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The VPR News Trail: Vermont Yankee

Thursday, 01/28/10 8am

AP Photo/Vermont Yankee Corporation,File

VPR covers the issues surrounding the Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Plant: relicensing, closure and clean-up, political questions, environmental concerns, and more.

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Entergy Spin Off Could Go Forward Without Yankee Tuesday, 03/16/10 6:34am - VPR News The Entergy Corporation says it could go-ahead with a planned corporate spin off even if Vermont Yankee is not part of the deal. Entergy needs approval from regulators in New York and Vermont to transfer ownership of six nuclear plants into a new company called Enexus.
PSB Holds Hearing On Yankee Leaks Wednesday, 03/10/10 5:50pm and Thursday, 03/11/10 6:34am - VPR News State regulators want to know if they have the authority to shut down Vermont Yankee while it is leaking radioactivity into the environment. The Public Service Board held a hearing today to investigate the issue.
Voices In The Week's News: March 5, 2010 Friday, 03/05/10 12:50pm - VPR News These were some of the voices in the news this week.
Troubles At Yankee Affecting Industry Elsewhere Thursday, 03/04/10 5:50pm and Friday, 03/05/10 7:34am - VPR News The troubles at Vermont Yankee are beginning to affect the nuclear power industry elsewhere in the country. Today, New York regulators raised concerns about Entergy's record in Vermont.
Entergy Makes Spinoff Concessions For Regulators Thursday, 03/04/10 6:06am - VPR News Power provider Entergy Corporation has agreed to financial concessions in an attempt to win approval from New York regulators for a proposed spin-off of six nuclear units.
Towns Speak Out On Vermont Yankee Tuesday, 03/02/10 5:50pm and Wednesday, 03/03/10 7:50am - VPR News As of early evening, 14 towns have called on the Legislature to make sure Vermont Yankee shuts down after its license expires in two years.
Poll Says Public Has Lost Trust In Yankee Tuesday, 03/02/10 7:34am - VPR News A new poll shows Entergy Vermont Yankee has lost the trust of a majority of Vermonters. The poll says a radiation leak at the plant has severely eroded public support for the plant to operate after 2012.
NRC Seeks Info From Vermont Yankee Owner Tuesday, 03/02/10 6:06am - VPR News The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has submitted a Demand for Information letter to Vermont Yankee owner Entergy seeking documents related to statements made about a tritium leak.
Source Of Tritium Leak At Vermont Yankee May Have Been Found Friday, 02/26/10 5:50pm - VPR News The source of radioactive tritium that's been leaking from the Vermont Yankee plant may have been found this morning.
Douglas Says Yankee Could Be In Vermont's Energy Future Friday, 02/26/10 5:50pm - VPR News Governor Jim Douglas says Vermont Yankee could play a role in the state's energy future - if questions about the facility are answered, and if plant officials repair a breach of trust with the state.
Analyst Eric Davis On VT Yankee Political Implications Friday, 02/26/10 1pm - VPR News Political analyst Eric Davis of Middlebury College examines how the Senate vote for Vermont Yankee will impact Vermont's gubernatorial race.
Possible Source Of Yankee Leak Identified Friday, 02/26/10 12:04pm - VPR News The source of leaking radioactive tritium may have been found at Vermont Yankee.
Governor Jim Douglas Friday, 02/26/10 Noon and 7pm - Vermont Edition Governor Jim Douglas addresses this week's Senate vote on Vermont Yankee that he has labeled “meaningless.” He also discusses his plan for property tax reform.
Lynch Pleased With NRC Reponse To Vermont Yankee Friday, 02/26/10 6:06am - VPR News New Hampshire Gov. John Lynch says he's pleased the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is taking a more active role in overseeing the tritium leak at the Vermont Yankee power plant.
The Long-Term Future of Vermont Yankee Thursday, 02/25/10 1:56pm - VPR News VPR's Jane Lindholm discusses what the Senate's action means for the long-term future of Vermont Yankee with reporter John Dillon and Michael Dworkin, a former chair of the Public Service Board.
Senate Votes Against Vermont Yankee Thursday, 02/25/10 Noon and 7pm - Vermont Edition Voice your reaction to the Vermont Seante's vote against a bill that could have allowed the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant to renew its operating license for 20 more years. Also, the Air Guard explains why it wants to be home to a new fleet of F-35s, despite noise concerns.
Entergy Says Yankee Vote Is A Setback Wednesday, 02/24/10 5:50pm and Thursday, 02/25/10 7:04am - VPR News Entergy Corp. says today's Senate vote was a setback. But it's still determined to operate Vermont Yankee until 2032.
Senate Votes Against Yankee Re-licensing Wednesday, 02/24/10 5:50pm and Thursday, 02/25/10 6:34am - VPR News In a historic vote on Wednesday, the Vermont Senate blocked the re-licensing of the state's only nuclear power plant. The action was a serious blow to Vermont Yankee, which has been plagued this year by tritium leaks and other high-profile problems.
Senate Hands Vermont Yankee A Defeat Wednesday, 02/24/10 1:30pm - VPR News Senators defeated a bill today that would have permitted Vermont Yankee to be relicensed for another 20 years.
Hodes Calls For Shut Down Of VT Yankee Wednesday, 02/24/10 6:06am - VPR News New Hampshire Congressman Paul Hodes is calling for the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant to be shut down immediately until a tritium leak is fixed.
On Eve Of Senate Vote, Entergy Offers Discounted Power Tuesday, 02/23/10 5:51pm and Wednesday, 02/24/10 6:34am - VPR News On the eve of a legislative vote on Vermont Yankee's future, the plant's owner has offered to sell the state discounted power. Entergy's proposal did not sway legislative leaders, who insist the plant should be shut down when its license expires in two years.
Yankee At Center Of Dueling Media Campaigns Tuesday, 02/23/10 7:34am - VPR News A public relations campaign is under way as the Senate gets ready to vote this week on the future of Vermont Yankee. Entergy has launched radio ads and enlisted allies in the business community in an effort to stop the vote. Opponents of the plant are on TV with ads saying it should be retired on schedule when its license expires in two years.
NRC Confirms 2005 Tritium Leak At Vermont Yankee Monday, 02/22/10 5:51pm and Tuesday, 02/23/10 6:04am - VPR News Officials with the federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission have confirmed that the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant had a leak of radioactive tritium 5 years ago.
Yankee Vote Becomes Issue In Gubernatorial Race Monday, 02/22/10 5:50pm and Tuesday, 02/23/10 6:34am - VPR News The future of Vermont Yankee is emerging as a key issue in the Democratic gubernatorial race. The Senate is set to vote this week on whether the plant should be re-licensed for another 20 years.
Nuclear Power Opponents Rally Against Vermont Yankee Monday, 02/22/10 7:34am and 5:30pm - VPR News Nuclear power opponents converged in Brattleboro for a rally Sunday. They called for Vermont Yankee to stop operating until the source of the tritium leak is and they called for a permanent shut down when the plant's license expires in 2012.
Groups All For Criminal Investigation For Yankee Owners Monday, 02/22/10 6:34am - VPR News Two environmental groups critical of Vermont Yankee are calling for a federal criminal investigation over what they say are false statements made by plant owners to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
The Upcoming Vote On Vermont Yankee Friday, 02/19/10 Noon - VPR News VPR's Bob Kinzel talks with Senate President Peter Shumlin and Rutland Senator Peg Flory about next week's Senate vote on the license extension for the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant in Vernon.
Previewing The Senate's Vote On Vermont Yankee Friday, 02/19/10 Noon and 7pm - Vermont Edition The Vermont Senate will hold a key vote on whether to extend the license to operate Vermont Yankee for another 20 years. We hear both sides of the heated debate and preview the upcoming vote.
Douglas, Yankee Ask Lawmakers To Delay Vote Thursday, 02/18/10 5:50pm and Friday, 02/19/10 7:34am - VPR News Entergy Vermont Yankee and the Douglas administration asked lawmakers to delay a vote on the plant's future even as new allegations emerged about underground pipes leaking at the plant.
Senate Leaders Hope To Derail Relicensing Of Yankee Tuesday, 02/16/10 5:51pm and Wednesday, 02/17/10 7:34am - VPR News Senate President Peter Shumlin says that through a legislative procedure, the chamber could prevent the Public Service Board from deciding a 20-year extension on the license of Vermont Yankee.
Vermont Yankee Creates Separate Cultures Tuesday, 02/16/10 7:50am and 5:30pm - VPR News The Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant has generated electricity for 38 years. And it's generated bitter debate throughout the state. Differences of opinion about nuclear power have spawned separate cultures, each with its own version of the truth about Yankee.
Lawmakers Ask When Vermont Yankee Should Be Closed Saturday, 02/13/10 9:34am - VPR News Vermont lawmakers want to know at what point the Vermont Yankee plant should be closed to stop a radioactive leak.
