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201202020055

Parents' dilemma: Is letting kids play in possible contaminated areas risky?

After Susumu Takagi retired, he rented about 3,000 square meters of farmland and converted it into a park called Tatsunokomura (Tatsunoko village) in Sakura, Chiba Prefecture, in 2006.

A sand pit and other playground equipment were set up at the indoor PEP Kids Koriyama in Koriyama, Fukushima Prefecture. (Satomi Sugihara)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202020007

Book compiles Christian pastors' anti-nuclear power views

A new book compiles the views toward the accident at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant of individuals affiliated with Christian churches in Japan, which have a decidedly anti-nuclear power bent.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202020010

TEPCO: Fukushima reactor leaks, radiation tiny
*REUTERS

More than 8 tons of radioactive water leaked from a reactor at Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant but none reached outside the reactor building, Tokyo Electric Power Co said on Feb. 2 as it strives to ensure damaged reactors are stable enough for work to start on dismantling them.

The No. 4 reactor of the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant (Asahi Shimbun file photo)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202020037

NISA compiles 30 requirements for nuclear plants

The Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency will require electric power companies to undertake 30 measures at their nuclear plants, including extensive work on piping and ventilation systems, according to an interim report.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202020061
____________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Fukushima farmers furious over lack of consideration in decontamination subsidies

FUKUSHIMA -- Municipalities and farmers in Fukushima Prefecture are furious at the national government for ignoring the state of local farmland in extending subsidies for decontamination of areas tainted with radioactive substances.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/features/archive/news/2012/02/20120202p2a00m0na011000c.html

Japan to support Saudi Arabia's renewable energy development: Edano

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japanese Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano said Wednesday Japan will increase its support for Saudi Arabia's development of renewable energy.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/02/20120202p2g00m0bu124000c.html

Nuclear crisis leads to 61% plunge in Hitachi's April-Dec. profit

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Hitachi Ltd. on Thursday booked a group net profit of 85.23 billion yen for the first nine months of financial 2011, down 61.3 percent from a year earlier, reflecting a drop in demand for nuclear power generation systems following the Fukushima crisis caused by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/02/20120202p2g00m0bu161000c.html

U.N. nuclear official: 'Good trip' to Iran

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/02/02/20120202p2g00m0in096000c.html

Dairy firms to disclose milk radiation test results at end of Feb.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Major dairy companies will inspect their milk products made in 17 prefectures in northeastern to central Japan for radioactive contamination and disclose their findings to the public at the end of February, the Japan Dairy Industry Association said Wednesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/02/20120202p2g00m0dm015000c.html

TEPCO cuts FY 2020 power demand projection by 7% on energy-saving

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. has lowered by 7.0 percent its power demand projection for fiscal 2020 from the level estimated before the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami triggered a nuclear disaster, reflecting widespread energy-saving efforts and increased competition with its rivals, internal company documents showed Wednesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/02/20120202p2g00m0dm022000c.html

City in Shizuoka Pref. to burn 10 tons of debris from Iwate in trial

SHIZUOKA (Kyodo) -- Shimada city in Shizuoka Prefecture, southwest of Tokyo, will accept about 10 tons of wood debris from Iwate Prefecture, resulting from the March earthquake and tsunami, and incinerate it on a trial basis, local officials said Wednesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/02/20120202p2g00m0dm023000c.html

Top court rejects damages suit over Monju official's suicide

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Supreme Court has rejected a damages suit filed by the family of an official who committed suicide in 1996 after being involved in a partial coverup of a coolant leakage at the Monju prototype fast-breeder reactor in Fukui Prefecture, judicial sources said Wednesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/02/20120202p2g00m0dm026000c.html

TEPCO says 8.5 tons of water leaked from Fukushima No. 4 reactor

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Wednesday that 8.5 tons of radioactive water leaked from the No. 4 reactor of the crisis-hit Fukushima Daiichi power plant because a pipe connected to the reactor dropped off, but added that the liquid has not flowed outside the reactor building.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/02/20120202p2g00m0dm028000c.html

Researchers produce device to create biofuel from contaminated lumber

A device that can decontaminate radioactive lumber and efficiently create bioethanol from it has been developed by researchers at Tokyo University of Agriculture.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/02/20120202p2a00m0na009000c.html
_________________________________________________________
Jiji press

3 Disaster-Hit Japan Farm Cooperatives to Receive Bailout Funds

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012020200988

Japan Power Consumption Hits This Winter's High

Tokyo, Feb. 2 (Jiji Press)--Power consumption in Japan logged its highest level so far this winter in most regions on Thursday, on increased heater use as blizzards hit many parts of the country.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020201117

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

07:29
http://youtu.be/GyZRHekr6cg

[Reference]Radiation dose reduction by collecting dust and small rubbles at the parking lot in front of Main Anti-Earthquake Building of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120203_01-e.pdf

[Reference]Leakage from water desalinations(RO)concentrated water tank
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120203_04-e.pdf

Press Release (Feb 03,2012)
Power Supply to the Kyushu Electric Power Company

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020301-e.html

Press Release (Feb 03,2012)
Application for Changing the Special Business Plan

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020305-e.html
___________________________________________________
NHK world

Safety checks to begin at Fukushima Daiichi plant

Japan's nuclear safety agency will begin inspecting the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant from Monday to see if it can safely remain in a state of cold shutdown.

Friday, February 03, 2012 18:02 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120203_30.html
_________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Govt to ask power utilities to cut costs / Proposal to limit electricity price hikes

The government plans to limit future rises in electricity charges by asking power companies to revise their labor cost calculation methods to use wage levels up to 20 percent lower than those currently used to assess costs, according to sources.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120202007019.htm
___________________________________________________
AJW

Japan wants in on nuclear accident compensation pact

Prompted by the accident at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, Japan has decided to join an international convention that will set a global uniform standard for compensating victims of such nuclear disasters, sources said.

The tsunami spawned by the Great East Japan Earthquake swamps the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant on March 11, 2011. (Provided by Tokyo Electric Power Co.)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202030021

City switches off TEPCO for its electricity needs

A satellite city of Tokyo will end its reliance on Tokyo Electric Power Co. to supply electricity to most of its large facilities from April 1.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202030056
________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

U.S. estimates tritium release at Illinois reactor

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/02/03/20120203p2g00m0in072000c.html

Japan asks IAEA nuclear crisis support network to add new category

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan has proposed that an international support network for cooperation in responding to nuclear emergencies add the category of bringing an accident under control, sources familiar with the matter said Thursday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/03/20120203p2g00m0dm010000c.html

Chernobyl experts hopeful on Fukushima

TOKYO (AP) -- Ukrainian nuclear experts say Japanese evacuated from around the stricken Fukushima nuclear plant should be able to return to their homes - unlike the Chernobyl site, which remains inside a wide no-go zone a quarter-century after the accident there.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/03/20120203p2g00m0dm021000c.html

Japan nuclear reactor operating rate hits record low in Jan.

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The operating rate of 54 commercial nuclear reactors in Japan fell to a record low of 10.3 percent in January from 15.2 percent in December as three reactors were shut down for regular checkups, the Japan Atomic Industrial Forum said Friday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/03/20120203p2g00m0dm145000c.html

Minamisoma Mayor to run in Tokyo Marathon to express gratitude for support

MINAMISOMA, Fukushima -- The mayor of this nuclear disaster-hit city, who rose to international fame after he posted a YouTube video criticizing the Japanese government's response to the disaster, will run in the Tokyo Marathon later this month to show his gratitude for support for the city from home and abroad.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/03/20120203p2a00m0na011000c.html

Frozen pipe halts thermal power generators in Oita

OITA -- Piping in a fuel-supply system at a thermal power station here was frozen early on Feb. 3 as the temperature fell below freezing, causing all three power generators at the plant to halt, the plant operator said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/03/20120203p2a00m0na012000c.html

Indictment of contractors exposes illicit work at nuke plants

FUKUOKA -- Three people and two firms were indicted Feb. 2 on charges of dispatching a worker to the Oi Nuclear Power Plant in Fukui Prefecture under a falsified contract in violation of the Employment Security Law.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/03/20120203p2a00m0na018000c.html
______________________________________________________
Jiji press

TEPCO to Get 690-B.-Yen Extra Aid

Tokyo, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> and its public-private bailout fund on Friday submitted a revised business plan for the company to receive additional 690-billion-yen aid from the government.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012020301099

Trouble Halts Key Thermal Power Plant of Kyushu Electric

Fukuoka, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--Kyushu Electric Power Co. <9508> said Friday that trouble at a related facility led to an emergency shutdown of a key thermal power plant in the southwestern Japan city of Oita in the morning.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020300429

Panel Proposes Deregulation to Promote Renewable Energy Use

Tokyo, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--A subcommittee of the Japanese government's key reform panel on Friday unveiled a 183-point energy-sector deregulation package featuring measures aimed at promoting electricity generation from solar, wind and other renewable energy sources.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020300489

Toxic Water Still Leaking at TEPCO No. 4 Reactor

Tokyo, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Friday radioactive water is still leaking at the No. 4 reactor of the crippled Fukushima No. 1 power plant.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020300557

Japan Govt to Inspect TEPCO's Crippled Fukushima N-Plant

Tokyo, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency will inspect whether Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> is taking appropriate measures to keep stable its Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant shattered by the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020300577

Japan Nuclear Fuel to Postpone Trial by One Month

Aomori, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--Japan Nuclear Fuel Ltd. said Friday it will postpone a trial run of its spent fuel reprocessing plant by one month to early March.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020300842

SPEEDI Data Offering Begins for More Japan Prefectures

Tokyo, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese science ministry said Friday that it has started to offer radiation data from the government's System for Prediction of Environmental Emergency Dose Information (SPEEDI) to five more prefectures.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020300895

Kyushu Electric Ends Winter Power Cut Campaign

Fukuoka, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--Kyushu Electric Power Co. <9508> on Friday ended its campaign calling for customers to reduce their power consumption by at least 5 pct from a year before to dodge winter power shortages.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020300953

Japan Panel Drafts Power Rate Proposals

Tokyo, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--An expert panel to the Japanese industry ministry mapped out draft proposals on setting power rates for households on Friday, suggesting that bills should reflect smaller shares of costs.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020301025

Highly Radioactive Water Leaks Again at Fukushima N-Plant

Tokyo, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--Highly radioactive water has leaked again from a liquid waste tank at the damaged Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power station, operator Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020301087

Rice Shipment Curbs Lifted in Part of Fukushima

Fukushima, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--The Fukushima prefectural government lifted rice shipment curbs in part of the northern Japan prefecture Friday after its emergency survey to check radiation levels, officials said.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020400011

Japan, Ukraine to Sign Nuclear Accident Response Pact

Moscow, Feb. 3 (Jiji Press)--Japan and Ukraine are expected to sign a bilateral agreement as early as April to cooperate in responding to nuclear plant accidents, an Ukrainian government official said Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020400163

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

09:27
http://youtu.be/GyZRHekr6cg

Press Release (Feb 04,2012)
Receipt of directive document regarding finding accumulated water at concentrated water storage tank of water desalinations (Reverse Osmosis Membrane)in Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020401-e.html

Press Release (Feb 04,2012)
Receipt of instruction documents regarding thoroughgoing and enhancement of fire countermeasure at Fukushima-daiichi and Fukushima-daini Nuclear Power Station

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020402-e.html
__________________________________________________________
NHK world

US univ. to monitor wildlife in Fukushima

A US research team will conduct a long-term study on the impact of radiation exposure on wild animals and plants around the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Saturday, February 04, 2012 09:35 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120204_05.html animals have been decreasing by depopulation in Fukushima and decline in agriculture

Iran rejects IAEA inspection of nuclear facility

Saturday, February 04, 2012 12:48 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120204_09.html
____________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Govt eyes relaxation of rules on construction of renewable energy plants

The government is considering relaxing regulations on building solar power plants and other renewable energy facilities to promote their use in the country, according to government sources.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120203006503.htm

Cold affects power supplies / Some regions close to blackouts as consumption rates soar

Electric power companies are facing serious supply problems because severe cold weather is causing increased consumption.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120203006271.htm
_________________________________________________________
AJW

Survey: 2.3% of farmers produce rice above cesium safety standard

About 2.3 percent of farmers in Fukushima Prefecture yielded rice with radioactive cesium levels exceeding the government’s new safety standard, according to prefectural government officials.

