Latest news with #PatrickO'Brien
Reuters
3 days ago
- Business
- Reuters
Holtec targets US-wide nuclear reactor fleet using learnings at Palisades
June 5 - Holtec International's plan to deploy two small modular reactors (SMRs) at the Palisades nuclear plant site in Michigan by 2030 shows how developers are looking to capitalize on soaring U.S. power demand and build on existing nuclear expertise to deploy the first wave of next-generation reactors. In a partnership with Hyundai Engineering & Construction, Holtec plans to build 10 GW of SMRs in North America through the 2030s, starting at Palisades. Holtec is restarting the decommissioned 800 MW Palisades nuclear power plant and plans to install two of its SMR-300 reactor units, based on existing light water reactor (LWR) technology, at the same facility. The cost of deploying SMRs at Palisades will be lower than on sites with no atomic presence, Patrick O'Brien, Holtec International's director of Government Affairs and Communications, told Reuters Events. Existing nuclear sites offer developers a range of power and logistics infrastructure and a skilled local workforce. A proven history of safe operations can help minimise local opposition. "In having environmental data, a trained and talented workforce, and the ability to interconnect to an established switchyard, the costs will be lowered," O'Brien said. Holtec could also site up to four SMR units at the Oyster Creek nuclear power site in New Jersey, where the company plans to decommission a shuttered 625 MW boiling water reactor by 2029, he added. MAP: US operational nuclear power plant sites Holtec sees major growth potential for SMRs in the Mountain West region. A 4 GW fleet of SMR-300s could be deployed, mainly in Utah and Wyoming in the 2030s, supported by ongoing testing at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and recently passed legislation supporting nuclear power development in Utah, the company said on May 1. 'The new legislation supports our vision to start the incubation of our SMR-300 program in Utah and expand it into the Mountain West,' Holtec Chief Strategy Officer Admiral Roegge said in a statement. Nuclear pioneers The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) estimates 60 to 95 GW of new nuclear capacity could be built at operating or recently retired nuclear power plant sites across the country, according to a study published by the DOE in September 2024. Malwina Qvist, director of the Nuclear Energy Program at the Clean Air Task Force (CATF), sees the potential for at least 80 to 100 GW at these sites. A project led by Canadian utility Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to deploy four GE Vernova Hitachi BWRX-300 SMRs at Ontario's Darlington nuclear power plant will also benefit from existing nuclear infrastructure and workforce. The first SMR at Darlington will be the "first of its kind" in the G7 group of wealthy nations, OPG said. CHART: Small modular reactor projects by country U.S. utility Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) recently submitted a construction permit application to the Nuclear Regulation Commission (NRC) for the BWRX-300 SMR model, eyeing deployment of a first unit at its Clinch River site by 2032. TVA could have a "second-mover advantage" following the planned deployment of the technology in Canada, according to Stephen Comello, senior vice president of Strategic Initiatives at the EFI Foundation. TVA has a collaboration agreement with OPG which it said facilitates sharing of experiences that could reduce the financial risks of innovating new technology while taking advantage of both companies' extensive nuclear energy experience. Strategies to overcome cost hurdles for new nuclear - download our webinar. TVA's Clinch River site could host up to four SMRs and the company also plans to evaluate other nuclear locations for locating small reactors, a TVA spokesperson told Reuters Events. DOE funds Holtec is one of a small group of developers seeking to win funds from the DOE in a funding round for LWR SMR technology (Gen III+). Other LWR-based SMR reactors include Westinghouse's AP300 and NuScale's SMR 3. In March, the Trump administration reissued a DOE tender for $900 million in federal funding to help de-risk deployment and removed a previous requirement for community engagement, underlining their support for new nuclear. In Tier 1 funding, the DOE will provide $800 million for up to two consortia towards the deployment of Gen III+ reactors. In Tier 2, $100 million will support additional Gen III+ SMR deployments by addressing design, licensing, supply chain, and site preparation issues. If selected, Holtec would use Tier 1 funding to help complete licensing work and some initial groundwork, O'Brien said. Tier 2 funding would go towards manufacturing upgrades to prepare for SMR construction and environmental analysis for the Oyster Creek facility, where the company could install up to four SMR-300s following the Palisades project. For exclusive nuclear insights, sign up to our newsletter. Uncertainty over the cost of the first SMR reactors is a key challenge for developers looking to deploy commercial-scale units and drive down investment risks. An official cost estimate announced this month for OPG's Darlington SMR project in Canada provides insight into the potential investments required to deploy LWR SMRs in the United States, according to Comello. Construction of the four BWRX-300 SMRs at Darlington is estimated at C$20.9 billion ($15.2 billion), according to a statement released by the Province of Ontario. The cost of the first SMR is estimated at C$6.1 billion and costs for systems and services standard to all four SMRs are estimated at C$1.6 billion. Costs are expected to decline with each subsequent unit as efficiencies are gained. "That is a good estimate for a first-of-a-kind light water reactor GEN-III SMR that has a sufficient design maturity, which I think is what Holtec should be on its way to," Comello said.
