IAEA chief Rafael Grossi warned of the risk of a nuclear accident at the Zaporozhye nuclear power plant

For the first time in three years of war in Ukraine, the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant has been left without external power supply for more than a week and operates only on emergency diesel generators. IAEA chief Rafael Grossi warned of the risk of a nuclear accident.

“The largest nuclear power plant in Europe has been without external power for more than a week - this is unprecedented in the entire three and a half years of the war. I am in constant contact with both parties to ensure that the station is connected to the grid as quickly as possible. Although the plant is currently coping thanks to emergency diesel generators - the last line of defense, and while they are working there is no immediate threat, it is clear that from a nuclear safety point of view the situation is unstable. Neither side would benefit from a nuclear accident.

The current state of the reactors and spent fuel storage remains stable as long as emergency diesel generators provide sufficient power to perform safety and cooling functions. However, it is extremely important to restore external power. I urge both sides to work with us to allow these critical repairs to take place. As I have repeatedly stated, a nuclear accident is not in the interests of either party, and every effort must be made to prevent it.”

The IAEA, with reference to the administration of the Zaporizhia NPP, also writes that fuel reserves for operating generators will be enough for more than ten days, and regular supplies maintain this level.