A farmer walks by a rice paddy in Nihonmatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, where high levels of cesium were confirmed in September. (Asahi Shimbun file photo)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201202040050

Fukushima students use teacher's picture book to learn about radiation

New Texas Rangers pitcher Yu Darvish has been compared to baseball legends and rock stars. But now he is being compared to cesium.

The picture book "Hoshasen ni Nanka, Makenai zo!" (We won't let radiation beat us!) (The Asahi Shimbun)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202040001

Experiment to dispose of nuclear waste hits another roadblock

An experiment to convert radioactive liquid waste into an easier-to-dispose-of glassy substance at a spent nuclear fuel reprocessing plant has been delayed because preliminary work has been marred by trouble.

A glass-melting furnace at the Rokkasho Reprocessing Plant in Aomori Prefecture is the site of an experiment to vitrify radioactive waste. (Provided by Japan Nuclear Fuel Ltd.)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202040032

Liability fund approves additional funding to TEPCO

A government fund will provide an additional 689.4 billion yen ($9.05 billion) in assistance to Tokyo Electric Power Co. to compensate those affected by the accident at the utility's Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202040047

Difficulties exist in restraining TEPCO's rate hike

The industry ministry has proposed new guidelines that will push electric power companies to cut personnel and advertising expenses before approval is given to increase rates. But there are limits to efforts on restraining such rate hikes because about 70 percent of the costs used in calculating electric rates are beyond the control of the electric power companies.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202040027

Reference radioactive materials finally arrive in Japan

Research institutions in Japan have started a joint program with the International Atomic Energy Agency to enhance the accuracy of radioactivity measurements to meet international standards, the University of Tsukuba said Feb. 3.

The International Atomic Energy Agency has sent these reference radioactive materials to Japan--grass on the right and soil on the left. (Akiko Okazaki)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202040016
_________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Editorial: Competition, stability, affordability must be watchwords in gov't electricity system reform

The electric power supply system should be reformed in a way that will help spur competition on the market and reduce electricity charges while ensuring a stable power supply.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/perspectives/editorial/news/20120204p2a00m0na004000c.html

TEPCO will try to lower 17% corporate rate hike in future

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. President Toshio Nishizawa said Friday the utility would try to lower a planned average 17 percent electricity rate increase for corporate users based on the outcome of a government review of the electricity pricing system.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2g00m0dm007000c.html

Panel proposes stricter rule for raising electricity charges

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- A government advisory panel tasked with reviewing Japan's electricity charge system proposed in a draft report Friday a reform that strictly regulates utilities' move to include advertising and personnel costs in their electricity prices.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2g00m0dm008000c.html

Test to vitrify radioactive liquid waste to be suspended at Rokkasho

AOMORI (Kyodo) -- Japan Nuclear Fuel Ltd. said Friday it will suspend preparations for a production test to vitrify high-level radioactive wastewater at a reprocessing plant for spent nuclear fuel in Rokkasho, Aomori Prefecture, following trouble at the fusion furnace.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2g00m0dm010000c.html

High levels of radioactive cesium detected in Yokohama

YOKOHAMA (Kyodo) -- High levels of radioactive cesium were found in an area that used to be used as a waterway near an elementary school in Yokohama's Seya Ward, Yokohama city officials said Friday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2g00m0dm011000c.html

Excessive radioactive cesium levels found at 38 Fukushima rice farms

FUKUSHIMA (Kyodo) -- The Fukushima prefectural government said Friday that 38 of the approximately 23,000 rice farms surveyed in the prefecture were found to have radioactive cesium levels in excess of the central government-set allowable limit of 500 becquerels per kilogram.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2g00m0dm012000c.html

More leaks found at crippled Japan nuclear plant

TOKYO (AP) -- Leaks of radioactive water have become more frequent at Japan's crippled nuclear power plant less than two months after it was declared basically stable.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2g00m0dm015000c.html

Tokyo gov't unveils transport of incinerated radioactive sludge from sewage plant

Tokyo on Feb. 2 invited reporters to see how ash from incinerated sludge -- including some contaminated with radioactive substances -- is shipped from a sewage plant to be buried at a disposal site outside a breakwater in Tokyo Bay.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2a00m0na006000c.html

Malfunction at spent nuclear fuel pool at Monju reactor

TSURUGA, Fukui -- A pump at a spent nuclear fuel pool at the Monju experimental fast-breeder nuclear reactor here went offline for 22 minutes on Feb. 1, the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) announced on Feb. 3.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2a00m0na008000c.html

Plowing technique to fight spread of radiation demonstrated

IWAKI, Fukushima -- A plowing technique being considered to fight the spread of radiation was demonstrated here on Feb. 2, though some farmers on hand were disappointed.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2a00m0na010000c.html

Falsified labor deals rampant at Japan's nuke plants, says suspect

A power plant construction and maintenance firm has falsified worker contracts for temporary labor at nuclear plants across Japan for years, according to statements by one of the company's employees charged with involvement in the fraudulent agreements.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/04/20120204p2a00m0na016000c.html
__________________________________________________________
Jiji press

Honda to Install Solar Panels at Japanese Dealerships

Tokyo, Feb. 4 (Jiji Press)--Honda Motor Co. <7267> said Saturday it will install solar power panels at over 100 vehicle dealers in Japan by the end of March 2014 as part of an effort to fight climate change.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012020400207

Japan to Promote Micro Hydro Generators in Rural Areas

Tokyo, Feb. 4 (Jiji Press)--Japan's agriculture ministry will promote the spread of micro hydroelectric power generators in rural areas as part of moves to increase the use of renewable energy sources, officials said.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020400210

Governor OKs Fukushima Revitalization Bill Outline

Fukushima, Feb. 4 (Jiji Press)--Fukushima Governor Yuhei Sato on Saturday approved an outline of a planned bill on central government support for the revitalization of the prefecture hit hard by a severe nuclear accident.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020400239
__________________________________________________________
JMA

14:56 JST 04 Feb 2012 37.3N 141.8E 40 km M4.3 Fukushima-ken Oki

http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20120204150106391-041456.html

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

09:52

10:20
http://youtu.be/GyZRHekr6cg

Press Release (Feb 05,2012)
Status of TEPCO's Facilities and its services after the Tohoku-Chihou-Taiheiyou-Oki Earthquake (as of 10:00 am, February 5)
*excerpt

Unit 2 (Shut down)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020501-e.html

Press Release (Feb 05,2012)
Status of TEPCO's Facilities and its services after the Tohoku-Chihou-Taiheiyou-Oki Earthquake (as of 3:00 pm, February 5)
*excerpt

Unit 2 (Shut down)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020504-e.html

Press Release (Feb 05,2012)
Plant Status of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (as of 3:00 pm, February 5)
*excerpt

Unit 2 (Shut down)

Others

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020505-e.html
*The updates are underlined

**Unit 2
71.7 °C (04:00 pm on February 5) at Japanese news
___________________________________________________
NHK world

State mediator urges partial redress for evacuees

A state arbitration body has urged Tokyo Electric Power Company to make advance payments to people affected by the Fukushima nuclear accident before the final amount of compensation is decided.

Sunday, February 05, 2012 23:24 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120205_17.html
____________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Editorial: Health ministry should rethink radiation regulatory plan

A recently announced plan to more strictly regulate levels of radioactive materials in food fails to take reality into consideration.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/editorial/T120204003333.htm

573 deaths 'related to nuclear crisis'

A total of 573 deaths have been certified as "disaster-related" by 13 municipalities affected by the crisis at the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, according to a Yomiuri Shimbun survey.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120204003191.htm
___________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Residents launch thermal power project to revive spa resort in Fukushima

FUKUSHIMA -- Residents here have launched an ambitious initiative to build a thermal power facility that will use steam from a local hot spring resort in a bid to revive the area, affected by the nuclear crisis.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/05/20120205p2a00m0na005000c.html
____________________________________________________
Jiji press

Temperature at Fukushima Nuclear Reactor Rises

Tokyo, Feb. 5 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> increased the amount of cooling water pumped into a reactor at its crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant Sunday due to a rise in temperatures, the company said.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020500205

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

[Reference]Water leakage from the water desalination facility (Reverse osmosis Membrane) concentrated water tank on February 6
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120206_03-e.pdf

Press Release (Feb 06,2012)
Status of TEPCO's Facilities and its services after the Tohoku-Chihou-Taiheiyou-Oki Earthquake (as of 3:00 pm, February 6)
*excerpt

Unit 2 (Shut down)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020605-e.html
_______________________________________________________
NHK world

Govt to measure radiation levels in no-fly zone

Japan's government will measure radiation levels around the troubled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant as a step toward revising the no-fly zone over the site.

Monday, February 06, 2012 09:56 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120206_08.html

Govt to create more decontamination bases

The Environment Ministry plans to decontaminate more public facilities in Fukushima Prefecture to use them as bases for cleaning up radioactive substances.

Monday, February 06, 2012 11:48 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120206_11.html

Temperature rises at Fukushima No.2 reactor

The operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant says the temperature in the No.2 reactor remains high despite the injection of additional water.

Monday, February 06, 2012 13:12 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120206_17.html

Sapporo Snow Festival opens

The 63rd annual snow festival has opened in Sapporo in northern Japan. It is the first since the March 11th earthquake.

