IAEA warns Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant running on single power line amid war risks
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency has warned that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is currently operating on its only remaining external power line, raising fresh safety concerns amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Plant relies on last functioning line
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said the facility lost its only backup line more than a week ago. According to an agency statement, the 330 kV Ferosplavna-1 backup line disconnected on Feb. 10.
As a result, the plant now depends entirely on the 750 kV Dniprovska off-site power line to maintain essential nuclear safety systems. Grossi stressed that this situation highlights the plant’s continued vulnerability and the ongoing risks to nuclear safety during the conflict.
Military activity cited as cause
Officials reported that military activity near the 330 kV switchyard, operated by the Zaporizhzhia Thermal Power Plant, caused the disconnection. Consequently, concerns have grown about the stability of power supplies to the nuclear facility.
Although IAEA personnel remain stationed at the site, they continue to request detailed information about the damage. In addition, they have sought access to the switchyard to assess the situation directly. However, authorities have denied access to this area for several years due to security restrictions.
Ceasefire proposal for repairs
Meanwhile, Grossi has contacted both Russia and Ukraine to propose a temporary ceasefire window. He aims to allow experts to assess the damage and carry out necessary repairs.
Previously, the IAEA helped secure four temporary ceasefire agreements. These arrangements enabled teams to complete five separate repairs on power lines connected to the plant.
Ongoing tensions around Europe’s largest nuclear plant
The Zaporizhzhia facility remains under Russian control after Moscow’s forces took it in March 2022. Since Sept. 1, 2022, IAEA personnel have maintained a continuous presence at the site.
As Europe’s largest nuclear power plant and one of the world’s ten biggest, the facility remains at the center of international concern. Both Moscow and Kyiv frequently accuse each other of launching attacks near the site, intensifying fears of a potential nuclear disaster.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE