Hey, news buffs! Imagine Europe’s biggest nuclear plant—Zaporizhzhia—running on diesel generators like a festival using backup speakers. 🎧 Russia says a clash in southern Ukraine cut its external line, forcing the station to juggle emergency power just to keep things cool.
"The situation at the station is under control," says Yevgeniya Yashina, the plant’s spokeswoman. Radiation levels are normal, but teams are working overtime to keep those diesel engines humming. ⏱️🔋
Russia’s state news agency RIA quotes the plant’s Russian-installed management saying backup power is sufficient, but the Dneprovskaya line can’t be fixed due to Ukrainian shelling. The Kremlin says it’s unfair for Ukraine to blame Moscow—after all, Russia controls the site. Ukraine, in turn, accuses Russia of preventing repairs.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warns that without external electricity, cooling water can’t circulate through reactors and spent fuel. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi stressed: "It is extremely important that offsite power is restored."
All six Soviet-designed VVER-1000 V-320 reactors are shut down, keeping the plant stable—until the diesel stops. If generators fail, nuclear fuel could heat up, risking a meltdown. 😱
For young pros and entrepreneurs, it’s a stark reminder of energy vulnerabilities in conflict zones. Students and researchers: this is a live case study of nuclear safety under stress. And for the diaspora, it’s a poignant chapter in your region’s story. Stay tuned as we watch if Zaporizhzhia can switch back to its main grid. 🌍💡
Reference(s):
Russia says external power needed for Ukraine nuclear power plant
cgtn.com