Monday, February 06, 2012 13:20 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120206_18.html

Nuke plant operators paid $2 bil. to localities

Newly disclosed documents show that nuclear power plant operators in Japan have paid more than 2 billion dollars to local authorities hosting their facilities over the past 4 decades.

Monday, February 06, 2012 19:22 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120206_27.html

S.Korea to resume talks on nuke plants with Turkey

Monday, February 06, 2012 19:47 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120206_28.html

Temperature at No.2 reactor remains high

Attempts to cool the temperature in the No. 2 reactor of the disabled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant have only partially succeeded despite the injection of more cooling water.

Monday, February 06, 2012 20:48 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120206_29.html
____________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

CHANGING WORLD 2012--Japan and East Asia / Focus of Russia's resource diplomacy may shift to Far East

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/world/T120127006450.htm
___________________________________________________
AJW

PHOTO/ Sapporo Snow Festival adopts Tohoku theme

SAPPORO--Tourists and locals bundled in mittens and scarves crowded the streets of central Sapporo on Feb. 6 as the 63rd Sapporo Snow Festival got under way.

<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/YJ_u163zqAQ?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
A snow sculpture of Tsurugajo castle in Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, attracts a crowd in Odori Park in Sapporo on Feb. 6. (Satoru Iizuka)

Snow statues line Odori Park in the central part of Sapporo on Feb. 6. (Yasuhiro Sugimoto)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/fun_spots/AJ201202060046

Minister wants radiation-related researchers in Fukushima

With the crisis at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant sending residents and companies fleeing from the prefecture, the state minister in charge of the accident wants to use the research opportunity it afforded to lure companies and jobs back.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ201202060001

Temperature rises sharply at Fukushima reactor

Tokyo Electric Power Co. reported a spike in temperature in the No. 2 reactor at the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant on Feb. 5, forcing it to increase the volume of cooling water there as a precautionary step.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202060050

METI ties to continue at new nuclear regulatory agency

The government’s “no-return” rule to ensure independence of a nuclear regulatory agency from pro-nuclear ministries and agencies will apply to only seven senior officials of the new 485-member watchdog, sources said.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202060053

Experts on nuclear panel got funds from power industry

Three university professors on a government task force to draw up new nuclear power policy guidelines received substantial cash donations from the nuclear power industry and related companies or organizations.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202060056

The Prometheus Trap / Order to Suspend Radiation Monitoring

According to Greek mythology, it was Prometheus who gave fire to humans.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202060076
____________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Edano key person in Japan's nuclear future, but keeps true intentions hidden

Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano recently revealed in a magazine interview that the prime minister for whom he holds the highest regard is Kantaro Suzuki. I found the mention of a taciturn, sage-like military chancellor by an eloquent lawyer-turned-minister striking.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/perspectives/news/20120206p2a00m0na002000c.html

Annual snow festival begins in Sapporo

SAPPORO (Kyodo) -- The annual Sapporo Snow Festival began Monday in the capital of Hokkaido, featuring some 230 snow sculptures, such as a 15-meter-tall Tsurugajo Castle of Fukushima Prefecture that was made to represent people's wishes for recovery from the March disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/arts/archive/news/2012/02/20120206p2g00m0et114000c.html

1.5-fold rise eyed for nuke plant operators' payments to damages fund

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government has decided on a plan to require that Japan's 12 nuclear power plant operators contribute a total of 150 billion yen annually from fiscal 2012 to a state-backed facility to help Tokyo Electric Power Co. meet huge compensation payments over the crisis at its Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, one and a half times the initially planned amount, sources familiar with the matter said Sunday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/06/20120206p2g00m0dm003000c.html

High radioactive cesium levels detected in worms 20 km from nuke plant

Radioactive cesium registering some 20,000 becquerels per kilogram has been found in worms 20 kilometers from the damaged Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/06/20120206p2a00m0na008000c.html

Kyushu men sent to Fukushima nuke plant under falsified labor deals

As efforts to tame the crisis at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant continue, laborers from as far as Kyushu have been dispatched there under illegal labor deals and forced to work inside at least one of the crippled plant's highly contaminated reactor buildings.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/06/20120206p2a00m0na013000c.html

Gov't probe into cover-up of nuclear fuel disposal costs finished without full questioning

A government probe into the 2004 concealment of estimates on the cost of disposing of spent nuclear fuel has come under scrutiny after two of the 25 people held to have been questioned over the cover-up disclosed they were actually punished without any questioning.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/06/20120206p2a00m0na016000c.html

Gov't cover-up of nuke fuel disposal cost sparks rage

Both concerned officials and opposition party members are fuming after revelations that the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) systematically covered up estimates showing direct disposal of spent nuclear fuel would be cheaper than the government's much-vaunted nuclear fuel cycle program.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/06/20120206p2a00m0na017000c.html
___________________________________________________________
Jiji press

TEPCO's Rate Hike to Hit Hard Electric Furnace Steelmakers

Tokyo, Feb. 6 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s <9501> planned electricity rate hike from April is likely to inflict serious damage on Japanese electric furnace steelmakers.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012020600793

Niigata Pref. Urges TEPCO to Conduct Further N-Crisis Probe

Niigata, Feb. 6 (Jiji Press)--Niigata Governor Hirohiko Izumida on Monday called on Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> to conduct further probes into the accident at its disaster-crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020600852

No Recriticality at Fukushima N-Reactor: TEPCO

Tokyo, Feb. 6 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Monday that it has found no signs that the damaged No. 2 reactor at its Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant had experienced recriticality, or the restart of self-sustaining nuclear fission chain reactions.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020600923

Number of Fukushima Children Falls Sharply after N-Crisis

Tokyo, Feb. 6 (Jiji Press)--The number of kindergarten kids and schoolchildren in Fukushima Prefecture, home to the disaster-crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, decreased by 17,308 from a year before as of May 1, 2011, an education ministry survey revealed Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020600956
________________________________________________________
Sankei news

contaminated grasses have been incinerating at Ichinoseki city, Iwate pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

18:51
http://youtu.be/GyZRHekr6cg

Press Release (Feb 07,2012)
Status of TEPCO's Facilities and its services after the Tohoku-Chihou-Taiheiyou-Oki Earthquake (as of 3:00 pm, February 7)
*excerpt

Unit 2 (Shut down)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020707-e.html

Press Release (Feb 07,2012)
Regarding start of reparation payouts for vehicles in the "no-go zone"

Appendix: http://www.tepco.co.jp/cc/press/betu12_j/images/120207b.pdf
Reference: http://www.tepco.co.jp/cc/press/betu12_j/images/120207c.pdf
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020706-e.html
_________________________________________________________
NHK world

Japanese consortium completes power plant in Java

Tuesday, February 07, 2012 12:10 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120207_18.html

Temperature remains high at damaged reactor

An unknown rise in temperature at one of the reactors at the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant is troubling its operator. Tokyo Electric says the temperature hasn't gone down even after it increased the volume of cooling water on Tuesday.

Tuesday, February 07, 2012 13:05 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120207_21.html

Vents introduced to pressurized water reactors

Japanese nuclear power plant operators say they will introduce a venting system to pressurized water reactors to enhance safety in case of emergencies.

Tuesday, February 07, 2012 18:54 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120207_30.html
__________________________________________________________
AJW

Students to run in month-long relay to Fukushima

To remember Fukushima, college students across Japan will join on a one-month relay across 30 prefectures that culminates in the capital of Fukushima Prefecture on the anniversary of the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ201202070004

Hula Girls set to return to home stage

IWAKI, Fukushima Prefecture--Grass skirts and ukuleles are set to make a triumphant return to Iwaki.
<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/p9XJ7Xej5hk?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ201202070010

Sumitomo helps Fukushima students learn English online

Elementary and junior high school students, unable to find native speaking teachers after the March 11 Great East Japan Earthquake, will be able to talk directly with their U.S. teachers over Internet video links using a service offered by the trading house Sumitomo Corp.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ201202070019

Ostrich roundup continues in nuclear evacuation zone

Residents from the evacuation zone around the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant have returned to their homes to find out-of-control weeds, lingering disaster damage and even signs of theft. But a few startled evacuees have also discovered ostriches on the loose on their properties.

An ostrich calmed down after its head was covered with a sack in Namie, Fukushima Prefecture. (Provided by Toshiaki Tomizawa)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202070001

ex: Ostrich on 8 Dec 2011

Fukushima sees big drop in number of elementary students

Even amid the low birthrate and declining school enrollment nationwide, Fukushima Prefecture stood out in the drop in the number of elementary students last year, apparently triggered by the evacuation from the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202070045

Tokyo group gathers enough signatures for nuke referendum

A citizens group seeking a local referendum on the use of nuclear power in Tokyo said it has collected enough signatures to file a petition calling for an ordinance to hold the vote.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202070043

TEPCO struggles to cool Fukushima plant's No. 2 reactor

Tokyo Electric Power Co. is taking steps to prevent a possible self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction at the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202070027
______________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Study into wild animals in Fukushima, vicinity to be launched

FUKUSHIMA, Japan (Kyodo) -- The Environment Ministry said Tuesday it will research reports of increased damage caused by wild animals in nuclear crisis-hit Fukushima and three surrounding prefectures this month and consider countermeasures.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/07/20120207p2g00m0dm013000c.html

Japan, U.S. eyeing new panel for nuclear cooperation

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Japan and the United States are considering establishing a bilateral standing council of high-ranking government officials to promote cooperation in the field of nuclear energy, officials of both governments said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/07/20120207p2g00m0dm015000c.html

Akita Pref. to accept debris from disaster-hit Iwate

MORIOKA, Japan (Kyodo) -- Akita Prefecture agreed Tuesday to accept rubble generated in adjacent Iwate Prefecture in the wake of the March earthquake and tsunami.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/07/20120207p2g00m0dm021000c.html

Temperature in part of Fukushima No. 2 reactor rises to 70 C

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The temperature in a section of the bottom of the No. 2 reactor pressure vessel at the crisis-hit Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant has risen to around 70 C, up from around 50 C recorded last Wednesday, the plant operator's Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/07/20120207p2g00m0dm026000c.html

Gov't to set up radiation yardstick for shipping Fukushima stones

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Japanese government plans to set up a radiation yardstick for shipping stones given the detection of a relatively high level of radiation in gravel, used as building materials, from near the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, industry minister Yukio Edano said Tuesday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/07/20120207p2g00m0dm102000c.html

Utilities to adopt vent system for pressurized water reactors

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Kansai Electric Power Co. and other utilities are planning to install a filter-equipped vent system for their pressurized light-water reactors to release vapor from them so as to prevent damage to reactor containment vessels in the event of an accident, sources familiar with the matter said Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/07/20120207p2g00m0dm104000c.html