Voices In The Week's News: February 12, 2010 Friday, 02/12/10 2:20pm - VPR News These were some of the voices in the week's news.
Entergy Nuclear Spinoff Plan Hits Obstacle Friday, 02/12/10 6:06am - VPR News Entergy Corp.'s plan to improve its finances by spinning off its nuclear plants into a standalone company faces another obstacle.
Sanders Says Yankee Should Close In 2012 Thursday, 02/11/10 7:04am - VPR News Senator Bernie Sanders says Vermont Yankee should close when its license expires in two years.
Lynch Calls For Investigation Of Vermont Yankee Leak Thursday, 02/11/10 6:06am - VPR News New Hampshire's governor is calling for an investigation into the discovery of a radioactive leak at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
Top Tritium Reading Down At Vermont Yankee Thursday, 02/11/10 6:06am - VPR News Readings from test wells at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant show a decline in the amount of radioactive tritium in one well, and increases in others.
Patrick Calls For More Tests At Nuclear Plants Thursday, 02/11/10 6:06am - VPR News Mass. Gov. Deval Patrick is asking the federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission to ramp up testing for potential leaks both Vermont's Yankee plant and the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station in Plymouth, Mass.
Nuclear Expert Says Yankee Should Shut Down Wednesday, 02/10/10 5:51pm and Thursday, 02/11/10 6:34am - VPR News An expert on nuclear power hired by the Legislature says Vermont Yankee should shut down voluntarily to stop its radiation leaks. But Yankee and the state Department of Health say the public's health is not in danger from the leaks.
Groundwater Contamination At Vt. Yankee As Big As Football Field Tuesday, 02/09/10 5:49pm and Wednesday, 02/10/10 7:34am - VPR News The zone of groundwater now contaminated at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant is about the size of a football field.
Vermont Yankee Tritium Level Down Slightly Tuesday, 02/09/10 6:06am - VPR News The Vermont Health Department says a groundwater monitoring well at Vermont Yankee has produced a tritium reading of 2.38 million picocuries per liter of water, down slightly from a reading of 2.45 million taken Saturday.
Hodes Says Vermont Yankee Taking Necessary Steps Tuesday, 02/09/10 6:06am - VPR News New Hampshire Rep. Paul Hodes says he believes all the necessary steps are being taken to find the source of tritium leaking into groundwater at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
Nuclear Power Up For Debate At UVM Monday, 02/08/10 8:45am - VPR News Whether or not new nuclear plants should be built is up for debate this afternoon at the University of Vermont's Janus Forum. Arguing against more plants is Tyson Slocum of the group Public Citizen. He'll be speaking with author and journalist William Tucker.
Hodes Wants More Oversight Over Vermont Yankee For NH Monday, 02/08/10 6:06am - VPR News New Hampshire Congressman Paul Hodes is scheduled to travel to the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in Vernon and inspect safety procedures.
Tritium Levels Are Highest Yet Found At Vermont Yankee Friday, 02/05/10 5:51pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee says it has found very high levels of tritium near pipes that drain several systems that hold radioactive water at the plant.
VT Edition: John Dillon On Vermont Yankee Friday, 02/05/10 1pm - VPR News Reporter John Dillon joins VPR's Bob Kinzel to discuss the latest news involving Vermont Yankee, the tritium leaks at the plant and the effect on its operation.
Yankee Getting Closer To Finding Source Of Radiation Leak Thursday, 02/04/10 5:51pm and Friday, 02/05/10 7:04am - VPR News Vermont Yankee says it may be getting closer to finding the source of a radiation leak at the plant. A test well has turned up relatively high levels of tritium, a radioactive isotope, which could pinpoint where the leak is coming from.
NRC Chief Says Agency Monitoring Vermont Yankee Thursday, 02/04/10 6:06am - VPR News The chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is telling Vermont's congressional delegation that his agency is keeping close tabs on the tritium leak at Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
Still Higher Tritium Readings Found At Yankee Wednesday, 02/03/10 6:06am - VPR News Officials at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant say they have found the highest readings yet of radioactive tritium in a monitoring well at the Vernon reactor.
Top Executive At Entergy Is Reassigned Tuesday, 02/02/10 5:51pm and Wednesday, 02/03/10 7:04am - VPR News The Entergy Corporation has reassigned a top executive for providing misleading information to state regulators about the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
New Tritium Levels Highest Yet Tuesday, 02/02/10 7:34am - VPR News Levels of radioactive tritium in two new test wells at Vermont Yankee are the highest yet found near the Vernon reactor.
Yankee Radiation Level Requires Federal Notice Monday, 02/01/10 6:06am - VPR News A spokesman for Vermont's only nuclear plant says the level of radiation found in a monitoring well is enough to require notifying federal regulators, though it does not pose a public health risk.
VPR's John Dillon On Tritium At VT Yankee Friday, 01/29/10 1:44pm - VPR News Reporter John Dillon talks with VPR's Bob Kinzel about the politics and community concerns of the radioactive tritium discovered underground at the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in Vernon.
VT Edition: Vermont Yankee's Future Friday, 01/29/10 1:29pm - VPR News VPR's Bob Kinzel talks with two lawmakers from the southeastern corner of Vermont about how the Legislature should proceed on questions around the Vermont Yankee.
Lawmakers Debate Vermont Yankee's Future Friday, 01/29/10 Noon and 7pm - Vermont Edition Host Bob Kinzel talks with Representatives Patti O'Donnell (R-Vernon) and Sarah Edwards (P-Brattleboro) about the safety and future of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant. Also, VPR's John Dillon analyzes the politics of the issue, and we listen back to some of the voices in the week's news.
Utilities Look For Power Sources To Replace Yankee Friday, 01/29/10 7:50am and 5:30pm - VPR News With Vermont Yankee facing an uncertain future, utilities are busy looking at other power sources for the decade ahead. The companies say they see a variety of options if they need to replace electricity they now get from the nuclear plant.
Governor Hopes Yankee Will Still Be Part Of Vermont's Energy Future Thursday, 01/28/10 5:50pm and Friday, 01/29/10 6:34am - VPR News Governor Jim Douglas says he hopes the current problems at Vermont Yankee can be straightened out, so the plant can play a part in the state's energy future. But he says the owners will have to change their attitude about the seriousness of the situation.
Yankee Loses Support Of Governor And Regulators Wednesday, 01/27/10 5:51pm and Thursday, 01/28/10 7:34am - VPR News Today, Governor Jim Douglas said Entergy Vermont Yankee has lost his and the public's trust due to radiation leaks and a series of misstatements about underground pipes at the nuclear power plant.
Yankee Rebuffed By Governor, Rebuked By Regulators Wednesday, 01/27/10 4pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee was rebuffed by Gov. Jim Douglas today and rebuked by state regulators.
Delegation Wants NRC To Get Tough On Yankee Wednesday, 01/27/10 7:34am - VPR News Vermont's congressional delegation wants the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to get tough on Entergy Vermont Yankee for allegedly misleading state officials.
CLF Says Yankee Should Close Until Leak Source Found Tuesday, 01/26/10 6:06am - VPR News An environmental group is calling for Vermont Yankee to be closed until the source of a radioactive tritium leak at the plant can be found.
Documents Show Entergy Knew Of Underground Pipes Tuesday, 01/26/10 6:06am - VPR News Documents show that the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant's operators knew there were underground pipes at the plant--pipes officials later said didn't exist.
Legislative Leaders Say Administration Should Oppose Enexus Monday, 01/25/10 5:50pm and Tuesday, 01/26/10 6:34am - VPR News Legislative leaders say the Douglas administration should withdraw its support for a new company that hopes to buy the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
Nuclear Engineer Says He Alerted State About Yankee Pipes Last Summer Friday, 01/22/10 5:51pm - VPR News A nuclear engineer who advises the legislature says he alerted the state last summer and fall about the potential problems with underground pipes at Vermont Yankee.
Douglas Maintains Stance On Vermont Yankee Thursday, 01/21/10 5:50pm and Friday, 01/22/10 7:04am - VPR News Governor Jim Douglas says the Public Service Board - not politicians - should have the authority to decide Vermont Yankee's future because it has the expertise to decide whether Yankee should be licensed to operate for another 20 years.
Scientist Edwin Lyman Explains Tritium Thursday, 01/21/10 7:50am - VPR News But just how worried should people be about the discovery of tritium at Vermont Yankee? To get to the science behind the headlines regarding tritium we got in touch with Doctor Edwin Lyman, a senior scientist at the Union of Concerned Scientists in Washington.
