Kyiv: The plant has been disconnected from external power since August 20 and is currently relying on emergency diesel generators to keep essential nuclear safety and cooling systems operating.
The IAEA warned that diesel fuel reserves at the facility are running low, raising concerns that the plant could face a complete loss of power within days unless external electricity is restored or additional fuel supplies reach the site.
Although the Zaporizhzhia plant is not currently generating electricity, a stable power supply remains critical to cooling nuclear material and maintaining key safety systems. The facility, Europe’s largest nuclear power station, has been under Russian control since the early stages of the war in Ukraine.
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According to the UN nuclear watchdog, Ukrainian technicians are expected to begin repairing damaged power lines later on Saturday once mines have been cleared from the surrounding area.
The temporary ceasefire is intended to provide a safe window for repair teams to work near the plant amid continued fighting in the region.
The IAEA has repeatedly warned about the risks posed by disruptions to off-site power at Zaporizhzhia, with the facility having relied on diesel generators on several occasions following damage to external transmission lines.
