Occupied ZNPP has been cut off from the power grid for six days, there is a risk of an accident

Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Photo: Facebook

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant occupied by Russian troops has been disconnected from the Ukrainian power grid for six days. Currently, the plant's security systems and other critical equipment are operating thanks to backup diesel generators.

This was stated by Oleh Korikov, Head of the SNRIU and Chief State Inspector for Nuclear and Radiation Safety of Ukraine.

He said that Russian troops ignore the basic principles of nuclear and radiation safety by shelling power lines. According to the SNRIU head, this could lead to a worst-case scenario.

«It is not known what diesel stocks remain at the plant site and how long the generators will be able to operate. The biggest risk concerns the cooling of irradiated nuclear fuel in all six reactors and spent fuel pools,» said Oleh Korikov.

He stressed that if the diesel fuel runs out and it is not possible to restore the connection to the Ukrainian power system, an accident with radiation consequences may occur not only for Ukraine but also for neighbouring European countries.

As reported earlier, NikVesti wrote that the IAEA adopted a resolution calling on Russia to return Zaporizhzhia NPP to Ukraine's control.