DTEK power plant destroyed: why burying equipment underground isn't viable

Russian missile strikes severely damaged multiple DTEK power stations, halting electricity production and prompting public criticism over inadequate protective measures. A journalist visited one destroyed facility to assess the damage and examine whether equipment could have been better shielded. At the station, workers described daily drone and missile threats, forcing them to work in short intervals between shelter runs. Engineers showed a rocket that pierced multiple reinforced concrete levels, while explaining that burying transformers underground is impractical due to cooling and ventilation requirements. Despite some protective structures saving partial equipment, one damaged component can disable the entire plant. Workers remained at their posts during attacks to mitigate consequences, though this latest assault destroyed equipment beyond saving. Staff vow to continue working once damage assessments are complete.