Zaporizhzhia NPP may restart operations post-conflict

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) may gradually resume operations after fighting in the area stops. Experts predict the restart will be a complex but achievable process, according to Rafael Grossi, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This plant was taken over by Russian forces shortly after their invasion of Ukraine. Before the war, ZNPP supplied 20% of Ukraine’s electricity. All reactors are currently shut down due to nearby military conflicts, which pose risks of a potential disaster. Grossi mentioned that restarting the plant will proceed slowly, likely reactor by reactor. He estimated that bringing all six reactors back online could take over a year. The cooling systems face challenges, with a key water source depleted after the 2023 dam explosion. IAEA staff at the plant report ongoing security concerns and limited access due to military activities. It has been stated that operations are being controlled by Russia, though maintenance may be insufficient due to the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, discussions about U.S. involvement in managing the nuclear plant have emerged, although direct ownership has been denied. Russia claims that transferring the plant back to Ukraine is "impossible."