TEPCO increases water injection in reactor showing temperature rise

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Workers at the crippled Fukushima Daiichi power plant on Tuesday raised the amount of water injected into the No. 2 reactor to the highest level since the plant achieved a stable state of cold shutdown in December, as concerns grew over the rising temperature recently detected at the bottom of the reactor's pressure vessel.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/07/20120207p2g00m0dm147000c.html

Pro-nuclear energy town councillor's firm had 700 million yen in nuke plant contracts

TAKAHAMA, Fukui -- A town assembly member here calling for the continuation of nuclear power is also president of a company that has received at least 700 million yen in nuclear-related construction contracts, it has been learned.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/07/20120207p2a00m0na023000c.html

_________________________________________________________
Jiji press

New Fuji Electric Device Can Detect Food Radiation in 12 Seconds

Fukushima, Feb. 7 (Jiji Press)--Fuji Electric Co. <6504> on Tuesday unveiled a new device that can measure levels of radioactive substances in food in only 12 seconds.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012020701022

Japan to Set Radiation Limit for Crushed Stone

Tokyo, Feb. 7 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government plans to set a radiation limit for crushed stone shipments in March, Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yukio Edano said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020700569

No Timeframe Set for Restarting N-Reactors: Minister

Tokyo, Feb. 7 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government is not considering setting a timeframe for restarting nuclear power reactors that have been halted for routine checkups, industry minister Yukio Edano said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020700595

TEPCO to Pay Used Vehicle Prices in Damage for Discarded Vehicles

Tokyo, Feb. 7 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Tuesday it will pay used-vehicle market prices for vehicles discarded due to the nuclear accident at its Fukushima No. 1 power complex.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020700768

Reactor Temperature Falling at Fukushima N-Plant: TEPCO

Tokyo, Feb. 7 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Tuesday that the temperature at the damaged No. 2 reactor at its Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant has started falling thanks to stepped-up cooling operations.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020700926

Panel Proposes Review of Designated Hospitals for N-Accident Victims

Tokyo, Feb. 7 (Jiji Press)--A subcommittee of the Japanese government's Nuclear Safety Commission on Tuesday proposed reviewing the current designation of hospitals and other medical institutions that treat radiation exposure resulting from nuclear accidents in order to improve their effectiveness.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020700988
______________________________________________________
Sankei news

Tohoku Electric Power Co.,Inc held snow disaster drill in Mt. Hakkoda, Aomori city

_________________________________________________________
JMA

07:39 JST 07 Feb 2012 37.6N 141.9E 30 km M4.2 Fukushima-ken Oki

http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20120207074309391-070739.html

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

Press Release (Feb 08,2012)
Situation of storing and treatment of accumulated water including highly concentrated radioactive materials at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station(33rd Release)

<Attachment>
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120208e2.pdf
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020803-e.html

Press Release (Feb 08,2012)
Report to NISA on the investigation result of the outdoor storage tank regarding the event of water or radioactive material leakage from concentrated water storage tank of water desalinations in Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020807-e.html

Press Release (Feb 08,2012)
Status of TEPCO's Facilities and its services after the Tohoku-Chihou-Taiheiyou-Oki Earthquake (as of 3:00 pm, February 8)
*excerpt

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020806-e.html

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120208_08-e.pdf
_______________________________________________________
NHK world

Cesium detected in worms near Fukushima plant

Researchers say high levels of radioactive cesium have been detected in earthworms caught in areas around the damaged Fukushima Daiichi plant.

Wednesday, February 08, 2012 01:19 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120208_04.html

Child population drops in disaster-hit prefectures

The number of children has significantly decreased in 3 Japanese prefectures hit by the March 11th disaster.

Wednesday, February 08, 2012 01:34 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120208_05.html

Japan to lower tourism target

Wednesday, February 08, 2012 11:27 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120208_14.html

Temperature decreasing inside Fukushima reactor

Tokyo Electric Power Company says it has been able to lower the temperature inside the No.2 reactor at the troubled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant by increasing the amount of water being injected into it.

Wednesday, February 08, 2012 15:31 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120208_26.html

70% of nuclear reactor hosts cautious on restart

An NHK survey has found that more than 70 percent of Japanese municipalities that host nuclear power plants are cautious about restarting the reactors.

Wednesday, February 08, 2012 17:10 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120208_28.html
______________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

N-safety unit to be housed with METI

The Environment Ministry is likely to start operations of a new external nuclear regulatory agency to be launched in April at an annex of the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry that oversees the current nuclear safety body, sources said.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120207005565.htm

TEPCO injects more water into reactor

Tokyo Electric Power Co. has increased the amount of water being injected into the No. 2 reactor at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant because the temperature at the base of the pressure vessel has been rising, the company said Tuesday.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120207005567.htm

Air radiation drops after snowfall / But decontamination necessary, levels will rise once snow melts, experts say

The Fukushima prefectural government has received many inquiries because air radiation levels across the prefecture following the crisis at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant declined considerably late January and have since remained constant, perhaps due to fallen snow blocking radiation above the ground.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120207005622.htm
_________________________________________________________
AJW

Temperature in Fukushima plant’s No. 2 reactor remains high

Temperature levels in the No. 2 reactor of the disabled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant remain high despite efforts by Tokyo Electric Power Co. to stabilize the situation.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202080042

Scientist: Cesium sank 20 cm in Tokyo Bay mud

Radioactive cesium likely from the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant has sunk more than 20 centimeters deep in the mud of the seabed in Tokyo Bay, according to a scientist.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202080058
________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Japan aims to boost foreign visitors yearly to 18 mil. by 2016

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/travel/archive/news/2012/20120208p2g00m0dm057000c.html

Fukushima spa resort fully reopens after March disaster

IWAKI (Kyodo) -- A Hawaiian-style spa leisure complex in Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture, known for its team of hula dancers, fully reopened Wednesday 11 months after the March disaster damaged the facility.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/travel/archive/news/2012/20120208p2g00m0dm058000c.html

todays Hula Girls' stage from internet live

i was moved to tears

Power firms to install vent facilities in all domestic nuclear plants

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Federation of Electric Power Companies of Japan said Tuesday it will install vent facilities in all nuclear power plants in Japan to enhance the safety of them by releasing vapor from reactor containment vessels when pressure inside rises in the event of an accident.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/08/20120208p2g00m0bu116000c.html

311 citizens to launch natural energy network in E. Asia

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- A group of 311 citizens backed mainly by environmental groups in Japan and South Korea will launch a network next month to promote natural energy in East Asia on the first anniversary of the March 11 catastrophe in northeastern Japan, organizers said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/08/20120208p2g00m0dm001000c.html

4 biomass power plants to burn debris from quake-hit areas

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Forestry Agency decided Tuesday to provide financial support for the construction of four biomass power plants to burn wood debris resulting from the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami to accelerate its disposal and promote renewable energy, agency officials said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/08/20120208p2g00m0dm018000c.html

Fukushima No. 2 reactor cools slightly after increased water injection

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Tuesday that the temperature of the No. 2 reactor at its crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant has dropped slightly from a high of 73.3 C the previous day after it increased the amount of water injected into the reactor.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/08/20120208p2g00m0dm023000c.html

Nobel Prize winner Oe stresses Japan's ethical responsibility for ending nuclear program

Kenzabu Oe, Nobel Prize laureate in literature, said Feb. 8 that Japan has an "ethical responsibility" for abandoning nuclear power in the aftermath of the Fukushima nuclear disaster, just as the country renounced war under the postwar Constitution.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/08/20120208p2a00m0na011000c.html
_________________________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan Targets 18 M. Foreign Tourists Annually by 2016

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020800532

"Hula Girls" Spa Resort Fully Reopens

Iwaki, Fukushima Pref., Feb. 8 (Jiji Press)--Spa Resort Hawaiians, the tourist facility featured in Japanese movie "Hula Girls," resumed full operations on Wednesday after being hit by last year's disaster.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020800639

Japan Agency Ends Stress Test Debates on 2 N-Reactors

Tokyo, Feb. 8 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency on Wednesday effectively wrapped up debates on evaluating the outcome of stress tests on two nuclear power reactors in central Japan.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020801062

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

Asahi Newspaper's "Trap of Prometheus" Article

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/news/topics/12020901-e.html

Press Release (Feb 09,2012)
Status of the Inspection and Restoration Works Performed after the Niigata-Chuetsu-Oki Earthquake (as of February 9)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020901-e.html

Press Release (Feb 09,2012)
Plant Status of Fukushima Daini Nuclear Power Station (February 9, 2012)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020902-e.html

Press Release (Feb 09,2012)
Upgrade of gas turbine facilities to combined cycle system owned by Kashima Thermal Power Station - Securing further electricity supply and reducing environmental impact -

Attachment:http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120209e3.pdf
Reference: http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120209e4.pdf
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020903-e.html

Press Release (Feb 09,2012)
Plant Status of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (as of 3:00 pm, February 9)
*excerpt

Unit 2 (Shut down)

Unit 6 (Outage due to regular inspection)

Others

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12020907-e.html
_____________________________________________________
NHK world

TEPCO investigates Fukushima plant fuel pool

The operator of the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant has started taking a closer look at spent fuel inside a storage pool at one of its 4 reactor buildings, in preparation for the eventual removal of the fuel.

Thursday, February 09, 2012 17:57 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120209_32.html
_________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Foreigner exodus spurs Chiba population decline

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120208003386.htm

Govt asks Fukushima to restrict rice planting

FUKUSHIMA--The government has asked local municipalities in Fukushima Prefecture to refrain from planting rice this year in districts where radioactive cesium exceeding the government's new limit was found in last year's harvests, according to government sources.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120208005350.htm

Temperature inside reactor stops rising

The abnormal rise in temperature in a reactor at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant has stopped, apparently because more water has been injected into the crippled reactor, according to Tokyo Electric Power Co.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120208005861.htm

Tsunami was up to 21 meters in Fukushima

The tsunami that hit Fukushima Prefecture on March 11 was particularly high--possibly up to 21 meters--along the coast in the center of the prefecture where the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant is located, a survey has found.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120208006430.htm

Hula girls back on main stage

Hula dancers perform at Spa Resort Hawaiians, a spa and leisure complex in Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture, that was damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake last year, after it fully reopened Wednesday morning.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/20120209dy01.htm
_______________________________________________________
AJW

MARATHON / Mayor to run Tokyo Marathon to honor March 11 victims

Katsunobu Sakurai has run for mayor in the past, and he won that race. Now, he will run to honor victims of the March 11 disaster.

Katsunobu Sakurai, mayor of Minami-Soma, watches the morning sun during a training run. (The Asahi Shimbun)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/recovery/AJ201202090033

Hula Girls back on stage as Spa Resort Hawaiians reopens

IWAKI, Fukushima Prefecture--The breezy, balmy sounds of Hawaii and the beautiful Hula Girls have finally come home to Spa Resort Hawaiians, a major hot spring resort here, to the delight of packed audiences.

