Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Cut Off From Grid, Relies on Diesel Backup Power

The last working connection to the power grid has been cut after being damaged in an attack, according to the plant's management.

Its six reactors and fuel pools are now cooled using diesel-powered backup generators. The UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has previously warned that the diesel could run out, leaving the plant without power.

The nuclear power plant is on the occupied side of the Dnieper River, which is also the front line in the war. The reactors were shut down in 2022.

Power for vital cooling has been supplied from outside the plant via two power lines that also pass through Ukrainian-controlled territory. The second line was cut in March.