More Radioactive Tritium Discovered At Vermont Yankee Wednesday, 01/20/10 5:51pm and Thursday, 01/21/10 6:34am - VPR News There's been yet another discovery of radioactive tritium at Vermont Yankee. This time the tritium was found in a concrete-lined vault containing pipes near the reactor.
Much Higher Levels Of Radioactive Tritium Reported At Vermont Yankee Wednesday, 01/20/10 3:55pm - VPR News State officials say more radioactive tritium has been found at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant _ at much higher levels than were found in a test well nearly two weeks ago.
Yankee Discovers Tritium In Second Well Tuesday, 01/19/10 5:51pm and Wednesday, 01/20/10 7:34am - VPR News Entergy Vermont Yankee has discovered radioactive tritium in a second monitoring well near the Vernon reactor. Yankee says the finding will help engineers pinpoint the source of the contaminated water that appears to be moving toward the Connecticut River.
Following Disclosure, Yankee's Record Is Examined Monday, 01/18/10 5:51pm - VPR News State regulators learned last week that they were apparently misled about the existence of underground pipes at Vermont Yankee. Now, a lot of people are examining the record to see what Vermont Yankee officials said.
Yankee's Credibility Challenged Friday, 01/15/10 5:50pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee this week confirmed there are underground pipes on the plant's property that may be leaking radioactive material. The company had previously assured lawmakers and the Public Service Board that the plant had no such pipes.
Yankee Admits Underground Pipes Could Be Source Of Leak Friday, 01/15/10 7:04am - VPR News Entergy Vermont Yankee has told the state that the nuclear plant does have underground pipes that could be the source of radioactive tritium recently found in a well near the Connecticut River.
Vernon Officials Lobby For Yankee License Extension Wednesday, 01/13/10 7:04am - VPR News Officials from southern Vermont were in Montpelier on Tuesday to lobby for Vermont Yankee's license to be extended. The nuclear power plant employs about 650 people, and pays about $1.2 million in taxes to the town of Vernon.
Walkers Want Vermont Yankee Shut Down Tuesday, 01/12/10 7:50am - VPR News Bob Bady lives in Brattleboro and is with the "Safe and Green Campaign Walk." He and others with the campaign feel so strongly that Vermont Yankee should be closed for good that he's been walking 126 miles to the state capital to let the legislature know about the movement.
Scientists Look For Source Of Radioactive Water Tuesday, 01/12/10 7:34am - VPR News Vermont Yankee has assigned a team of scientists and technicians to look for the source of radioactive water discovered recently in a monitoring well, while lawmakers want to know if the contamination will add to the cost of decommissioning the plant.
Radioactive Isotope Discovered At Vermont Yankee Friday, 01/08/10 Noon - VPR News A problem cropping up at nuclear plants around the country has occurred at Vermont Yankee. Plant technicians have discovered a radioactive isotope called tritium in a monitoring well on the Vernon reactor site.
House Speaker Shap Smith Friday, 01/08/10 Noon and 7pm - Vermont Edition House Speaker Shap Smith discusses the state's budget problems, the future of Vermont Yankee, education funding and spending and health care reform legislation.
Vermont Yankee Opponents Start Walk To Montpelier Tuesday, 01/05/10 7:34am - VPR News Residents of three states who live within 20 miles of Vermont Yankee set off on foot this weekend from Brattleboro to make a point. They plan to walk 126 miles to Montpelier, to show their opposition to extending the nuclear plant's operating license when its current license expires in 2012.
Yankee May Close Down Without Approval Of Spin-off Tuesday, 12/22/09 5:50pm - VPR News The owners of Vermont Yankee say they might shut the plant down in 2012, if Vermont doesn't approve of a new spin-off corporation that would own the reactor.
Vermont Yankee Offers Rates It Wants To Charge Friday, 12/18/09 5:50pm - VPR News After months of delay, Vermont Yankee has released the rate that it wants to be paid for future power contracts.
State Senator Peter Shumlin Friday, 12/18/09 Noon and 7pm - Vermont Edition Senate President and gubernatorial candidate Peter Shumlin discusses new developments in the re-licensing of Vermont Yankee and other issues that will face the state's next governor.
Vermont Yankee To File Power Deal Friday, 12/18/09 6:06am - VPR News The owner of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant is expected to reveal a long awaited deal on what it would charge the state's utilities for power if it's operating license is renewed.
Nuclear Plant Opponents Plan Walk To Montpelier Friday, 12/11/09 6:06am - VPR News A group of Vermont Yankee opponents who want the state to block its re-licensing are planning a novel approach - walking 122 miles from Brattleboro to Montpelier to buttonhole legislators at the Statehouse.
Douglas Says Yankee Relicensing Is A Top Legislative Priority Thursday, 12/10/09 5:50pm - VPR News Governor Jim Douglas says re-licensing the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant is one of his top priorities for the 2010 legislative session.
Voices in the week's news: December 4, 2009 Friday, 12/04/09 2:15pm - VPR News These were some of the voices in the news this week.
Lawmakers, Regulators Question Yankee Spin Off Thursday, 12/03/09 7:34am - VPR News Lawmakers and state utility regulators are asking tough questions about a plan to spin off Vermont Yankee into a new company. They want to know if the new corporation is taking on too much debt. And they're asking whether the company will have enough money to make major repairs and dismantle the nuclear plant after it's shut down.
State Senator Doug Racine Friday, 11/20/09 Noon and 7pm - Vermont Edition As part of our continuing series of candidate interviews, Chittenden Senator Doug Racine discusses his positions on health care reform, the future of Vermont Yankee and his plans to stimulate the Vermont economy.
Vt. Nuke Critics Renew Campaign Against Relicense Friday, 11/20/09 6:06am - VPR News Two of Vermont's most famous residents and one of its former governors have joined groups opposed to the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in announcing a push for Town Meeting Day votes on whether the plant should keep operating past 2012.
Shumlin To Vote Against Yankee License Renewal Friday, 11/13/09 5:50pm - VPR News Senate President Peter Shumlin says he'll vote against a license extension for the Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Plant, because owners of the facility haven't reached a rate agreement with Vermont utilities.
Vermont Yankee Friday, 11/13/09 Noon and 7pm - Vermont Edition We examine a variety of issues and questions concerning the re-licensing of the Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Plant.
VT Yankee Decommissioning Fund Dips Again Tuesday, 11/10/09 8:13am - VPR News The Vermont Yankee nuclear plant's decommissioning fund lost money in October, after several months of recovering from last year's big stock market declines.
VT Edition: Reporter's Roundable Thursday, 11/05/09 1pm - VPR News Reporters Ross Sneyd and John Dillon join VPR's Bob Kinzel to talk about Vermont candidates in the 2010 elections.
Uncertainty Grows On Vermont Yankee Future Thursday, 11/05/09 8:05am - VPR News A key Vermont lawmaker says he thinks there's still a possibility the Legislature will vote this coming session on whether to extend the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant's license.
Nov. 1 Vermont Yankee Deadline Passes Wednesday, 11/04/09 8:39am - VPR News Legislative leaders say it will be "very difficult" to vote next year on whether Vermont Yankee's license should be extended after the nuclear plant's owners failed to meet a Nov. 1 deadline set by the Legislature to reach an agreement with the state's utility companies.
Storage Issue Settled At VT Yankee Monday, 11/02/09 8:04am - VPR News A nuclear waste storage issue at Vermont Yankee is closer to being settled.
Yankee Plant's Reliability Questioned Wednesday, 10/28/09 5:50pm - VPR News A legislative consultant says Vermont Yankee failed to disclose that some of its underground pipes have leaked radioactive material into the Connecticut River.
Shumlin: Yankee Plan Cound Hinder License Wednesday, 10/21/09 5:50pm - VPR News Senate President Peter Shumlin says the owner of Vermont Yankee, the Entergy Corporation, is taking actions that make it less likely the Legislature will vote to extend the plant's license beyond 2012.
State reaches deal with Vermont Yankee Friday, 10/09/09 8:02am - VPR News The Vermont Department of Public Service has reached an agreement with the owners of the Vermont Yankee on its proposal to spin off the nuclear power plant to a new company called Enexus.
Douglas: Yankee costs no concern of lawmakers Friday, 10/09/09 7:49am - VPR News Gov. Jim Douglas says lawmakers should not concern themselves with the cost of power from Vermont Yankee if the plant operates after 2012.
Forum addresses future of energy in Vermont Wednesday, 10/07/09 8:11am - VPR News It's uncertain if Vermont Yankee will meet a Nov. 1 deadline to offer future power contract to the state's utilities, setting up the prospect that the Legislature won't vote on the relicensing of the nuclear power plant this session.
NRC questions Yankee on decommissioning fund Tuesday, 09/29/09 5:50pm - VPR News The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission says Vermont Yankee has not come up with a plan to fully cover a shortfall in its decommissioning fund.
