Blows to the energy sector and risks for nuclear power plants: Chernobyl lost its external power supply after the Russian attack
20 January 15:22
Several Ukrainian electrical substations critical to nuclear safety were damaged by Russian strikes on Tuesday morning. The Chernobyl nuclear power plant has completely lost its external power supply.
This was reported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), citing the agency’s director general, Rafael Grossi, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
What happened
According to the IAEA, during the morning wave of attacks, electrical substations that ensure the stable operation of systems important for nuclear safety were damaged.
“The Chernobyl nuclear power plant has lost all external power supply, and power lines connecting other nuclear power plants have also been damaged,” said Rafael Grossi.
This concerns not only the Chernobyl NPP, but also the risks to the operation of the entire power supply system on which Ukrainian nuclear power plants depend.
IAEA response
The agency’s director general stressed that the IAEA is in constant contact with the Ukrainian side and is “actively monitoring developments” to assess the possible consequences for nuclear and radiation safety.
The agency does not specify which backup systems are currently in use at the Chernobyl NPP, but reminds that external power supply is a key element of the safe operation of nuclear infrastructure facilities.
Warning on the eve
The Ukrainian authorities warned in advance about the risks to energy facilities serving nuclear power plants. On the eve of the attack, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy Denys Shmyhal informed Rafael Grossi about Russia’s preparations for another massive attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
According to the Ukrainian side, the possible targets of the strikes could be the substations and networks that supply power to nuclear power plants.
The IAEA has repeatedly stated that attacks on energy infrastructure related to nuclear power plants pose a threat not only to Ukraine but also to regional and international security.