Sunday World
26-05-2025
- Sunday World
Bomb squad called after teen allegedly threw simulation grenade outside hotel
The Army bomb squad had to be called in after Patrick O'Brien (18) allegedly threw the device that went off with a 'loud bang' Patrick O'Brien is facing a jury trial after a judge ruled the case was too serious to be dealt with at district court level A young man has been accused of throwing a simulation grenade from a car outside a Dublin hotel, causing a bomb scare. The Army bomb squad had to be called in after Patrick O'Brien (18) allegedly threw the device that went off with a 'loud bang' as people passed, a court was told. He is facing a jury trial after a judge ruled the case was too serious to be dealt with at district court level. Judge Áine Clancy adjourned the case at Blanchardstown District Court for the preparation of a book of evidence. On examination the Army bomb squad found that the device was not viable. Photo: Stock image Mr O'Brien, of Peamount Road, Newcastle, Co Dublin, is charged with possession of a CO2 cartridge grenade intended to intimidate, and throwing it. Garda Sergeant Maria Callaghan said the DPP was consenting to the case being dealt with in the district court, subject to the issue of jurisdiction being considered. Judge Clancy asked for an outline of the prosecution's case so she could decide on the venue. Sgt Callaghan said the incident was alleged to have happened at the Ibis Hotel, Monastery Road, Clondalkin, on February 16 this year. It was alleged the accused had arrived at the hotel in a pick-up truck and was seen throwing an item from the vehicle. Patrick O'Brien is facing a jury trial after a judge ruled the case was too serious to be dealt with at district court level The object 'gave a loud bang' and witnesses who saw it said it resembled a grenade. It was found and the Army bomb disposal unit was called. When the item was looked at, it was thought it might be a grenade but following an examination it was deemed not to be a viable explosive device, the court heard. It was found to be a Valkan Thunder V2 CO2 simulation grenade. Judge Clancy asked whether people were around at the time. Sgt Callaghan said it happened at 5pm and there were witnesses who observed it being thrown, but nobody was harmed and there were 'no injuries or anything like that'. Such an offence carries a maximum prison sentence of five years on conviction on indictment The judge asked what size the simulation grenade was and viewed a photograph of it. Defence barrister Mark McMahon said it was 'the size of an apple'. Judge Clancy said she was refusing jurisdiction. This means the case will be sent for trial to the circuit court, which has greater potential sentencing powers. A book of evidence is required before Mr O'Brien can be sent forward and the judge adjourned the case to July 8. She extended the deadline for service of the book and remanded O'Brien on continuing bail. The accused has not yet entered a plea to the charge, which is under Section 9 (5) of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act and carries a maximum prison sentence of five years on conviction on indictment. Patrick O'Brien is facing a jury trial after a judge ruled the case was too serious to be dealt with at district court level News in 90 Seconds - May 26th 2025
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Insider Spends AU$101k Buying More Shares In Micro-X
Whilst it may not be a huge deal, we thought it was good to see that the Micro-X Limited (ASX:MX1) Independent Non Executive Chairman, Patrick O'Brien, recently bought AU$101k worth of stock, for AU$0.07 per share. That purchase might not be huge but it did increase their holding by 16%. Trump has pledged to "unleash" American oil and gas and these 15 US stocks have developments that are poised to benefit. In fact, the recent purchase by Patrick O'Brien was the biggest purchase of Micro-X shares made by an insider individual in the last twelve months, according to our records. So it's clear an insider wanted to buy, even at a higher price than the current share price (being AU$0.06). While their view may have changed since the purchase was made, this does at least suggest they have had confidence in the company's future. We always take careful note of the price insiders pay when purchasing shares. As a general rule, we feel more positive about a stock if insiders have bought shares at above current prices, because that suggests they viewed the stock as good value, even at a higher price. Micro-X insiders may have bought shares in the last year, but they didn't sell any. You can see a visual depiction of insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last 12 months, below. