Ukrainian nuclear plants forced to reduce reactor output due to Russian attacks – IAEA

Russia's massive airstrikes last Saturday caused major disruptions to Ukraine's power system and to the external electricity supply of three nuclear power plants, forcing reductions in reactor output and temporary shutdowns of several units.

IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said this in a statement seen by Ukrinform.

"These disruptions have resulted in fluctuating power outputs, temporary disconnections, and forced outages at some units. In several cases, units were taken off-line or operated at reduced capacity to maintain grid balance and prevent equipment damage following sudden protection actuations," Grossi said.

He noted that early on December 6, at 03:21, the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) suffered yet another loss of all off-site power – its 11th during the conflict – lasting for about half an hour when both of its remaining power lines were disconnected within 20 minutes of one another.

According to the IAEA, "the operating NPPs' nuclear safety systems have continued to function as intended, and emergency power supplies remain fully available."

"The IAEA teams based at Ukraine's nuclear sites continue to monitor conditions closely and maintain communication with operators," the statement said.

The agency also noted that as part of its ongoing efforts to help prevent a nuclear accident during the conflict, an IAEA team is this month visiting more than ten electrical substations, following recent attacks targeting key energy infrastructure.

"The 1-12 December mission is assessing the damage, reviewing repair efforts, and identifying practical steps to strengthen the resilience of off-site power supplies to the country's NPPs," the statement reads.

Photo: IAEA