Switchgear damaged at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, operation risks radiation safety violations - Energoatom

As of the morning of August 15, there is a heightened operational risk of radiation and fire safety standards being violated at Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (NPP), due to constant Russian shelling

This is reported by Energoatom.

It is reported that as a result of the Russian shelling, the nitrogen-oxygen station, the combined auxiliary building, and the pumping station for domestic sewage were seriously damaged.  In addition, the 750 kV open switchgear (VRP-750) was damaged.

As reported by Energoatom, the periodic shelling of the ZNPP by Russian troops with multiple rocket launchers since last week caused a serious risk for the safe operation of the plant.

Thus, as a result of the shelling of the station, one of the power units activated emergency protection - one of the three working power units is now disconnected.

Russian forces also fired at the fire station located outside the territory of the ZaNPP. The fire station is designed to protect the station from fires and extinguish them in case of emergencies.

As reported by Energoatom, there are also risks of hydrogen leakage and sputtering of radioactive substances. In addition, the level of fire danger is high.

Also, as a result of the shelling, three radiation monitoring sensors were damaged around the SSVYAP ZNPP site.

Energoatom reminds that the Zaporizhzhya NPP is still occupied and controlled by Russian troops.  At the same time, the Ukrainian staff of the station continues to work and make every effort to ensure nuclear and radiation safety, as well as eliminate the consequences of damage.

Currently, the ZNPP continues to function and produce electricity for the needs of the Ukrainian energy system.