The Hula Girls at Spa Resort Hawaiians in Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture, perform on their home stage on Feb. 8. (Jun Kaneko)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201202090001

Media gets 1st look into Fukushima No. 2 nuke plant

NARAHA, Fukushima Prefecture--Reporters were allowed inside the Fukushima No. 2 nuclear power plant on Feb. 8 for the first time since it was damaged by the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami last March.

Sandbags are piled up to the height of four meters near the No. 1 reactor of the Fukushima No. 2 nuclear power plant, seen in the left. (Noriyoshi Ohtsuki)

Officials from local governments inspect the bottom portion of the containment vessel at the No. 4 reactor of the Fukushima No. 2 nuclear power plant on Feb. 8. Equipment for control rods and measurement tools for neutrons are hanging overhead. (Pool photo)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202090022

Government: New TEPCO chairman will be outsider

Tsunehisa Katsumata, chairman of Tokyo Electric Power Co., will resign this summer and his successor will be chosen from outside TEPCO, sources said.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202090025

Harrowing visions of Fukushima's plight to be shown in Berlin

The impact of the Fukushima nuclear disaster will feature in the Forum section of the Berlin Film Festival opening Feb. 9 with premieres of three documentaries by Japanese filmmakers.

A scene from "Nuclear Nation" in which a resident of Futaba, Fukushima Prefecture, prays for the soul of his wife during a brief return to the evacuated town in late summer. (Provided by Documentary Japan)

A still from "Nuclear Nation" show residents of Futaba standing in the ruins of their home about four months after their evacuation. (Provided by Documentary Japan)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202090039

Tsunami exceeded 21 meters near Fukushima plant, say researchers

The tsunami unleashed by the Great East Japan Earthquake exceeded 21 meters at one point on the coast between the stricken Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant and the Fukushima No. 2 plant, according to a survey of physical evidence left by the deluge.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202090049

Moves under way to restart Oi nuke plants before summer

The central government has begun coordinating efforts to restart two nuclear reactors in Fukui Prefecture due to fears of power shortages in the Kansai region, part of the nation's industrial heartland, this summer.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202090066
___________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Toshiba wins order to supply equipment for U.S. power plant

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/09/20120209p2g00m0bu119000c.html

Swiss nuclear reactor safely shut down

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/02/09/20120209p2g00m0in108000c.html

Nuclear safety agency calls for dispersal of power sources at plants

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency on Wednesday drafted a package of 30 measures to prevent nuclear accidents similar in scale to the Fukushima crisis, including the dispersal of power sources used in cooling reactors.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/09/20120209p2g00m0dm012000c.html

Nuclear agency to finalize report endorsing Oi reactors stress tests

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government's nuclear safety agency decided Wednesday to soon finalize a draft report endorsing the results of stress tests on two idled reactors at Kansai Electric Power Co.'s Oi power plant in western Japan.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/09/20120209p2g00m0dm019000c.html

2 municipalities to conclude mutual aid pact in event of disaster

KANAZAWA (Kyodo) -- The city of Omaezaki, Shizuoka Prefecture, and the town of Shika, Ishikawa Prefecture, both of which host nuclear power plants, will conclude an agreement to help each other in the event of a disaster, they said Thursday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/09/20120209p2g00m0dm076000c.html

Prefectural team makes 1st inspection of Fukushima No. 2 nuke plant

A team of Fukushima prefectural officials visited the Fukushima No. 2 nuclear plant on Feb. 8, marking the first prefectural inspection of the plant since the March 11, 2011 disasters forced it to shut down.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/09/20120209p2a00m0na009000c.html

Radioactive waste disposal site unveiled to reporters

A temporary storage site for radioactive waste generated under a model decontamination project around the disaster-struck Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant was unveiled to reporters on Feb. 9.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/09/20120209p2a00m0na013000c.html

Oi reactor restarts still in limbo after passing stress test

When two reactors at the Oi nuclear plant in Fukui Prefecture can be reactivated remains unclear even after they passed government-mandated stress tests, industry sources have said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/09/20120209p2a00m0na015000c.html
_____________________________________________________
Jiji press

TEPCO Seeks Nod from Energy Agency Head for Rate Hike

Tokyo, Feb. 9 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> President Toshio Nishizawa on Thursday sought the understanding of the head of the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy for its plan to raise electricity charges for large-lot business users.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020900799

TEPCO Eyes Big Compensation for Homes in Heavily Polluted Areas

Tokyo, Feb. 9 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> intends to offer sizable compensation packages to owners of homes in areas heavily contaminated by radioactive material following the accident at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, a TEPCO executive said Thursday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020900970

Experts Find Little Quake Impact on TEPCO Fukushima No. 2 Plant

Iwaki, Fukushima Pref., Feb. 9 (Jiji Press)--Seismic engineering and other experts found Thursday that the March 11 earthquake last year caused no major damage to core facilities at Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s <9501> Fukushima No. 2 nuclear power plant.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012020900998

Checkups to Start March 26 for TEPCO's Only Active Reactor

Tokyo, Feb. 9 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Thursday that the No. 6 reactor at its Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant, the only remaining active reactor for the firm, will undergo regular checkups from March 26.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021000047
____________________________________________________________
JMA

16:09 JST 09 Feb 2012 37.1N 141.5E 50 km M4.2 Fukushima-ken Oki

http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20120209161453391-091609.html

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

1st inspection of Fukushima No. 2 nuke plant

panorama photo

seawater heat exchanger building
http://photo.sankei.jp.msn.com/panorama/data/2012/0208fukushima/

Base of the reactor pressure vessel

Emergency diesel power source

Spent fuel pool

Main steam isolation valve in Unit4

Motor of Reactor recirculation pump

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

News reports on "The way of TEPCOS's business" and "Comprehensive Special Business Plan" by morning newspapers dated February 10, 2012

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/news/topics/12021001-e.html

Press Release (Feb 10,2012)
Reporting to NISA regarding the action for water leakage from near the emergency reactor injection pump on the hill etc of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12021002-e.html

Investigation into the transparency of the spent fuel pool of Unit 4
<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Ob2MFDPgwEo?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

A picture taken inside the spent fuel pool of Unit4
<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4diOfU7cH5k?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/fukushima-np/images/handouts_120210_03-e.pdf
http://tepco.webcdn.stream.ne.jp/www11/tepco/download/120210_01j.zip
http://tepco.webcdn.stream.ne.jp/www11/tepco/download/120210_02j.zip
____________________________________________________________
NHK wolrd

Reconstruction Agency inaugurated

Friday, February 10, 2012 13:20 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120210_19.html

US approves 1st reactor project in 34 years

Friday, February 10, 2012 18:03 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120210_27.html

TEPCO says no damage to spent fuel at Fukushima

The operator of the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant says it has found no damage to spent fuel rods that will be the first to be removed from the plant's reactors.

Friday, February 10, 2012 20:37 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120210_33.html

Worker checks urged to prevent nuclear terrorism

Japan's Atomic Energy Commission has for the first time laid out its measures to prevent possible terrorist attacks on nuclear power plants.

Friday, February 10, 2012 20:51 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120210_34.html
__________________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Fukushima No. 2 plant was 'near meltdown'

FUKUSHIMA--The Fukushima No. 2 nuclear power plant was "near meltdown" after being hit by tsunami following the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, according to the head of the plant.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120209007089.htm

Approval near for Oi reactors / Agency says stress test evaluations at N-plant were adequate

A government nuclear safety agency has submitted a final draft of an evaluation report that approves the stress test results of the Nos. 3 and 4 reactors at the Oi nuclear power plant in Oi, Fukui Prefecture, to a meeting attended by experts.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120209006930.htm
____________________________________________________________
AJW

Writer Oe leads call to keep reactors shut down

Author Kenzaburo Oe called Feb. 8 on heads of local governments hosting nuclear power plants not to give the go-ahead for the restart of reactors currently shut down for maintenance and other safety checks.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/social_affairs/AJ201202100001

Grass blamed for holes in Fukushima water hoses

Weeds were the culprit that poked holes in vinyl chloride hoses for transporting radioactive water under treatment at the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Feb. 9.

Cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica) penetrates a radioactive water hose at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant in 2011. (Provided by Tokyo Electric Power Co.)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202100007

Radiation measuring stations provide peace of mind, at a price

With more and more people worried about possible radioactive contamination in the food they eat, some enterprising businesses are profiting from providing a little peace of mind.

A woman checks radiation in food at Bekimiru, an inspection station in Kashiwa, Chiba Prefecture. (The Asahi Shimbun)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202100066

Hurdles remain before nuke referendum could be called

Although a citizens group said it has met the legal requirement calling for a referendum on the use of nuclear power in Tokyo, the Tokyo metropolitan electoral management committee said it won't be able to confirm until late April if there are enough valid signatures.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202100068
__________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Editorial: New Restoration Agency should prioritize strengthening local bureau functions

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/perspectives/editorial/news/20120210p2a00m0na003000c.html

News Navigator: How is radioactively tainted farm soil decontaminated?

Contamination of farmland with radioactive materials from the crippled Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant has become a major problem. The Mainichi answers common questions readers may have about methods to decontaminate farm soil.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/perspectives/newsnavigator/

Sarkozy refuses to shutter aging nuclear plant

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2g00m0in096000c.html

U.S. approves first new nuclear plant in 3 decades

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2g00m0in098000c.html

Gov't wants TEPCO to 'turn over new leaf' in return for more aid

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Industry minister Yukio Edano said Friday that the government will not accept Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s request for additional financial aid unless the company clearly shows its determination to "turn over a new leaf" following the devastating accident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2g00m0dm021000c.html

Gov't launches postquake reconstruction agency

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2g00m0dm022000c.html

Enough voters sign petition seeking Tokyo nuclear power referendum

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- A civic group seeking a referendum on whether to keep nuclear power plants said Thursday it has collected enough signatures to ask the Tokyo metropolitan government to hold a plebiscite on the issue.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2g00m0dm023000c.html

Operations at all TEPCO nuclear reactors to be halted in March

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Thursday it will suspend operations of the No. 6 reactor at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant in Niigata Prefecture on March 26 for a periodic check, a plan that will take all of its 17 reactors out of service.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2g00m0dm024000c.html

Local leaders call for reform in electricity policy

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Local government leaders in the Tokyo metropolitan area jointly urged the central government Friday to enable private companies to enter the electric power market more easily to promote competition and allow consumers to choose utilities.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2g00m0dm162000c.html

TEPCO has paid 229.2 billion yen in damages for nuclear crisis

Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO), operator of the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant, has paid approximately 229.2 billion yen in damages to victims so far, a company executive said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2a00m0na007000c.html

