Power Restored: Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Back on External Grid

Engineers have successfully repaired a damaged high-voltage line, restoring external power to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power station in Ukraine, a site currently under Russian control. This development was confirmed by the plant's Russian-installed management on Thursday.

Located in Europe's largest nuclear site, the plant was captured by Russian troops in the early weeks of the ongoing Ukraine war in 2022. Although not active in electricity production, the facility depends on external power to keep its nuclear fuel cool and prevent potential meltdowns. The safety of the site remains a significant concern for the International Atomic Energy Agency, as combat operations continue nearby. Both Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of attacking the facility, leading experts to scrutinize the latest power disruptions.

Without external electricity for 30 days, the plant had relied on backup diesel generators until Thursday's restoration. “Return of power (is a) key step for nuclear safety,” the IAEA stated on X. The management expressed gratitude to the IAEA for facilitating a local ceasefire, allowing repairs to proceed, and hopes for its continuation to address a second, long-standing repair.