Lawmakers to hear about Health Department rule Tuesday, 09/15/09 8:34am - VPR News A long-simmering debate over radiation emitted by Vermont Yankee nuclear plant is coming to a head at the Vermont Statehouse.
Ruling on Vermont Yankee appeal postponed Wednesday, 09/09/09 9:08am - VPR News The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has postponed indefinitely a ruling on an appeal filed by a group opposed to the relicensing of Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant.
VT Yankee worker restricted after positive alcohol test Wednesday, 09/02/09 8:56am - VPR News A supervisor at Vermont Yankee nuclear plant has been barred from restricted areas of the plant after testing positive for alcohol.
Alternative power costs questioned by utilities Thursday, 08/27/09 8:53am - VPR News Advocates say the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant can be replaced with cheaper alternatives, primarily renewables and conservation. But the utility industry questions some of the conclusions, especially about the cost.
VT Yankee decommissioning fund improves Thursday, 08/20/09 8:23am - VPR News The decommissioning fund for Vermont Yankee is showing signs of improvement. Entergy Nuclear says the fund's shortfall has shrunk to 58-million-dollars.
Company failed to test Yankee storage casks Thursday, 08/13/09 7:04am - VPR News The company that built the containers used to hold high-level nuclear waste at Vermont Yankee failed to conduct a required test to insure the casks are safe.
State may fine Yankee for failure to monitor dry cask radiation Wednesday, 08/05/09 7:34am - VPR News State regulators may levy fines against Vermont Yankee for its failure to monitor radiation that comes from its high-level nuclear waste. The company was required to report the temperature and radiation from storage containers that hold spent nuclear fuel. State officials say they're concerned about the apparent violation.
Yankee says it failed to conduct additional radiation monitoring Friday, 07/31/09 6:19pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee says it failed to conduct additional radiation monitoring of its spent fuel storage as required by the state.
Lawmakers set deadline for Vermont Yankee power deal Tuesday, 07/28/09 5:50pm - VPR News Lawmakers say they need to know what Vermont Yankee will charge for electricity, before they vote on whether the plant should operate after 2012.
Shumlin says he’ll push for another decommissioning bill Thursday, 07/02/09 7:04am - VPR News Senate President Pro Tem Peter Shumlin says he'll push another bill next year that would force Vermont Yankee's owners to put aside money to close the plant.
Decommissioning Vermont Yankee Thursday, 06/25/09 Noon - Vermont Edition We step away from partisan politics of decommissioning Vermont Yankee to consider the physical and financial challenges of retiring a nuclear power plant. Also, the Vermont College of Fine Arts celebrates its first anniversary.
Vermont Yankee tries to repair leak Wednesday, 06/24/09 6:06am - VPR News Entergy Nuclear officials say power has been reduced at Vermont Yankee while technicians try to find and repair a leak of river water into the plant's cooling system.
Shumlin calls for expert to improve Vermont Yankee oversight Friday, 06/19/09 7:34am - VPR News A second water leak at Vermont Yankee has renewed calls for additional oversight of the plant. Senate President Peter Shumlin wants the Legislature to hire its own expert to make sure plant operators improve maintenance and inspection procedures.
Voices in the week's news: June 12, 2009 Friday, 06/12/09 12:50pm - VPR News Gas prices rose, Vermont Yankee leaked, the Democrats offered an olive branch and Vermont was found to be safe and green. These were some of the voices in the news this week.
Vermont Yankee reduces power to fix leak Monday, 06/08/09 5:59pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee needs to reduce power in order to fix a leak that allows water from the Connecticut River to enter the plant's condenser.
PSB studies Vermont Yankee re-licensing Monday, 06/01/09 5:32pm - VPR News The state Public Service Board is digging deep into Vermont Yankee's request to operate for another 20 years, past 2012.
Sorrell raises Vermont Yankee fuel storage worry Wednesday, 05/06/09 6:06am - VPR News Vermont has joined a federal lawsuit to get the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to take a deeper look at concerns surrounding nuclear plants' spent fuel pools.
Vermont Yankee delays emergency siren tests Tuesday, 05/05/09 8:04am - VPR News The Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in Vernon is delaying until Wednesday the test of 37 emergency sirens in three states.
More than 200 workers urge support for Vermont Yankee Tuesday, 05/05/09 6:06am - VPR News Employees of Vermont Yankee nuclear plant want state lawmakers to defeat a bill that would require the plant's owners to beef up its decommissioning fund.
Vermont Yankee plans emergency siren tests Monday, 05/04/09 6:06am - VPR News Sirens in the Vermont Yankee's emergency planning zone will sound this Tuesday - Wednesday is the rain date - as part of a regular test of the emergency notification system surrounding the Vernon reactor.
Nuclear activist protest Vermont Yankee Thursday, 04/30/09 7:34am - VPR News Several hundred nuclear activists came to Montpelier yesterday to voice their concerns about the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant.
Public hearing set for Vermont Yankee permit Monday, 04/27/09 6:34am - VPR News The public will get a chance to either speak out against or in favor of a plan to extend a Vermont nuclear power plant's operating permit.
At nuke plant hearing, activist throws compost Friday, 04/17/09 8:04am - VPR News A U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission hearing on the performance of Vermont Yankee nuclear plant took an unexpected turn when an anti-nuclear activist threw some compost at a plant official and then dropped a couple of handfuls on a table where regulators sat.
4 protesters arrested at Vt. stimulus workshop Tuesday, 03/31/09 6:34am - VPR News Four people who protested Gov. Jim Douglas over the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant and other issues Monday were arrested at an event the governor attended and charged with disorderly conduct, police said.
Feds allow further study of nuke fuel rods storage Tuesday, 03/24/09 6:34am - VPR News The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is agreeing to extend the relicensing period for two nuclear power plants in part to allow time to study the storage of spent fuel rods.
Vermont House to take up nuke decommissioning Monday, 03/23/09 6:34am - VPR News The Vermont House this week is expected to debate another effort to get the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant to shore up its decommissioning fund.
Engineer says Legislature should vote on nuke Friday, 03/20/09 6:06am - VPR News Vermont's former nuclear engineer says that lawmakers should vote this year on whether the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant should get a 20-year license extension beyond its current 2012 expiration date.
Vernon hires lobbyist for Vermont Yankee issues Thursday, 03/19/09 8:04am - VPR News The Town of Vernon is hiring a lobbyist to keep tabs on Statehouse action on the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
Lawmakers: Decommissioning tops Yankee agenda Monday, 03/16/09 6:34am - VPR News Vermont lawmakers say the most important Vermont Yankee nuclear plant issue on their agenda is planning for the plant's shut-down, not its re-licensing.
Morning Newscast: March 12, 2009 Thursday, 03/12/09 7:40am - VPR News The Douglas administration says it can avoid cutting 320 state jobs if the state workers' union agrees to additional pay and benefit cuts. State Attorney General William Sorrell says Vermont Yankee's zero carbon emissions claim is inaccurate.
VPR Evening News March 5th, 2009 Friday, 03/06/09 6:11pm - VPR News UVM Budget cuts could be postponed; A vote on Vt. Yankee’s future will have to wait until next year; Dartmouth students apologize for offensive e-mail; Phish begins new tour tonight; and commentator Willem Lange on why you need to wear clean underwear.
Town meetings getting underway Tuesday, 03/03/09 7:04am - VPR News Town Meeting days are here, with Vermont voters heading out to gymnasiums, town halls and school cafeterias to help decide how their local governments are run.
45 towns to vote on Vermont Yankee’s future Monday, 03/02/09 5:30pm - VPR News On Tuesday, at least 45 towns will consider the future of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant. The Town Meeting resolution urges the legislature to vote against Yankee's request to operate after its license expires in 2012.
VPR Evening News February 27th, 2009 Friday, 02/27/09 6:20pm - VPR News First installment of federal stimulus money arrives in Vermont; Peter Welch is concerned about remaining troop levels in Iraq; Plainfield to consider a hydroelectric dam; Disagreement over Vermont Yankee relicensing; Officials worried about used nuclear fuel stored at Vt. Yankee; and commentator Willem Lange catches Gold Fever.
Douglas thinks lawmakers can decide nuclear plant's future this year Friday, 02/27/09 6:34am - VPR News Gov. Jim Douglas says he thinks lawmakers can have their say on the future of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant this year, but issues relating to the plant's decommissioning fund should be left to regulators.
VPR Evening News February 24th, 2009 Tuesday, 02/24/09 6:14pm - VPR News Governor basks in national spotlight; Douglas Administration moving to authorize new federal stimulus money; Legislature can force Vt. Yankee to set aside decommissioning money; Fairpoint apologizes for transition problems; and commentator Ruth Page on beavers and clean water.
