Russian-occupied Zaporizhia NPP disconnected from Ukraine's grid for over 10 days, running on diesel generators

Since August 20, the Zaporizhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), now under Russian occupation, remains disconnected from Ukraine's power grid. The plant continues to operate using diesel generators, a situation that has persisted for over ten days. This predicament is attributed to the security concerns in the region, according to a source familiar with the government's stance, who suggested that Russia is deliberately obstructing repairs to the power lines that link ZNPP to Ukraine's energy system.

This obstruction is seen by the source as a form of pressure and provocation aimed at forcing concessions in ongoing negotiations. Reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on August 29 highlight the issue of diesel fuel supply for the generators, noting that the last delivery was made in March, with reserves now only lasting approximately ten days.

However, the source clarified that Russia has the capability to supply fuel to the diesel generators, similar to its provision of fuel to military equipment at the ZNPP site. The plant's operator, Energoatom, has not commented on the situation, citing security concerns. Prior to the plant's occupation in March 2022, it had 10 external power lines at its disposal.

The IAEA has been actively negotiating the establishment of a localized ceasefire zone to facilitate the repair of the Ferosplavna-1 line, which has been disconnected 27 times since the plant's takeover in March 2022. Without immediate restoration of external power or additional diesel fuel deliveries, the IAEA predicts a power outage at the plant within around ten days.