Municipalities dissatisfied with gov't's rice-planting restriction: survey

FUKUSHIMA -- Of the 12 local municipalities where rice harvested in 2011 was found to have cesium levels that would prohibit them from planting rice this spring, 11 are critical of the government's stand, a Mainichi survey has found.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2a00m0na011000c.html

150,000 people in proposed 5-kilometer nuke plant evacuation zones

The total population living within the proposed 5-kilometer radius emergency evacuation zones around the nation's nuclear plants stands at some 150,000, according to projections by Saitama University associate professor Kenji Tani.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/10/20120210p2a00m0na012000c.html
____________________________________________________
Jiji press

Mitsubishi to Join Undersea Power Cable Project in Germany

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012021000717

Japan N-Reactor Makers Shifting Focus to Overseas

Tokyo, Feb. 10 (Jiji Press)--Japanese nuclear reactor manufacturers are shifting their sights to overseas markets at a time when they see little prospect of constructing such facilities at home following the nation's worst nuclear accident at Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s <9501> disaster-stricken Fukushima No. 1 power plant.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012021000807

Japan Govt Finalizes Legislation for Fukushima Reconstruction

Tokyo, Feb. 10 (Jiji Press)--Japan's cabinet ministers endorsed on Friday draft legislation calling for measures to help victims of the nuclear crisis in Fukushima Prefecture, including special permission for evacuees to move in public housing.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021000226

Japan Postpones Approval of Additional Aid to TEPCO

Tokyo, Feb. 10 (Jiji Press)--Japanese industry minister Yukio Edano indicated Friday that he will not approve the same day additional financial aid of 690 billion yen to beleaguered Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501>.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021000502

Japan to OK Extra Financial Support for TEPCO Next Week

Tokyo, Feb. 10 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government is slated to approve additional financial support worth 690 billion yen for Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> next week, sources said Friday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021001043

Panel Seeks Background Checks on Nuclear Plant Workers

Tokyo, Feb. 10 (Jiji Press)--A panel of the Japan Atomic Energy Commission proposed in a draft report Friday that the government introduce background checks on workers at nuclear facilities as an antiterrorism measure.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021001091

Noda Calls for Sharing Disaster Debris Disposal Burden

Tokyo, Feb. 10 (Jiji Press)--Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda on Friday called on local communities across Japan to share the burden of accepting and disposing of debris from the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami that ravaged the Tohoku northeastern region.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021001109
___________________________________________________________
Sankei news

debris from Iwate pref to Shimada city, Shizuoka pref

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

11:52

13:15
http://youtu.be/XPhr0grKqE0

Press Release (Feb 11,2012)
Status of TEPCO's Facilities and its services after the Tohoku-Chihou-Taiheiyou-Oki Earthquake (as of 3:00 pm, February 11)
*excerpt

Unit 2 (Shut down)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12021105-e.html

11:00 PM: 74.9℃ at TV news

Midnight(Feb 12): 71.1℃ at Nikkei.com
___________________________________________________________
NHK world

Temperature inside No.2 reactor rises again

Tokyo Electric Power Company says the temperature inside the No.2 reactor at the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant has risen again.

Saturday, February 11, 2012 21:59 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120211_21.html 74.9℃→71.1 ℃
______________________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Radioactive waste site opened to media in Okuma

OKUMA, Fukushima--The government, for the first time, has allowed the media to cover operations to move waste contaminated by radioactive substances to a baseball stadium being used for temporary storage in the Ottozawa district in Okuma, Fukushima Prefecture.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120210006056.htm

Reconstruction Agency launched

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120210006780.htm

Govt to make TEPCO more transparent / 3 committees to oversee management

The government plans to require Tokyo Electric Power Co., operator of the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant, to introduce a committee governance structure to increase management transparency.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120210006779.htm

Panel: All N-plant staff should have ID checks

A committee of the Cabinet Office's Atomic Energy Commission plans to urge the government to require that nuclear facility operators verify the identity of all workers, in an effort to protect the sites against possible terrorist attacks, it has been learned.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120210006052.htm
_________________________________________________________
AJW

Noda urges rest of nation to accept rubble from quake-stricken region

Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda has called on local governments across the nation to accept debris from quake-stricken northeastern Japan to help share the enormous burden of disposal work and move forward with the reconstruction process.

Piles of wreckage remain at the former site of a public park in Yamada, Iwate Prefecture. (Ryota Goto)

A container truck leaves Yamada, Iwate Prefeture, on Feb. 10 to dispose of debris from the March 11 quake and tsunami. (Tomoaki Ito)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/quake_tsunami/AJ201202110041

State could gain control over TEPCO through voting rights

The government is expected to obtain a veto on key decisions at Tokyo Electric Power Co. as the utility leans toward granting voting rights of more than one-third in a government bailout.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202110007

Fukushima evacuation zone to be decontaminated in stages

The evacuated area around the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant will be divided into five zones along municipal borders under a staged government plan to return residents to their homes, sources said Feb. 10.

About 10,000 tons of waste from radioactive decontamination work will be temporarily stored at this baseball stadium in Okuma, Fukushima Prefecture, officials said Feb. 9. (Takayuki Kihara)

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201202110037

Video shows debris inside Fukushima reactor storage pool

New video footage of the storage pool inside the No. 4 reactor building of the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant showed that little had changed since observations made last May.

Footage shows debris scattered over spent fuel assemblies at the storage pool of the No. 4 reactor at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant. (Provided by Tokyo Electric Power Co.)

<iframe width="300" height="233" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Qw1gEiKkajQ?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Footage shows debris are scattered over spent fuel assemblies at the storage pool of the No. 4 reactor. (Provided by Tokyo Electric Power Co.)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202110016

Tokyo governor lashes out at nuclear referendum plan

Shintaro Ishihara, the outspoken governor of Tokyo, says he has no intention of supporting a referendum on nuclear power being sought by a citizens group.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202110047

High radioactive content detected in ash from wood stoves

Ash from wood-burning stoves in Miyagi Prefecture has been found to contain alarmingly high levels of radioactive cesium.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202110053

Atomic energy panel urges background checks for nuke plant workers

An atomic energy panel is calling for background checks on workers at nuclear power plants to guard against possible terrorist attacks at such facilities.

Workers in protective gear work at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant. An atomic energy committee is recommending background checks on all nuclear plant workers. (Asahi Shimbun file photo)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202110027
____________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Travel spending by foreign visitors to Japan up 34.3% in Dec.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2g00m0bu030000c.html

Talks under way to build large solar facility on land in Mie, Aichi

TSU (Kyodo) -- The Mie prefectural government is in talks with a regional agricultural administration office and neighboring Aichi Prefecture over the construction of a large solar-power facility on reclaimed land in Kisosaki, which straddles the two prefectures, Mie officials said Friday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2g00m0bu031000c.html

Chubu Electric signs 16-year deal to buy 8 mil. tons of LNG from BP

NAGOYA (Kyodo) -- Chubu Electric Power Co. said Friday it has signed a contract to procure a combined 8 million tons of liquefied natural gas with BP Singapore, a wholly owned BP plc subsidiary, over a 16-year period starting in April.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2g00m0bu032000c.html

TEPCO, nuclear liability fund seeking additional 1 trillion yen in loans

Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) and the government's Nuclear Damage Liability Facilitation Fund on Feb. 10 officially started asking financial institutions for additional loans set to total some 1 trillion yen.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2a00m0na006000c.html

Over 100,000 signatures collected for Tokai nuclear plant scrapping

MITO (Kyodo) -- Civic groups submitted to the Ibaraki governor on Friday about 51,000 signatures and a petition demanding that the Tokai No. 2 nuclear power station be scrapped, bringing the total number of signatures they have collected against the plant operation to more than 100,000.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2g00m0dm009000c.html

Japan's oil imports from Iran could fall amid nuclear tensions: Noda

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2g00m0dm010000c.html

Atomic energy commission to recommend background checks for nuclear workers

The Japan Atomic Energy Commission (JAEC) on Feb. 10 put together a draft report recommending energy companies be made to do background checks on employees working at important nuclear facilities or with nuclear materials.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2a00m0na002000c.html

Citizens group runs full-page anti-nuclear ad in Mainichi

A citizens group formed by intellectuals Shinichi Nakazawa, Tatsuru Uchida, and writer Seiko Ito ran a full-page anti-nuclear power ad in the Feb. 11 edition of the Mainichi Shimbun.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2a00m0na004000c.html

PM asks local gov'ts across Japan to help dispose of quake, tsunami rubble

Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda asked local governments across Japan to help dispose of the massive amount of rubble from the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami as the Reconstruction Agency was launched on Feb. 10.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2a00m0na008000c.html

3 arrested for stealing car, valuables from nuke crisis exclusion zone

Three men have been arrested on suspicion of stealing a car and valuables from empty communities in the Fukushima nuclear disaster exclusion zone, police announced on Feb. 10.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2a00m0na009000c.html this crime should be strictly punished

Tokyo Gov. Ishihara dismisses call for ordinance on nuclear plant referendum

Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara said Feb. 10 that he has no intention of creating an ordinance calling for a referendum to gauge support for nuclear power plants.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/11/20120211p2a00m0na014000c.html

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

Fukushima on 12 Feb

ship 10:21~

near unit 5,6

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xKJa3nYjEWU?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

Press Release (Feb 12,2012)
Status of TEPCO's Facilities and its services after the Tohoku-Chihou-Taiheiyou-Oki Earthquake (as of 3:30 pm, February 12)
*excerpt

Unit 2 (Shut down)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12021205-e.html
___________________________________________________________
NHK world

Temperature rising at No.2 reactor

The temperature at the No.2 reactor of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant keeps rising even after the injection of more cooling water on Saturday night.

Sunday, February 12, 2012 12:48 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120212_12.html

Nuclear accident scenario kept under wraps

A document submitted to the government 2 weeks after the Fukushima nuclear accident suggested that the Tokyo metropolitan area might have to be evacuated. But the government failed to acknowledge the existence of the document until the end of last year.

Sunday, February 12, 2012 23:24 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120212_23.html

Temperature at no. 2 reactor rises to 80 degrees

Tokyo Electric Power Company says the reading of one of the thermometers in the number 2 reactor at its Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant surpassed 80 degrees Celsius shortly after 2 PM on Sunday.

Sunday, February 12, 2012 23:24 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120212_24.html
____________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Tokyo gov. opposes 'N-vote'

Tokyo Gov. Shintaro Ishihara has spoken against establishing an ordinance to hold a referendum among residents of the capital on whether the operation of nuclear power plants should be allowed.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120211003443.htm

Civil engineers needed in 3 disaster-hit prefectures

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120211003359.htm

Reconstruction Agency faces urgent problems

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120211003511.htm
_________________________________________________________
AJW

Thousands hit Tokyo streets to demand 'No Nukes!'