Radioactive water still leaking from Yankee pipe Wednesday, 02/18/09 8:03am - VPR News Engineers at the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant are still trying to stop a pipe from leaking slightly radioactive water.
Shumlin says lawmakers need energy contract before re-licensing vote Wednesday, 02/18/09 6:34am - VPR News Entergy Vermont Yankee has so far declined to offer utilities a power contract for electricity sold after 2012. That's when the plant's license expires. Yankee needs approval from the Legislature to operate for another 20 years.
Douglas administration says Yankee hasn’t made re-licensing case Thursday, 02/12/09 7:04am - VPR News The Douglas administration says the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant hasn't made the case that its license should be renewed.
VPR Evening News February 11th, 2009 Wednesday, 02/11/09 6:13pm - VPR News Patrick Leahy says the federal stimulus package is good news for the economy; Lawmakers want to set milk prices; Douglas Administration says Vt. Yankee hasn’t made the case for license renewal; and commentator Mary McCallum says the economic downturn is affecting the state’s prison population.
Vermont Yankee decommissioning fund shrinks again in February Wednesday, 02/11/09 6:06am - VPR News The fund set aside for the eventual dismantling of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant is continuing to shrink.
VPR Evening News February 5th, 2009 Thursday, 02/05/09 6:12pm - VPR News Lawmakers press Vt. Yankee to prove it has the money to dismantle the plant; South Burlington woman travels to Capitol Hill to testify on salmonella poisoning; Governor wants more budget cuts; Remembering former state senator George Little; and commentator Vic Henningsen is wondering when “compromise” disappeared from the U.S. House.
Entergy apologizes for mishaps at nuclear plant Monday, 02/02/09 6:34am - VPR News An Entergy Nuclear official says the company has replaced several employees following two recent leaks of radioactive water at the Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power plant.
Towns to vote on Vermont Yankee Friday, 01/30/09 6:34am - VPR News It's not up to them, but voters around Vermont will voice their opinions come Town Meeting Day on whether Vermont Yankee nuclear plant should stay open.
VPR Evening News January 16th, 2009 Friday, 01/16/09 6:41pm - VPR News Concerns about governor’s plan to freeze education spending; Environmentalists challenge the reliability of Vt. Yankee; New program encourages the use of helmets on ski slopes; and commentator Ken Davis on matching poetry with prose.
Vt. Yankee vote seen unlikely this year Friday, 01/16/09 6:34am - VPR News The Vermont Legislature might not decide this year if the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant will be able to operate after 2012, when its current license expires.
VPR Evening News January 8th, 2009 Thursday, 01/08/09 6:14pm - VPR News Governor proposes repeal on Acts 60 and 68 in his Inaugural Address; Reaction to governor’s proposal to freeze education spending; State Auditor sworn in by phone from Iraq; Second leak found at Vermont Yankee; Pace of home foreclosures slowing; Vt. Teddy Bear lays off 35; and commentator Willem Lange prepares for an Arctic journey.
Radioactive water leak found at Vermont Yankee Thursday, 01/08/09 7:04am - VPR News Entergy nuclear officials say the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant was undergoing a repair Wednesday after a broken valve was leaking radioactive water inside the nuclear plant.
VY spokesman: Talks on future power deal still on Monday, 01/05/09 6:34am - VPR News A Vermont Yankee nuclear plant official says negotiations on a future deal to sell power to the state's retail utilities remain under way, despite indications they may have reached an impasse this past week.
Vermont Yankee owner says utilities' expectations inappropriate Friday, 01/02/09 7:04am - VPR News The owners of Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant will not offer a new power deal to the state's utilities, saying the current one is sufficient.
VPR Evening News December 31st, 2008 Wednesday, 12/31/08 6:10pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee owners will not offer Vermont utilities a new deal on power; New commissioner appointed for Department of Corrections; Actor Matt Dillon stopped for speeding on I-91; and commentator Howard Coffin looks forward to looking back.
Vermont Yankee owners won't offer state's utilities new power deal Wednesday, 12/31/08 5:52pm - VPR News The owners of Vermont Yankee have decided not to offer Vermont utilities a new deal on power. Yankee faced a year-end deadline to come up with a new power contract. But the owners of the nuclear plant said the deal that's already in place is good enough for now.
Shumlin says state should consider moving radioactive waste out of Vernon Monday, 12/29/08 5:50pm - VPR News Senate President Peter Shumlin says he wants lawmakers to consider moving high level radioactive waste from southern Vermont to somewhere else in the state. Governor Jim Douglas says he doesn't see any need to move the waste because state and federal regulators have determined that the current site is a safe location.
Douglas: Vermont Yankee gets good grades in consultant's report Wednesday, 12/24/08 7:04am - VPR News Gov. Jim Douglas a new report by a state consultant points to the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant being able to operate reliably after its current license expires in 2012.
NRC: No 'turf war' over VY Friday, 12/12/08 6:34am - VPR News The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is disputing an industry critic's assertion that an appeal by NRC staff of a quasi-judicial review panel's determination on the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant represents a "turf war."
Decision on Vermont Yankee delayed Monday, 12/08/08 6:34am - VPR News The Legislature's anticipated vote on whether Vermont Yankee can keep operating after its current license expires in 2012 may not come this session.
Committee objects to rules on nuke radiation Thursday, 12/04/08 6:06am - VPR News A committee of the Vermont Legislature is formally objecting to changes in rules by the Health Department that allow the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant to release more radiation into the environment.
VPR Evening News November 24th, 2008 Monday, 11/24/08 6:12pm - VPR News Federal panel says Vermont Yankee should not operate after 2012 without more studies; Burton co-owners respond to criticism of snowboard graphics; Remembering Vt. Law School professor Michael Mello; and commentator Bill Mares on the pleasures of deer hunting.
Vt. Yankee decommissioning fund suffers big loss Wednesday, 11/19/08 6:34am - VPR News A state report says the fund set aside to pay for dismantling the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant when it shuts down took a big hit in October, losing more than $33 million.
Study predicts energy price increases, dirty air if Yankee closes Tuesday, 11/18/08 7:34am - VPR News But the study drew immediate criticism from environmentalists. They said the report used faulty methodology to skew the results.
Legislators want radiation rule rewritten Thursday, 11/13/08 7:34am - VPR News Vermont lawmakers want the state Department of Health to rewrite a rule on how radiation from Vermont Yankee is measured.
More cracks discovered in Vermont Yankee steam dryer Thursday, 11/13/08 6:34am - VPR News Inspectors have found 16 additional cracks in Vermont Yankee's steam dryer.
Anti-nuclear protest at state board gets rowdy Tuesday, 11/04/08 7:04am - VPR News Officials with the state board that regulates utilities say they'll lock their office doors from now on after an anti-nuclear protest grew rowdy.
Lawmakers concerned about nuke plant radiation Friday, 10/31/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News Vermont lawmakers are still worried about the state Department of Health's decision to change the way radiation from Vermont Yankee is measured.
VPR Evening News October 30th, 2008 Thursday, 10/30/08 6:07pm and 6:07pm - VPR News Record number of Vermonters voting early; Lawmakers again focus on Vt. Yankee decommissioning funds.; Researchers identify bat-killing fungus; and commentator Bill Mares on American foreign policy.
Vermont Yankee nuclear plant off line for refueling Tuesday, 10/21/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News Officials at the Vernon plant say operators disconnected from the New England electrical grid early Sunday morning.
Feds hold meeting to discuss nuclear plant's cooling towers Wednesday, 10/15/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News Officials from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission tried yesterday to reassure people attending a hearing in Brattleboro that recent problems with the cooling towers at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant are not symptomatic of the rest of the plant.
Financial turmoil could be bad for Entergy Corp. spinoff deal Tuesday, 10/14/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News A plan by Vermont Yankee nuclear plant's owner to spin off five nuclear reactors under a new company could be in jeopardy because of Wall Street's financial crisis.
Lieutenant Governor Brian Dubie Monday, 10/13/08 Noon - Vermont Edition Our series of interviews with the candidates for Vermont's top posts continues as host Jane Lindholm talks with Brian Dubie about his bid for a fourth term as Lieutenant Governor. We also take a look at electoral politics in Canada, and get an introduction to bow hunting.
VPR Evening News October 10th, 2008 Friday, 10/10/08 6:08pm and 6:08pm - VPR News Peter Welch supports government role in economic recovery; Intervale compost battle is over; Vermont woman at center of Supreme Court case; NRC scolding Vermont Yankee for inadequate cooling tower fix; Former slave honored in Poultney; and commentator Ruth Page on one of her favorite wildflowers.
VPR Evening News October 9th, 2008 Thursday, 10/09/08 6:07pm and 6:07pm - VPR News Vt. Yankee decommissioning fund becomes an issue in the governor's race; Vermont benefits from increase to LIHEAP funding; Scientists still trying to understand White Nose Syndrome; New Hampshire utility warns of carbon monoxide poisoning; and commentator Tom Slayton on Trap Day.
