Humpback Whales Clog Nuclear Testing Site

By Admin
As the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant prepares for seismic testing off California's Central Coast, they've got some unexpected company. End...

 

As the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant prepares for seismic testing off California's Central Coast, they've got some unexpected company. Endangered humpback whales have been converging in the area, raising questions about the safety of such tests that could pose as a threat to marine life.

Starting in September, Pacific Gas & Electric Co. will fire high energy air guns dragged in an array behind a research vessel in order to determine the shoreline fault's deeper regions and produce a 3-D map. Though the research could provide invaluable information about a seismic active area in California post-Fukushima, others are unsure if frightening, deafening and killing sea life is worth it.

Read More in Energy Digital's Hottest Summer Issue

PG&E is already conducting studies in the area using less energy, but has warned fishermen to remain at least a mile away from its vessel to avoid entanglement with the equipment. The company has assured the public that “procedures have been implemented to monitor and protect marine mammals while the study is underway.”

We'll just have to see how the untold number of humpback whales converging in the area will respond. Meanwhile, they're making their presence known:

DOWNLOAD THE ENERGY DIGITAL IPAD APP

 

Share

Featured Articles

Inaugural trans-Atlantic flight highlights SAF importance

Virgin Atlantic’s first 100% SAF-powered flight from London to New York leads the way towards greener aviation fuels for long-haul journeys

IBM collaboration to boost fuel cell performance using GenAI

FuelCell Energy’s performance is set to be enhanced by Foundation Models, a form of GenAI developed by IBM, in support of transition to renewable energy

Schneider Electric exec shuffle boosts energy digitalisation

Number one sustainable company, as voted by Sustainability Magazine, Schneider Electric appointed leaders to manage the digitalisation of energy solutions

ManpowerGroup initiative aligns talent with renewable energy

Renewable Energy

Rolls-Royce develops SMRs for a low-carbon energy future

Sustainability

Chevron’s hydrogen investment and green energy endeavours

Renewable Energy