Joining the growing call led by Nobel laureate Kenzaburo Oe, thousands of people rallied and took to the streets of Tokyo to demand the abolition of nuclear power plants on Feb. 11, the 11-month anniversary of the start of the nuclear disaster.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/life_and_death/AJ201202120015

TEPCO: No. 2 reactor?s temperature hits 82 degrees

The temperature in a reactor at the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant may have risen to 82 degrees on Feb. 12, a situation that could force the government to revoke the declaration of ?an equivalent of cold shutdown.?

Footage from an industrial endoscope shows what is believed to be piping and other equipment inside the No. 2 reactor's containment vessel at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant. (Provided by Tokyo Electric Power Co./ File Photo)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202120020
______________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Residents near Hamaoka plant evasive about no-nuke future

OMAEZAKI (Kyodo) -- It has been about nine months since the operator of the Hamaoka nuclear power plant in central Japan succumbed to a government request to suspend operations, and it now awaits the time when it would be allowed to restart it, while building a huge seawall designed to reduce the risks of tsunami damage that triggered the Fukushima Daiichi complex accident.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/features/archive/news/2012/02/20120212p2g00m0fe014000c.html

TEPCO to keep eye on No. 2 reactor without injecting more water

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Saturday that the temperature at the No. 2 reactor at its crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant has become stable so it will keep monitoring the situation without further increasing the amount of water injection into it.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/12/20120212p2g00m0dm002000c.html

TEPCO provided radiation map to U.S. before Japanese public

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. provided a contamination survey map of its crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant to the U.S. nuclear regulator nearly a month before its official disclosure to the public in Japan in late April last year, company officials said.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/12/20120212p2g00m0dm019000c.html

Fukushima No. 2 reactor temperature up to 82C, but not critical: TEPCO

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Sunday the temperature at the bottom of the No. 2 reactor at its crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant rose further to 82 C, but the reactor has not gone critical.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/12/20120212p2g00m0dm020000c.html

Nobel laureate, citizens call for abolition of nuclear power

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- An antinuclear civic group led by Nobel literature laureate Kenzaburo Oe and other celebrities held rallies in Tokyo and Niigata Prefecture on Saturday calling for the abolition of nuclear reactors in the aftermath of radiation leaks at the Fukushima No. 1 power plant.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/12/20120212p2g00m0dm021000c.html

From atomic bombings to nuclear disaster: director turns camera toward Fukushima

Director Hidetaka Inazuka, known for his documentary on the late double atomic bomb survivor Tsutomu Yamaguchi, has turned his attention toward Fukushima Prefecture, covering the prefecture in a new film on people exposed to radiation from the crippled Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/12/20120212p2a00m0na007000c.html
_______________________________________________________
Jiji press

Japan to Help Farmland Diversion for Renewable Energy

Tokyo, Feb. 12 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Ministry is planning legislative changes to ease the way for abandoned farmland to be consolidated for use in renewable energy projects.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021200051

Fukushima Nuclear Reactor Temperature on Rise Again

Tokyo, Feb. 12 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Sunday the temperature at the damaged No. 2 reactor of its disaster-stricken Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant has risen again despite a stepped-up cooling water injection.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021200071

(Update) Fukushima Reactor Temperature Tops Key Line; No Criticality

Tokyo, Feb. 12 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Sunday the temperature at a damaged reactor of its disaster-stricken Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant has surpassed a safety line despite a stepped-up cooling water injection.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021200177
_________________________________________________________
JMA

03:35 JST 12 Feb 2012 37.4N 141.7E 20 km M4.0 Fukushima-ken Oki


http://www.jma.go.jp/en/quake/2/20120212033907391-120335.html

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

07:28

workers in reactor building 4
*x20 speed
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/aNA0cxWS05U?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>
http://youtu.be/XPhr0grKqE0

Press Release (Feb 13,2012)
FY2011 Third Quarter Financial Results (April 1 through December 31, 2011)

Appendices:
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120213e2.pdf
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120213e3.pdf
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120213e4.pdf
<Reference 1> http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120213e5.pdf
<Reference 2> http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120213e6.pdf
<Reference 3> http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120213e7.pdf
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12021303-e.html

Press Release (Feb 13,2012)
Approval of the amendment of the Special Business Plan

Appendices: http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/betu12_e/images/120213e8.pdf
http://www.tepco.co.jp/cc/press/betu12_j/images/120213i.pdf
http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12021304-e.html

Press Release (Feb 13,2012)
Plant Status of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (as of 3:00 pm, February 13)
*excerpt

Unit 2 (Shut down)

Unit 3 (Shut down)

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12021307-e.html
_________________________________________________________
NHK world

One reading of Fukushima reactor exceeds 80 C

The operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant says the No.2 reactor is in a state of cold shutdown. This is despite the fact one of its thermometers showed a temperature above 80 degrees Celsius on Sunday.

Monday, February 13, 2012 05:10 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120213_04.html

Toshiba builds turbine factory in India

Monday, February 13, 2012 05:10 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120213_03.html

Regulators OK Ohi reactor stress test results

Japan's nuclear safety agency has approved the results of stress tests on 2 reactors at a nuclear power plant in central Japan.

Monday, February 13, 2012 07:21 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120213_06.html

School Fukushima village helped in Laos opens

A junior high school has been built in southern Laos with the help of a village in the evacuation zone near the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Monday, February 13, 2012 08:14 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120213_07.html

TEPCO carefully monitoring No.2 reactor

The operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant is carefully monitoring the No. 2 reactor one day after the reading of one of its thermometers topped the critical safety threshold of 80 degrees Celsius.

Monday, February 13, 2012 12:15 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120213_16.html

Hokkaido nuke plant holds accident drill

A disaster preparedness drill has been held at the Tomari nuclear power plant in Japan's northernmost prefecture of Hokkaido.

Monday, February 13, 2012 13:50 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120213_17.html

Safety agency: Restarting Ohi reactors is proper

Japan's nuclear safety agency has submitted a report on the results of stress tests on two nuclear power plant reactors, saying restarting them is appropriate.

Monday, February 13, 2012 19:31 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120213_22.html

Government approves additional funds for TEPCO

Japan's industry minister has warned Tokyo Electric Power Company, operator of the troubled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, that it must accept state control in order to get a capital injection.

Monday, February 13, 2012 20:17 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120213_29.html

TEPCO:broken thermometer may show high temperature

Tokyo Electric Power Company says a malfunctioning thermometer at the disabled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant is likely to blame for the high temperature reading in one of the reactors.

Monday, February 13, 2012 21:17 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120213_28.html
________________________________________________________
AJW

EDITORIAL: If TEPCO wants bailout, it must accept reality

Fierce bargaining and maneuvering have become the hallmark of moves to nationalize the Tokyo Electric Power Co., which is in dire financial straits in the aftermath of the disaster at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/views/editorial/AJ201202130063

Japan's nuclear watchdog OKs 2 reactor stress tests
*REUTERS

Japan's nuclear safety watchdog on Feb. 13 approved initial stress tests on the first pair of dozens of idled reactors, an early step in efforts to rebuild public trust in atomic energy after the world's worst nuclear accident in 25 years.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202130077

NISA: Glitch likely causing high temperature readings at reactor

The Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency said faulty thermometer measurements were likely responsible for the alarming spikes in temperature readings at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant's damaged No. 2 reactor.

Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency staff inspect the security system at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant on Feb. 6. (Provided by NISA)
http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202130050
__________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Documentary on Fukushima town screened at Berlin film festival

BERLIN (Kyodo) -- A documentary film featuring residents forced to evacuate their town, home to the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power station, was screened Sunday at the Berlin International Film Festival.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/arts/archive/news/2012/02/20120213p2g00m0et136000c.html

Futaba mayor angered by TEPCO and gov't disregard

"Do you think of Futaba county residents as Japanese citizens?" Futaba town mayor Katsutaka Idogawa pressed the prime minister in a meeting on Jan. 8. The two were face to face in the capital of Fukushima Prefecture, and according to media reports, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda had just re-sought permission to establish an intermediate storage facility for radiation-tainted soil and other waste in the prefectural county of Futaba.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/features/archive/news/2012/02/20120213p2a00m0na012000c.html

Toshiba CEO attends opening ceremony of power equipment plant in India

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/13/20120213p2g00m0bu109000c.html

TEPCO forecasts 695 bil. yen net loss for FY 2011

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Monday it expects to log a group net loss of 695 billion yen for the business year ending in March, compared with a previously forecast loss of 600 billion yen, on increasing fuel costs for thermal power generation in the aftermath of the nuclear crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi plant.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/13/20120213p2g00m0bu140000c.html

Chinese diplomat urges Iran to cooperate with IAEA

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/02/13/20120213p2g00m0in078000c.html

Fukushima No. 2 reactor nears 94 C, thermometer likely faulty: TEPCO

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Thermometer readings at the bottom of the No. 2 reactor at the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant rose further Monday to exceed 90 C for the first time since it attained a cold shutdown in December, reaching a new high of 93.7 C as of 11 a.m., Tokyo Electric Power Co. said.

Gov't approves additional 689 bil. yen aid for TEPCO

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government will provide additional financial support to Tokyo Electric Power Co. over its compensation payments related to the crisis at its Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, industry minister Yukio Edano said Monday, while warning that a possible request from the utility for a public fund injection would not be accepted unless the state can get "sufficient" control of the company management.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/13/20120213p2g00m0dm132000c.html

Agency reports validity of Oi reactor safety test to commission

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The government's nuclear safety agency said Monday it has reported its evaluation endorsing the results of safety tests on two idled reactors at Kansai Electric Power Co.'s Oi power plant to the Nuclear Safety Commission, a step necessary to reactivate the reactors.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/13/20120213p2g00m0dm134000c.html

High level of radioactive cesium found in Okinawa noodles

NAHA -- High levels of radioactive cesium have been detected in noodles produced in Okinawa, apparently because they were made with water filtered by ashes from Fukushima-produced wood.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/13/20120213p2a00m0na010000c.html

Possible sensor failure throws Fukushima reactor temp. data into doubt

Doubt has been cast on the accuracy of temperature readings from the No. 2 reactor at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant, as the government and plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) increasingly suspect a temperature sensor inside the reactor has malfunctioned.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/13/20120213p2a00m0na015000c.html

Radiation concerns keep municipalities from helping with disaster-area debris

Concerns about radiation are preventing the massive amount of debris left in areas hit by the March 2011 tsunami from being sent to other areas for processing.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/13/20120213p2a00m0na017000c.html

Professor who promoted lenient standards for nuclear containers received donations

A Tokyo Institute of Technology professor received a large amount of donations from engineering firm OCL Corp. before he promoted lenient inspection standards for spent nuclear fuel casks that the company produced, the Mainichi has learned.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/13/20120213p2a00m0na018000c.html
____________________________________________________________
Jiji press