Committee criticizes health department on radiation measurements Thursday, 10/09/08 7:04am and 7:04am - VPR News A legislative committee is criticizing the Vermont Health Department for reworking the way it measures radiation being emitted by the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
NRC rejects complaints based on inspector reports Tuesday, 10/07/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission has dismissed calls by anti-nuclear groups for an overhaul of its review process before it finishes processing license renewal applications from Vermont Yankee and three other plants.
Mass. AG appeals ruling affecting Vt. Yankee Friday, 10/03/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News The Massachusetts attorney general is appealing the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's rejection of concerns about possible accidents or sabotage involving the spent radioactive fuel pools at the Pilgrim and Vermont Yankee nuclear plants.
Vermont Yankee emergency system temporarily disabled Thursday, 10/02/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News Plant officials say problems with a phone line that connects the plant to a radio transmitter caused the system to fail Tuesday evening.
VPR Evening News September 26th, 2008 Friday, 09/26/08 6:09pm and 6:09pm - VPR News Lt. Governor candidate Tom Costello says future of Vt. Yankee is a key campaign issue; Three nuclear experts named to Public Oversight Panel; Agency of Agriculture says a Highgate egg farm has violated its permit; UVM faculty ratifies new contract; Six N.Y. caves being closed to protect bats; and commentator Art Woolf says you shouldn't panic about the economy.
Morning Newscast: September 22, 2008 Monday, 09/22/08 7:41am and 7:41am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: Vermont and nine other northeastern states this week will conduct the nation's first carbon auction, taking the same approach that curbed lake-killing acid rain; The Vermont Yankee nuclear plant wants permission from the state to operate for another 20 years. And it wants the Public Service Board to make that decision by this spring...
Officials want Vermont Yankee decision by April 2009 Monday, 09/22/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News The Vermont Yankee nuclear plant wants permission from the state to operate for another 20 years. And it wants the Public Service Board to make that decision by this spring. Several groups involved in the case are asking for more time.
VPR Evening News September 19th, 2008 Friday, 09/19/08 6:08pm and 6:08pm - VPR News State wants the NRC to inspect Vt. Yankee; Sen. Sanders has financial advice for Congress; Progressive House candidate says Welch has misled voters on Iraq War funding; More Vermonters out of work; Filling salt sheds for winter; Plane lands on I-89; and commentator Willem Lange goes to a reunion. .
More problems in nuclear plant's cooling towers Friday, 09/19/08 8:04am and 8:04am - VPR News Inspectors have found more problems with Vermont Yankee's cooling towers.
VPR Evening News September 17th, 2008 Wednesday, 09/17/08 6:16pm and 6:16pm - VPR News More money found for winter fuel assistance; Vt. Yankee cooling system springs another leak; Remembering a Vermont America's Cup winner; and commentator Bill Seamans on financial news and campaign rhetoric..
Public hearing tonight in Vernon on nuke plant re-licensing Monday, 09/15/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News The state Public Service Board is holding a public hearing tonight on Vermont Yankee's bid for a 20-year license renewal.
Vermont Yankee hearings scheduled Friday, 09/05/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News Whether the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant should continue operating after 2012 will be the subject of two upcoming public hearings.
State officials lament nuclear panel member's death Thursday, 09/04/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News Vermont state officials are lamenting the death of a recently appointed member of a panel set up to oversee a special review of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
VPR Evening News September 2nd, 2008 Tuesday, 09/02/08 6:08pm and 6:08pm - VPR News Vermont could be on track to have statewide cell and Internet service; Consumer group accuses Vermont Yankee of deceptive advertising; Vermont Guard may not be needed in the Gulf Coast; Chairman of Vermont's Commission on Native American Affairs resigns; and commentator Charlie Nardozzi on planting garlic.
VPIRG calls for closing Vermont Yankee in 2012 Wednesday, 08/20/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News Supporters of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant are defending its operating record in the face of a call by a consumer and environmental group that it be shut down when its current license expires in 2012.
Morning Newscast: August 4, 2008 Monday, 08/04/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: Vermont lawmakers are investigating whether the state Health Department broke the law by changing its methods for measuring radiation emitted by the Vermont Yankee; The power may be coming back on at the Middlebury falls; Vermont tourism officials say it's rain and not high gas prices that has kept tourism down so far this summer...
Committee probes VY radiation reading changes Monday, 08/04/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News Vermont lawmakers are investigating whether the state Health Department broke the law by changing its methods for measuring radiation emitted by the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant without getting the approval of a legislative committee.
Entergy faces questions on financial health of spin-off company Thursday, 07/31/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News Federal regulators have told the Entergy Corporation that it can spin off Vermont Yankee and four other nuclear plants to a new company. But the proposal still needs approval in Vermont. And the company faced tough questions this week about its financial health. VPR's John Dillon reports.
Morning Newscast: July 29, 2008 Tuesday, 07/29/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission has given the green light for Entergy Corp. to spin off Vermont Yankee and four other nuclear plants to a newly created company; Green Mountain Power says it ultimately wants to rely more on environmentally friendly power - and less on nuclear; The wood harvesting program that state officials plan to expand is a multiyear initiative to help Vermonters heat their homes...
Pollina calls on Douglas to reverse Health Department on Yankee radiation measures Tuesday, 07/29/08 7:04am and 7:04am - VPR News Independent gubernatorial candidate Anthony Pollina is criticizing the Douglas administration for allowing more radioactivity to escape from the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
NRC OKs Entergy spinning off five nuclear plants Tuesday, 07/29/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News The federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission has given the green light for Entergy Corp. to spin off Vermont Yankee and four other nuclear plants to a newly created company.
Morning Newscast: July 28, 2008 Monday, 07/28/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: Key Vermont lawmakers and Douglas administration officials today are set to announce a series of steps designed to avert a crisis due to the high cost of heating fuel for next winter; Senator Bernie Sanders is vowing to continue fighting for increased federal home heating assistance despite a setback in the Senate; High gas prices mean the state and federal governments are collecting less money in transportation taxes...
Nuclear watchdog group hopes its role may help Monday, 07/28/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News A longtime activist with the New England Coalition says the nuclear watchdog group may not block the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant from winning a 20-year license extension.
VPR Evening News July 25th, 2008 Friday, 07/25/08 6:10pm and 6:10pm - VPR News The number of home foreclosures continues to climb; Federal heating oil assistance faces a test in the U.S. Senate; A wood-pellet mill is planned in North Troy; A Rutland non-profit will sell wood to low-income households; Increased radiation is detected near Vermont Yankee; Economic grant given to St. J. company; and commentator Deborah Doyle-Schectman on perennials.
Morning Newscast: July 25, 2008 Friday, 07/25/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: Representatives of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission faced some tough questioning from a panel of judges weighing a citizen group's challenge to the proposed relicensing of Vermont Yankee nuclear plant; This endless rain has left a lot of people cranky lately. But not the folks who run hydroelectric dams...
Federal panel's hearing in Newfane wraps up Friday, 07/25/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News Representatives of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission faced some tough questioning from a panel of judges weighing a citizen group's challenge to the proposed relicensing of Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
Morning Newscast: July 24, 2008 Thursday, 07/24/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: Vermont leads the nation in helping service members when they come home; Officials predict the power won't be as cheap as it is now in the near future; The first Vermont municipality to pass an ordinance restricting where sex offenders may live within its borders is expected to draw a legal challenge...
Public Service officials predict higher power prices in Vermont Thursday, 07/24/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News In the years ahead, Vermont is not expected to be as reliant on nuclear power from Vermont Yankee. And officials predict the power won't be as cheap as it is now. VPR's Susan Keese has more.
VPR Evening News July 22nd, 2008 Tuesday, 07/22/08 6:07pm and 6:07pm - VPR News Who’s running and who’s not this election season; Legislative leaders accuse the Douglas Administration of hindering a Vermont Yankee independent review; CCTA is looking to reduce service and raise fares; “Click It Or Ticket” program is working: and commentator Jay Parini on naming boats.
Morning Newscast: July 22, 2008 Tuesday, 07/22/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: It's unlikely the governor will call a special session in the wake of the Brooke Bennett case; Police are searching for about two dozen convicted sex offenders who couldn't be found during a recent sweep of Chittenden County; Progressive Party candidate Anthony Pollina says he's decided to run as an Independent candidate this fall...
Federal review panel opens hearing on Vermont Yankee Tuesday, 07/22/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News A federal panel is weighing an anti-nuclear group's challenge to the re-licensing of Vermont Yankee nuclear plant.