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below! View our latest analysis for Micro-X Micro-X is not the only stock insiders are buying. So take a peek at this free list of under-the-radar companies with insider buying. Looking at the total insider shareholdings in a company can help to inform your view of whether they are well aligned with common shareholders. I reckon it's a good sign if insiders own a significant number of shares in the company. From our data, it seems that Micro-X insiders own 5.5% of the company, worth about AU$2.2m. We do generally prefer see higher levels of insider ownership. It is good to see recent purchasing. We also take confidence from the longer term picture of insider transactions. But on the other hand, the company made a loss during the last year, which makes us a little cautious. We would certainly prefer see higher levels of insider ownership but analysis of the insider transactions suggests that Micro-X insiders are expecting a bright future. In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing Micro-X. Case in point: We've spotted 3 warning signs for Micro-X you should be aware of. Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions of direct interests only, but not derivative transactions or indirect interests. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Yahoo
Norfolk FBI arrests 3 people in child sex abuse nationwide crackdown
WASHINGTON (WAVY) – A five-day nationwide FBI initiative coordinated with all 55 FBI field offices to track down child sex predators. The FBI Norfolk Field Office arrested three people as part of 'Operation Restore Justice.' Among them is a suspect from Williamsburg, who was arrested after he allegedly threatened to sexually abuse a police officer's young family member. The FBI says the suspect also sent obscene images of the sexual abuse of children. Another Norfolk case involves an illegal immigrant from Mexico accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. 'Child sexual exploitation cases are among the most disturbing the FBI works,' said FBI Norfolk Acting Special Agent in Charge, Patrick O'Brien. 'It's why the work that we do in this field is so impactful. Operation Restore Justice showcases the commitment we have to stopping and holding accountable anyone who engages in sexual exploitation of children, as well as the threat of exploitation.' The Department of Justice announced the results of the coordinated effort on May 7. Last week alone, the FBI arrested 205 people and rescued 115 children across the country as part of Operation Restore Justice. 'The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,' said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. 'I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.' Some of the suspects arrested in this operation included people in positions of public trust, such as law enforcement, members of the military and teachers. In Minneapolis, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for producing sexual abuse material of a young child while wearing his uniforms. In Washington, D.C., a former MPD Police Officer previously convicted for sex trafficking was again arrested for doing the same thing. In Louisville, Kentucky, two teachers were charged in separate incidents involving alleged inappropriate communication and behavior with students. The crimes investigated by the FBI include the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. Hundreds of special agents, intel analysts and other FBI personnel were involved in bringing the offenders to justice. 'While the Bureau works relentlessly to investigate these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of prevention, community education and the FBI's never-ending pursuit of criminals who exploit our children,' the FBI said in a news release. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. The FBI partners with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on In further partnership and collaboration with NCMEC, the FBI launched the Endangered Child Alert Program (ECAP) in 2004 to identify individuals involved in the sexual abuse of children and the production of child sexual abuse material. To date, ECAP has identified 36 individuals. The FBI urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspect crime against a child to 911 and local law enforcement immediately, as well as the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), online at or by contacting your local FBI field office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to
Associated Press
06-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
LenderLogix Q1 2025 Homebuyer Intelligence Report Shows Early 2025 Mortgage Market Momentum, Stronger Loan Engagement
