The IAEA has warned of a threat to nuclear power plants due to strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Source: iaea.org
On November 17, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported a critical situation caused by Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. The strikes damaged substations that are essential for the stable operation of Khmelnytsky, Rivne, and South Ukrainian nuclear power plants. The disconnection of the main power lines resulted in a reduction in electricity production at the nuclear power plants.
Currently, only two of the nine active reactors are operating at full capacity, while the other six are forced to reduce their output to 40-90%. This creates additional pressure on the nuclear safety of the facilities, said IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi.
“The country’s energy infrastructure is extremely vulnerable, which directly affects nuclear safety,” Grossi emphasized.
The IAEA Director General emphasized the importance of stable energy supply for ensuring the safety of nuclear facilities, calling for compliance with the seven basic principles of nuclear safety, including ensuring reliable external power supply for NPPs.