VPR Evening News July 18th, 2008 Friday, 07/18/08 6:08pm and 6:08pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee is criticized for poor management and lax state oversight; Senator Patrick Leahy is hopeful for better U.S. relations with Iran; Severe thunderstorms this afternoon caused damage and power outages; Heavy trucks will soon be banned from the Route 4 bridge in the Upper Valley; Quebec nationalists oppose Paul McCartney’s appearance at city’s anniversary celebration.
Morning Newscast: July 18, 2008 Friday, 07/18/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: Federal regulators have turned down the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant's plan to use some of the money from its decommissioning fund for management of the plant's nuclear waste; Congressman Peter Welch says Congress needs to end the political gridlock over rising energy prices and he'll back a bipartisan plan that includes additional drilling options for oil companies...
Morning Newscast: July 16, 2008 Wednesday, 07/16/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: Trouble continues at Vermont Yankee nuclear plant, and they've attracted the attention of federal and state regulators; A recent report by the Attorney General's office says drug companies are targeting key doctors in the state, in hopes of influencing the decisions other doctors make; Governor Jim Douglas is praising Vermont's first two-day sales tax holiday and has hinted he'd support making it an annual event...
Feds visit, state complains about loss of public confidence over Vermont Yankee Wednesday, 07/16/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News Trouble continues at Vermont Yankee nuclear plant, and they've attracted the attention of federal and state regulators.
Morning Newscast: July 15, 2008 Tuesday, 07/15/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: The Nuclear Regulatory Commission wants to know if repairs made last year contributed to the latest problem with Vermont Yankee's cooling towers; New Hampshire's congressional delegation is divided along party lines on President Bush's decision to lift an executive ban on offshore oil drilling...
Midday Newscast: July 14, 2008 Monday, 07/14/08 12:20pm and 12:20pm - VPR News Here are the top stories at noon: Lieutenant Governor Brian Dubie wants the governor to call a special legislative session to consider a series of legislative reforms; The Nuclear Regulator Commission is sending experts to investigate a cooling tower leak at Vermont Yankee; Progressive gubernatorial candidate Anthony Pollina is proposing a new credit card...
Morning Newscast: July 14, 2008 Monday, 07/14/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: Vermont Yankee nuclear plant remains at only 25 percent power today in the wake of discovery of problems in cooling towers and continued low flow of its water source -- the Connecticut River; With heating oil prices skyrocketing, many people are looking at alternative, less costly ways to heat their homes...
Vermont Yankee still at 25 percent power as repairs continue Monday, 07/14/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News Vermont Yankee nuclear plant remains at only 25 percent power today in the wake of discovery of problems in cooling towers and continued low flow of its water source -- the Connecticut River.
VPR Evening News July 11th, 2008 Friday, 07/11/08 6:17pm and 6:17pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee cuts its power output because of a cooling tower leak; A Bennington couple may be additionally compensated for land lost to a highway project; Barre considers a sex offender housing ordinance; A tax holiday in Vermont this weekend; and Burlington increases parking fees.
Midday Newscast: July 11, 2008 Friday, 07/11/08 12:15pm and 12:15pm - VPR News Here are the top stories at noon: Vermonters can take a holiday this weekend, at least if they want to avoid the state sales tax; The owners of Vermont Yankee are making the economic argument that what's good for the company is good for the state; Shelburne philanthropist Lois McClure says Vermont has to get ready to care for its aging population...
PSB begins investigation of Vermont Yankee future Friday, 07/11/08 8:04am and 8:04am - VPR News The Public Service Board is beginning the process that will decide whether to authorize the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant to operate until 2032.
VPR Evening News July 2nd, 2008 Wednesday, 07/02/08 6:29pm and 6:29pm - VPR News The Douglas Administration is criticizing Legislative choices for Vermont Yankee overseers; Green Mountain Power wins regulatory approval to reward customers who install solar generators; The Vermont State Treasurer is urging Vermonters to speak out on federal rules on credit card billing practices; A press conference is being held with updates in the case of Brooke Bennett; and commentator Art Woolf on economic interdependence.
Douglas signs Yankee reliability assessment bill Monday, 06/09/08 7:04am and 7:04am - VPR News Governor Jim Douglas has signed into law a bill calling for a comprehensive reliability assessment at the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant before lawmakers vote next year on whether the plant's license should be extended for 20 years beyond 2012.
Vermont Yankee to store low level waste on site Thursday, 06/05/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News The owner of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant says it has enough room to store low-level radioactive waste on its site in Vernon for 10 years.
Entergy's stance on decommissioning fund appears to change Thursday, 06/05/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News Vermont Yankee owner Entergy Nuclear says only its subsidiary, Entergy Nuclear Vermont Yankee, is responsible to pay the costs of decommissioning the plant when it eventually shuts down.
VPR Evening News May 30th, 2008 Friday, 05/30/08 6:09pm and 6:09pm - VPR News Questions are being raised about the financial stability of Vermont Yankee’s new owners; Secretary of State Deb Markowitz says she’d like to see the national political parties adopt a regional presidential primary system in 2012; A new law requires the installation of photoelectric smoke detectors in new homes; Copley Hospital and a nurses union reach agreement on a new-three year contract; and commentator Deborah Luskin on how she came to live in the Green Mountains.
Douglas administration raises questions about Entergy's corporate restructuring Friday, 05/30/08 5:50pm and 5:50pm - VPR News The Douglas Administration is raising questions about the financial stability of the new owners of the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant. The administration says the new company will be financially weak because it will have to borrow billions of dollars. But the new questions are prompting critics to ask why the governor vetoed a recent Vermont Yankee bill. The bill would have required the new owners to guarantee it has enough money set aside to decommission the plant.
Douglas administration rips Entergy reorganization plan Friday, 05/30/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News Three weeks after Gov. Jim Douglas vetoed legislation seeking guarantees behind the Vermont Yankee decommissioning fund, his administration is raising its own questions about the financial stability of a proposed new owner for the nuclear plant.
VPR Evening News May 29th, 2008 Thursday, 05/29/08 6:30pm and 6:30pm - VPR News Progressive Anthony Pollina is committed to his gubernatorial campaign; Officials are pleased with a test of an emergency evacuation plan in the towns around Vermont Yankee; A judge will decide next week whether a school shooting suspect can use an insanity defense; Woodbury College will develop mediation training for judges and lawyers in China; A pair of ospreys is raising young on a platform above Leffert’s Pond in Chittenden; and commentator Willem Lange on the legend of Mount Chocorua.
Interview: Mark Bosma on the Vermont Yankee evacuation drill Thursday, 05/29/08 7:49am and 7:49am - VPR News During a drill held last month there were reported problems with radios used to communicate between a field office and a staging area for buses used to take people out of the danger zone. Mark Bosma is the Public Information Officer for the Vermont Emergency Management Agency and says, while it wasn't perfection, things did go more smoothly this time around, when another drill was held yesterday.
Morning Newscast: May 28, 2008 Wednesday, 05/28/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: The Middlebury College community is reacting to the news that police have pulled the body of a man from below the falls in Otter Creek, the body they believe is missing student Nick Garza; A proposed housing project in Windsor has triggered debate over the role of environmental groups in the development review process...
Second evacuation drill planned after glitch last month Wednesday, 05/28/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News The state will be conducting a second school evacuation drill around the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant today, after a radio glitch caused problems with last month's drill.
Experts says replacing energy contracts will require changes in supply mix Thursday, 05/22/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News Vermont utilities rely on Hydro Quebec and Vermont Yankee for two-thirds of their power. But contracts for that electricity begin to expire in four years. Energy experts say replacing those contracts will force the state to consider some big changes in its mix of power supplies. VPR's Jane Lindholm reports.
Entergy nuclear spinoff plan meets resistance in NY Wednesday, 05/21/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News The owner of Vermont Yankee nuclear plant is running into opposition in New York state over its plan to spin off its northeastern nuclear division into a standalone company.
VPR Evening News May 19th, 2008 Monday, 05/19/08 6:11pm and 6:11pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee’s first attempt to move radioactive spent fuel ended in a mishap last week; Advocates of same-sex marriage say a decision by the California Supreme Court should help their cause in Vermont; The Vermont Supreme Court has given a green light to the company that wants to build a new set of power lines to serve northwestern Vermont; Vermont’s top Roman Catholic clergyman has written to parishioners around the state, following a $8.7 million dollar judgement against the Diocese of Burlington; Republican Karen Kerin has announced she is running for Attorney General; and commentator Philip Baruth on Cormac McCarthy’s “The Road”.
Electrical problem causes mishap as Vermont Yankee tries to move fuel Monday, 05/19/08 5:50pm and 5:50pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee's first attempt to move radioactive spent fuel ended in a mishap last week. An electrical relay on a crane failed and the fuel container slipped about four inches to the floor. State and federal regulators said no radiation was released, and that the public was not in danger.
