Fukushima's positive impact [Spectral Lines]

Amid the stubbornly disappointing string of news reports emanating from Japan's Fukushima Dai-1 nuclear complex, there are signs that its melting nuclear fuel rods are inspiring some important and long-overdue developments in global power systems. Berlin is getting serious about upgrading the balkanized and inadequate transmission grid that represents a serious liability for Germany's renewable energy ambitions. China slows its nuclear building spree somewhat. Beijing reaffirmed its nuclear ambitions immediately after Japan's earthquake and tsunami. The Chinese are now also talking about doubling their goal for solar power for 2015, from 5 GW to 10 GW, in response to Fukushima.