BUFFALO, N.Y., May 6, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — LenderLogix , a leading provider of mortgage point-of-sale and automation software for banks, credit unions, independent mortgage banks, and brokers, today announced the release of the Homebuyer Intelligence Report, a quarterly summary of insights into borrower behavior during the home-buying process based on data collected by the LenderLogix suite of tools. The latest report covers data collected during the pre-approval and borrower application process in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025. Pre-Approvals In Q1 2025, borrowers generated 37.8% more pre-approval letters through LenderLogix's QuickQual pre-approval platform over Q4 2024. The average number of pre-approved borrowers per loan officer increased from 23 in Q4 2024 to 26.5 in Q1 2025. The average pre-approval letter loan amount slightly increased from $322,532 in Q4 to $326,714 in Q1. The average sales price also increased from $376,436 to $381,820. The average down payment size shows a marginal increase from 14.3% in Q4 to 14.4%. Conventional loans remained the most popular loan type for pre-approved borrowers in Q1, though decreased marginally from 74.3% to 74.2% below the prior quarter. FHA pre-approvals decreased marginally from 19.1% to 19%. VA (4.5%) and USDA (1%) maintained their share from Q4 to Q1 2025. 'We're seeing strong early-season activity from homebuyers, which suggests renewed optimism despite ongoing affordability concerns,' said LenderLogix Co-Founder and CEO Patrick O'Brien. 'Borrowers are entering the market with intent, and their use of digital pre-approval tools reflects a growing emphasis on speed and preparation in today's competitive environment.' Borrower Conversion Of the borrowers using QuickQual in Q4 2024, the average number of days between pre-approval and loan submission decreased from 91 to 79.6 days in Q1. The most prolonged duration between pre-approval and application increased by fifty-nine days from 650 in Q4 to 709 in Q1. The conversion rate among borrowers from pre-approval to loan application increased slightly from 54% to 55% in Q1. Borrowers maintained an average of eight pre-approval letters before converting. In total, new applications through the LiteSpeed point-of-sale (POS) platform increased 54% from Q4 2024 to Q1 2025. 'Borrowers are clearly staying engaged throughout the early stages of the homebuying journey,' said O'Brien. 'We're seeing signs of increased urgency and lender responsiveness, both of which point to a more active purchase market and continued adaptation to borrower expectations.' Post-Application Engagement In Q1 2025, the number of documents uploaded through LiteSpeed grew 48% quarter-over-quarter. The number of newly created needs lists, including both online applications and those entered by loan officers, rose 37% in Q1. Successful verification of income and employment (VOIE) through POS improved significantly, increasing from 6.5% in Q4 to 15.5% in Q1. Verification of assets (VOA) also rose, climbing from 33.1% to 36.7% over the same period. 'This quarter's data points to meaningful improvements in post-application engagement,' O'Brien added. 'Increases in document uploads, Needs List creation, and verification success rates all contribute to stronger loan files, faster underwriting decisions, and deeper borrower engagement. These trends reflect how the right tools can streamline workflows while also improving loan quality and borrower experience.' Data from LenderLogix Homebuyer Intelligence Report is available to the industry free of charge. To learn more about LenderLogix, visit . About LenderLogix LenderLogix leverages the four decades of firsthand mortgage origination and real estate experience of its executive team to design customized software to meet the needs of today's mortgage lenders. The company's suite of products addresses the speed at which today's real estate market moves by delivering technology solutions that create agile and informed borrowers, build strong referral partners and ultimately save lenders time and money. For more information, visit NEWS SOURCE: LenderLogix ### MEDIA ONLY CONTACT: (not for publication online or in print) Lindsey Neal Depth for LenderLogix (404) 549-9282 [email protected] ### Keywords: Mortgage, Homebuyer Intelligence Report, LenderLogix, 2025 Mortgage Market Momentum, BUFFALO, N.Y. This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (LenderLogix) who is solely responsibile for its accuracy, by Send2Press® Newswire . Information is believed accurate but not guaranteed. Story ID: S2P125984 APNF0325A To view the original version, visit: © 2025 Send2Press® Newswire, a press release distribution service, Calif., USA. RIGHTS GRANTED FOR REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART BY ANY LEGITIMATE MEDIA OUTLET - SUCH AS NEWSPAPER, BROADCAST OR TRADE PERIODICAL. MAY NOT BE USED ON ANY NON-MEDIA WEBSITE PROMOTING PR OR MARKETING SERVICES OR CONTENT DEVELOPMENT. Disclaimer: This press release content was not created by nor issued by the Associated Press (AP). Content below is unrelated to this news story.