No penalty for Vermont Yankee collapsed cooling tower Thursday, 05/08/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News The Vermont Yankee nuclear plant isn't going to be penalized for allowing a cooling tower to degrade so badly it collapsed last summer.
Douglas vetoes Vermont Yankee decommissioning bill Wednesday, 05/07/08 5:50pm and 5:50pm - VPR News Governor Jim Douglas has vetoed a bill that would have required Vermont Yankee to guarantee there's enough money to dismantle the nuclear plant when it shuts down. Douglas said the legislation would have forced Yankee to charge more for electricity. But Democrats pounced on the veto, and accused the governor of protecting Yankee's out-of-state owners.
VPR Evening News May 2nd, 2008 Friday, 05/02/08 6:29pm and 6:29pm - VPR News Congressional negotiators have agreed on a renewal of the farm bill that includes an expanded milk price support program; Negotiators in the Vermont House and Senate have reached agreement on next year’s budget, one of the final steps before adjournment; A provision that contains an exemption to the billboard ban draws criticism; Questions remain about whether Governor Douglas will sign legislation dealing with the Vermont Yankee decommissioning fund; A St. Johnsbury company has closed, putting 80 people out of work; Workers have repaired a gate on a Connecticut River hydroelectric dam; and commentator Mary McCallulm on one special graduation ceremony.
Shumlin says Democrats will make Yankee decommissioning a campaign issue Friday, 05/02/08 5:50pm and 5:50pm - VPR News One of the biggest issues still to be resolved at the Statehouse is whether or not Governor Jim Douglas is going to sign legislation dealing with the decommissioning fund for the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant.
Vermont Yankee may become part of “Enexus” Friday, 05/02/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News The Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in Vernon may soon have a new corporate name. Plant owner Entergy Nuclear has chosen the name Enexus Energy Corporation for Vermont Yankee and a number of other properties.
Douglas likely to veto decommissioning bill Wednesday, 04/30/08 6:34am and 6:34am - VPR News It looks likely that Governor Jim Douglas will veto a bill relating to the decommissioning of Vermont Yankee. The bill says that if Vermont Yankee is transferred to a new limited liability company, the new company has to prove it can cover the full cost of dismantling the plant.
Nuke plant's owners want to dip into decommissioning fund Monday, 04/28/08 7:04am and 7:04am - VPR News Vermont Yankee's owners want to use money from its decommissioning fund to pay for spent fuel storage instead, and that plans is drawing criticism from lawmakers.
VPR Evening News April 24, 2008 Thursday, 04/24/08 6pm and 6pm - VPR News Here are tonight's top stories: The Vermont House has approved legislation that backers hope will reduce drunken driving in Vermont; A quick-fix road repair program that Governor Jim Douglas called "Operation Smooth Ride" has run into some bumps in the Legislature; Governor Jim Douglas says Vermonters could pay higher electric rates because of a bill that requires Vermont Yankee to show it has enough money to decommission the plant; A bird's eye view of the Governor's weekly press conference...
Douglas warns Yankee bill could cause increase in rates Thursday, 04/24/08 5:50pm and 5:50pm - VPR News Governor Jim Douglas says Vermonters could pay higher electric rates because of a bill that requires Vermont Yankee to show it has enough money to decommission the plant. The decommissioning bill won final approval on Thursday in the House. It will soon head to the governor for his signature - or his veto.
Morning Newscast: April 24, 2008 Thursday, 04/24/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.: The House today overcame objections from the business community and approved a bill targeted at the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant; At least three Vermonters are among U.S. service members stranded in Kuwait even though they're supposed to be headed back from Iraq and Afghanistan.
VPR Evening News April 18th, 2008 Friday, 04/18/08 6:33pm and 6:33pm - VPR News The Legislature is moving ahead on a bill that requires the owners of Vermont Yankee to set aside more money to dismantle the plant; The process to cut next year’s budget by 25 million dollars is back on track at the Statehouse; The body of a missing kayaker has been found; and commentator Deborah Doyle-Schectman says one proposed budget-cutting measure doesn’t add up.
VPR Evening News April 16th, 2008 Wednesday, 04/16/08 6:10pm and 6:10pm - VPR News A list of nearly 40 million dollars in budget cuts was presented to key lawmakers and the Douglas Administration; The Senate Government Operations Committee rejects a proposed constitutional amendment creating a four year term for governor; Federal nuclear regulators have promised to work with the state on a safety inspection of Vermont Yankee; and commentator Alia Stavrand Woolf still feels connected to her Vermont roots.
Morning Newscast: April 10, 2008 Thursday, 04/10/08 7:40am and 7:40am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:40 a.m.: Vermont has avoided the most serious problems in the housing and credit markets, but a new report shows that real estate sales and prices have both declined over the winter; Senator Bernie Sanders is pushing for the extension of tax credits for renewable energy projects...
PSB hears from public about nuclear spinoff Thursday, 04/10/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News Residents from Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire are urging Vermont's Public Service Board to use caution as it considers Entergy Nuclear's proposal to spin off its five nuclear plants in the Northeast into a separate company.
Audit finds problems at nuclear parts supplier Thursday, 04/10/08 6:06am and 6:06am - VPR News The Nuclear Regulatory Commission says there's no indication there were any problems with parts that were not inspected properly before being sent to the Vermont Yankee nuclear plant in Vernon.
Vermont Yankee fails to find leak, returns to full power Friday, 04/04/08 7:05am and 7:05am - VPR News Vermont Yankee is returning to full power after technicians failed to find the source of a leak of Connecticut River water into the nuclear plant's cooling system.
NRC takes 32 years to respond to petition Wednesday, 04/02/08 6:43am and 6:43am - VPR News The First Amendment says people can petition the government for a redress of grievances, but what if the government takes 32 years to respond?
VPR Evening News March 31st, 2008 Monday, 03/31/08 6:10pm and 6:10pm - VPR News Vermont's Democratic super-delegates have different ideas about the factors they should consider in selecting their party's presidential nominee; Vermont Yankee is reducing its power output for several days so workers can fix a small leak; Eight people were injured when a tour bus slid off I-89 in Highgate; The commissioner of the Department of Fish and Wildlife says a recent increase in hunting bodes well for the department's finances; Green Mountain Power Corporation says its customers saw fewer power outages in 2007 than in previous years; Longtime Democratic activist Violet Coffin has died at the age of 87; and commentator Peter Gilbert on ESP.
Lawmakers push for independent review of Vermont Yankee Monday, 03/31/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News In the coming weeks, lawmakers will be voting on a plan to conduct an independent safety inspection of the Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Plant. Backers of the proposal say it's critical to complete the review before the plant can receive a 20-year license extension. But there's heated debate over the scope of this investigation. VPR's Bob Kinzel reports.
Nuclear Activist retires after 37 years with Coalition Thursday, 03/27/08 7:49am and 7:49am - VPR News For nearly 4 decades, Diana Sidebotham has watched and worried, but also acted. The 75-year old Sidebotham is the former head of the nuclear watchdog group The New England Coalition, the only organization currently bringing a legal challenge to the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant's efforts to keep running for another 20 years beyond its 2012 expiration date. Sidebotham speaks with VPR's Mitch Wertlieb about her retirement.
Vermont Yankee tells NRC it will cost $728 million to dismantle plant in 2012 Friday, 03/07/08 6:02pm and 6:02pm - VPR News Vermont Yankee has told federal regulators that it will cost 728 million dollars to dismantle the reactor if its shuts down in 2012. Yankee says if the plant continues to operate past that date, the decommissioning costs will go down slightly. VPR's John Dillon reports.
Senate committee wants oversight of Vermont Yankee Tuesday, 03/04/08 7:11am and 7:11am - VPR News A state Senate committee wants the Legislature to appoint a panel that would oversee an independent review of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant.
Feds to release final safety evaluation Monday Friday, 02/22/08 7:39am and 7:39am - VPR News Federal regulators are getting ready to issue their safety evaluation of Vermont Yankee's plan to stay open an extra 20 years.
Legislature to investigate Entergy’s corporate structure Thursday, 02/14/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News The legislature has hired a consultant to investigate the corporate structure of Entergy, the company that owns Vermont Yankee. Entergy wants to set up a new company that would own some of its nuclear power plants, including Vermont Yankee.
Morning Newscast: February 11, 2008 Monday, 02/11/08 7:45am and 7:45am - VPR News Here are the top stories at 7:30 a.m.
Legislature considers decommissioning fund Monday, 02/11/08 7:34am and 7:34am - VPR News During this legislative session, the Vermont Yankee power plant will be heavy on the minds of lawmakers. One big issue has to do with decommissioning. Lawmakers say they may require Yankee to set aside enough money to completely dismantle the plant when its license expires in 2012. VPR's John Dillon reports.

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