Toshiba's Steam Turbine Plant Completed in India

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012021300381

Meiji Holdings Cuts Earnings Forecasts on Tainted Milk Discovery

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--Japanese food maker Meiji Holdings Co. <2269> said Monday it has revised down its group earnings projections for fiscal 2011 mainly due to negative effects from the discovery of trace amounts of radioactive cesium in its key baby formula product.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012021300668

TEPCO Posts 623 B. Yen in Losses

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Monday it incurred a group net loss of 623 billion yen for the nine months through December, due primarily to two trillion yen of extraordinary losses related to compensation for people affected by meltdowns at its Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant in March last year.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012021300920

Fukushima Reactor Thermometer Shows Even Higher Readings

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--One of the three thermometers for a reactor of Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s <9501> disaster-stricken Fukushima No. 1 nuclear plant showed even higher readings of over 90 degrees Celsius on Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300373

Japan Govt OKs 690-B.-Yen Support for TEPCO

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese government on Monday approved a special business program for Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501>, a prerequisite for 690 billion yen in additional financial support sought by the power firm.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300387

Agency OKs Measures against Quake, Tsunami at 2 Japan N-Reactors

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--The industry ministry's Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency in a report submitted to a government commission has approved measures Kansai Electric Power Co. <9503> has taken to protect the No. 3 and No. 4 reactors at its Oi nuclear power plant against a possible huge earthquake and tsunami, agency officials said Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300524

Fukushima Univ. Ties Up with Radiological Institute

Fukushima, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--Japan's Fukushima University on Monday signed an agreement with the National Institute of Radiological Sciences to collaborate on measures to protect people from exposure to radiation from the damaged local nuclear power plant.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300661

(Update) Govt Panel to Reach Stress Test Conclusion on 2 Reactors by March

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--The government's Nuclear Safety Commission on Monday began discussions on an industry ministry-affiliated agency's report that evaluated the stress test results on two nuclear power reactors in central Japan, with the aim of reaching a conclusion by the end of March as to whether the evaluation is appropriate.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300840

Japan Atomic Power Plant Barely Withstood Tsunami

Tokai, Ibaraki Pref., Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--Japan Atomic Power Co.'s Tokai No. 2 nuclear power plant in eastern Japan barely withstood the tsunami that followed the March 11 earthquake, experts said Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300836

Thermometer Broken at Fukushima Reactor

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Monday it believes that one of three thermometers of the No. 2 reactor at its crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant is not working.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300892

Cesium Found in Soil on Used Plastic Greenhouses in Chiba

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--Excessive levels of radiation contamination have been found in soil left on plastic greenhouses used by farmers in Chiba Prefecture, eastern Japan, a local semi-public recycling company said Monday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300926

(Update) Thermometer Broken at Fukushima Reactor

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co. <9501> said Monday it believes that one of three thermometers of the No. 2 reactor at its crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant is not working.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300950

Absolute Safety of N-Plants Impossible: Hokkaido Electric

Tokyo, Feb. 13 (Jiji Press)--Hokkaido Electric Power Co. <9509> said in a document submitted to Sapporo District Court Monday that it is impossible to ensure the absolute safety of nuclear power plants.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021300931

 

[makoto]

Re: Japan - Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Crisis Units 1-6 Reports, News, Graphics - January 13, 2012 +

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/nu/f1-np/camera/index-e.html

22:15
http://youtu.be/XPhr0grKqE0

Press Release (Feb 14,2012)
Receipt of instruction document from NISA regarding submission request for report on the correspondence for temperature increase in the lower part of the Reactor Pressure Vessel of Unit 2 at TEPCO Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station.

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12021401-e.html

Press Release (Feb 14,2012)
Announcement of change of director

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12021402-e.html

Press Release (Feb 14,2012)
Plant Status of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (as of 3:00 pm, February 14)
*excerpt

Others

http://www.tepco.co.jp/en/press/corp-com/release/12021407-e.html
__________________________________________________________
NHK world

US, N Korea to hold nuclear talks in Beijing

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 06:21 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120214_04.html

NHK poll: 22 percent approve restart of reactors

An NHK poll shows that just over 20 percent of people surveyed support restarting the dozens of idled nuclear reactors in Japan.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 09:31 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120214_07.html

Govt and TEPCO play tug-of-war over voting rights

Difficult negotiations between the Japanese government and the operator of the tsunami-hit nuclear plant over voting rights of the company will soon begin in earnest.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 11:43 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120214_17.html

TEPCO: No.2 reactor thermometer likely broken

The operator of the damaged nuclear power plant in Fukushima suspects a thermometer that has been showing rising temperatures in one of the reactors is malfunctioning.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 15:32 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120214_27.html

Geothermal power plants may be allowed in parks

A panel of Japan's Environment Ministry has come up with a basic plan to conditionally allow geothermal power generation in national parks.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 19:27 +0900 (JST)
http://www3.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/20120214_30.html
_________________________________________________
Yomiuri online

Evacuees pray at graves in no-entry zone

Evacuees making temporary visits to their homes in the no-entry zone around the crippled Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant have for the first time been allowed to visit their family graves.

http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/dy/national/T120213005366.htm
_________________________________________________
AJW

TEPCO concludes thermometer is broken, says no cause for alarm

Off-the-chart temperature readings at the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant's damaged No. 2 reactor are due to a faulty thermometer and no cause for alarm, according to plant operator Tokyo Electric Power Co.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202140044

A guide to Japan's new nuclear regulatory agency

Although the government plans to pass legislation in the current Diet session to establish a new nuclear safety regulatory agency in April, questions and doubts remain over the effectiveness of the new watchdog.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/politics/AJ201202140003

Tug of war escalates over TEPCO management control

Still infuriated by an “offer” from Tokyo Electric Power Co., industry minister Yukio Edano sternly told the utility’s president that the government will not back off its plan to virtually nationalize the embattled company.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/behind_news/politics/AJ201202140047

Environmental group hopes to rival success of Europe's greens

A new environmentalist political organization held its first news conference in Tokyo on Feb. 13, pledging to rid Japan of nuclear power and block the Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade agreement.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/0311disaster/fukushima/AJ201202140036

Composer Sakamoto promises to continue anti-nuke tune

BERLIN--World-renowned composer Ryuichi Sakamoto is vowing to use his considerable talents and the power of music to maintain the public's interest in the dangers of nuclear power.

http://ajw.asahi.com/article/cool_japan/movies/AJ201202140005
________________________________________________________
Mainichi jp(Kyodo, AP)

Editorial: Govt' must be aware of responsibilities if it takes over TEPCO

Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano has approved additional financial assistance of some 690 billion yen for the troubled Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO), the operator of the Fukushima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant, to provide funds for the massive compensations for nuclear disaster-induced damage. Apart from this, the government is poised to inject public funds into the utility to place it under virtual state control and prevent the firm from becoming insolvent. The minister's approval had been delayed due to rows between the utility and the government over the latter's demand to share TEPCO's management rights.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/perspectives/editorial/news/20120214p2a00m0na005000c.html

Edano hints at following Resona case when injecting money into TEPCO

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Industry minister Yukio Edano indicated Tuesday that the government may follow a system used for recapitalizing Resona Bank, in which it injected public funds through purchases of the bank's common shares, when it pumps taxpayers' money into Tokyo Electric Power Co. to help the utility make compensation payments following the nuclear disaster.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/business/archive/news/2012/02/14/20120214p2g00m0bu163000c.html

Iran: Nuclear facilities immune to cyber attacks

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/02/14/20120214p2g00m0in113000c.html

Pakistan, China mull ambitious nuclear power deal: sources

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/international/archive/news/2012/02/14/20120214p2g00m0in116000c.html

Half of female univ. students want nuke plants scrapped: survey

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Nearly half of female university students in Japan surveyed want all nuclear power plants to be decommissioned in the wake of the nuclear crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant triggered by the massive earthquake and tsunami last year, survey results showed Monday.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/14/20120214p2g00m0dm004000c.html

Fukushima No. 2 reactor's thermometer likely faulty: TEPCO

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Tokyo Electric Power Co. said Monday temperature readings at the bottom of the No. 2 reactor at the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant soared earlier in the day due possibly to a malfunctioning thermometer.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/14/20120214p2g00m0dm010000c.html

TEPCO should accept state control to get capital injection: Edano

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- Industry minister Yukio Edano said Monday an injection of public funds into Tokyo Electric Power Co. would be unacceptable if the government could not acquire a controlling interest in the utility, in a strong warning to the operator of the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant over its desire to maintain independence.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/14/20120214p2g00m0dm011000c.html

Civic group files petition with Osaka city over nuclear power

OSAKA (Kyodo) -- A civic group seeking a referendum on whether to keep nuclear power plants said Tuesday it has filed a direct petition with the city of Osaka to hold a plebiscite on the issue in the wake of the nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi plant.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/14/20120214p2g00m0dm157000c.html

Hokkaido Electric seeks dismissal of demand for decommissioning of Tomari reactors

Hokkaido Electric Power Co. called on the Sapporo District Court on Feb. 13 to dismiss plaintiffs' demand that all three reactors at the Tomari Nuclear Power Plant be decommissioned, saying that it is impossible to rely completely on even advanced science and technology for "absolute" safety of nuclear reactors.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/14/20120214p2a00m0na011000c.html

Institute develops memory card-sized ultra small dosimeters

TSUKUBA, Ibaraki -- A research institute based here has announced its success in developing an ultra-small integrative and high-quality radiation dosimeter that is no bigger than the size of a memory card, it has been learned.

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/national/archive/news/2012/02/14/20120214p2a00m0na015000c.html
_____________________________________________________________
Jiji press

TEPCO Union Gives Up on Wage Hike Requests

Tokyo, Feb. 14 (Jiji Press)--Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s <9501> labor union decided Tuesday not to demand an increase in wages for its members given the troubled company's current status.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=ind&k=2012021400812

Civic Group Asks Osaka Mayor for Nuclear Referendum Ordinance

Osaka, Feb. 14 (Jiji Press)--A Japanese civic group asked Osaka Mayor Toru Hashimoto on Tuesday to draw up an ordinance to hold a referendum on whether to keep using nuclear power.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021400118

Marubeni-Led Group to Join Large-Scale Wind Power Project off Fukushima

Tokyo, Feb. 14 (Jiji Press)--A consortium led by major Japanese trader Marubeni Corp. <8002> plans to join a large-scale experimental wind power generation project off the coast of Fukushima Prefecture, company officials said Tuesday.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021400871

Japan to Overhaul Emergency Response Bases for N-Crisis

Tokyo, Feb. 14 (Jiji Press)--A taskforce of the Nuclear Safety Commission of Japan began a review Tuesday of emergency response bases for nuclear accidents, based on lessons learned from a triple meltdown at Tokyo Electric Power Co.'s <9501> Fukushima No. 1 nuclear station.

http://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2012021400980