Head of the International Atomic Energy Agency: “The Zaporizhia Nuclear Power Plant without external backup power for three months” | Ukraine and Russia war

The plant relies on one remaining operational 750 kV power line for external electricity. This is necessary for reaction cooling and other important safety functions, according to the IAEA. Prior to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the center had four outer streamlines.

“The general situation at the site remains precarious and potentially dangerous,” Grossi said. “The fragile electricity situation at the site remains a major concern.”

The International Atomic Energy Agency has established five principles. For example, Zaporizhia should not be used as a military base or storage facility for weapons such as tanks and artillery. The external power supply shall be secured and there shall be protection against tampering.

And the International Atomic Energy Agency says that if the 750-kV line fails, as it did on May 22, Europe’s largest nuclear power plant will have to rely on emergency diesel generators.

A team of IAEA experts on the scene reported that two land mine explosions were heard near the plant. They emphasize the tense situation. “There is currently a lot of speculation about imminent military action in the region,” the agency said.

Russian forces have occupied the six-reactor plant since March 2022. Grossi expects to visit the power plant soon, the third time during the war.

Read also: Workers of the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant warn of a ‘nuclear catastrophe bigger than Chernobyl’: how big are the risks really? “We are literally watching this day and night” (+)