IAEA begins crucial power line repairs at Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has announced that repair crews have commenced restoring external power lines to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in southeastern Ukraine.

Director General Rafael Grossi said repair work at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) began after four weeks without electricity, following temporary local ceasefires. The IAEA described restoring external power as “critical for nuclear safety,” noting cooperation from both Russia and Ukraine.

External electricity to the ZNPP was cut on 23 September due to military actions, leaving the plant dependent on emergency diesel generators. The facility, Europe’s largest nuclear plant with six reactors, has been under Russian control since early in the 2022 invasion. Even with the reactors shut down, external power is essential to maintain cooling and prevent nuclear hazards.

Local ceasefires allowed safe access for repairs, reflecting the international community’s commitment to nuclear safety amid conflict. The IAEA continues to monitor the situation and coordinate with all parties to ensure the plant’s secure operation.

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