Summary
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in Ukraine, controlled by Russia since March 2022, has lost its external power for several days, raising safety concerns about possible overheating and meltdown. The plant relies on emergency diesel generators, but efforts are ongoing to restore power. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is communicating with both sides to address the power issue.
Key Facts
- The Zaporizhzhia plant is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe.
- It has experienced a record-long power outage during the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
- The plant has depended on emergency diesel generators for at least four days.
- The United Nations reported the last external power line was cut recently.
- Ukrainian officials claim Russian shelling caused the power cut, which Russia has not confirmed.
- Diesel reserves are available on-site to maintain plant operations temporarily.
- The IAEA is working with both Ukraine and Russia to restore external power.
- Before the war, the plant supplied about 20% of Ukraine's electricity.
