BWX Technologies Prepares for Nuclear Revival

In today's Evansville Courier-Press, there's a piece looking at how BWX Technologies is preparing for a resurgence in nuclear energy in America, and what it might mean for the future of the local employer:

The real opportunity for the plant would come with a revival of the nuclear power plant industry in the U.S., which Keene thinks may be in the works.

"We have been staying tuned in with various news sources," Keene said. "There is just a tremendous amount of energy that is needed as we (the nation) go forward," Keene said.

There is also a renewed emphasis on the U.S. becoming more energy independent, Keene said.

And there is continuing environmental concern over greenhouse emissions. These are emissions that are caused by burning coal, gas and other fossil fuels - emissions blamed for global warming. As a result, Keene said, nuclear power is now being seen as an "environmentally friendly alternative" to many other fuels.

For all of these reasons, "The general public is being more open to viable sources of energy - including nuclear energy," Keene said.

To position itself for an industry turnaround, BWX Technologies recently received nuclear accreditation from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). The accreditation means the company's Nuclear Equipment Division is now the only authorized U.S. vendor that can produce commercial nuclear-grade components in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Nuclear Codes and Standards.

Earlier this year, our CEO, Skip Bowman, gave a speech in Lynchburg, Virginia where he praised BWXT for obtaining the certification, known in the industry as the "N" stamp.

Technorati tags: Nuclear Energy, Nuclear Power, Energy, Technology, Electricity, Environment, BWX Technologies