Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant loses external power, switches to diesel generators
The Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in Ukraine lost external power Sunday after damage triggered an automatic shutdown of a power line, forcing reliance on emergency diesel generators for safety equipment. Radiation levels remained normal. The Ferosplavna line was disconnected by protection systems following damage, cutting off external supply. Emergency diesel generators were activated to power equipment needed to keep the facility safe, according to a statement from Russian-installed management on platform MAX. Staff monitored operational parameters. The incident highlights nuclear facilities' vulnerability to power disruptions during the conflict, as plants need electricity for monitoring systems even when reactors are offline. The management did not identify the damage cause, restoration timeline, or generator endurance. Attention now focuses on restoring external power and maintaining emergency systems.