ZNPP completely disconnected from Ukrainian grid due to actions of Russian military — Energoatom

For the first time in history, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant was completely disconnected from the power grid. The reason for this was the actions of the Russian occupiers, report the State Nuclear Regulatory Inspectorate and NPP operator Energoatom.

The last (fourth) communication line of the ZNPP with the Ukrainian grid, PL-750 kV "Dniprovska", was turned off twice. Three other lines were damaged earlier as a result of Russian shelling.

The reason for shutting down the line is a fire at the Zaporizhzhia TPP ash dumps, which is located next to the NPP. As a result, the 5th and 6th power units were disconnected from the grid. "In this way, the actions of the invaders caused a complete disconnection of the ZNPP from the power grid – the first in the history of the plant," noted Energoatom.

The NPP's own power supply needs are currently provided from the energy system of Ukraine through the communication line of the ZNPP — Zaporizhzhia TPP.

Nuclear energy expert Olha Kosharna explains that backup diesel generators are working at the station.

What is happening at the ZNPP?

Captured by the occupiers, the Zaporizhzhia NPP operates with the risk of violating radiation and fire safety standards. Russian troops regularly shell this critical facility. The Ukrainian staff of the station continues to work and make every effort to ensure nuclear and radiation safety, as well as to eliminate the consequences of damage.

Energoatom stressed that by firing at the plant itself and the lines that connect it to Ukraine's grid, Russians want to disconnect the ZNPP from it. And after that they will try to connect the station to the occupied Crimea.

The ZNPP operator points out that due to the disconnection of the ZNPP generators from the Ukrainian grid, they will not be able to be used for their own fuel cooling needs in the event of a power outage at the plant. This will increase the risks of a radiation disaster.

Ukraine stresses the need for an IAEA mission. The agency is preparing for the visit and plans to come to the station by September 5. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that the mission can quickly and safely get to the station in a legal way – through the government-controlled territory of Ukraine.